Rising STAR and STAR winners

TAHLEQUAH — Two Northeastern State University employees were named the 2022 STAR and Rising STAR recipients for their outstanding service to the institution.

The STAR award honors an NSU employee who demonstrates devoted service, great attitude, teamwork and reliability and has been working for the institution for two or more years.

Marcey Mitcham, a 2010 and 2016 alumna of NSU, was named this year’s STAR recipient. Mitcham started her career at NSU in 2012 as an administrative assistant and currently works as coordinator of academic testing.

Her service to the university includes serving on several committees including the NSU Staff Council from 2015-2019. A veteran of the U.S. Army and Reserves, Mitcham is known to always go above and beyond not only in her job, but in helping with and coordinating numerous activities at NSU that are outside her job requirements. This illustrates her integrity, collaboration, creativity, leadership, excellence, communication and desire to always help others.

The Rising STAR award honors an employee who’s been working between six months and two years who demonstrates devoted service, great attitude, teamwork and reliability.

Jessica Secratt, a 2010 alumna, was named the 2022 Rising STAR recipient. Secratt started her career at NSU as a proposal development specialist and quickly moved into her current role as director of Research and Sponsored Programs.

Secratt’s attitude of willingness, motivation to help others and initiative are aspects of her service to others. She truly takes her service to the university and to others to another level through her persistence, work ethic, consistency and ability to work effectively with others.

Winners received a $150 check, a gift from Barnes & Noble, annual parking permits and a STAR award trophy. Both recipients were honored during the 2022 Employee Recognition Reception and Presentation in April.