At Washington State University, student employees are more than just help around the office—they’re innovators, leaders, collaborators, and community builders. Each year, the Pullman Academic Success & Career Center (ASCC) proudly recognizes these hardworking students through the Student Employee of the Year (SEOTY) awards. This is your chance to spotlight the Cougs who go above and beyond!
What Is the SEOTY Award?
SEOTY is WSU’s way of celebrating the exceptional contributions of student employees across campus. Whether they’re juggling classes, work responsibilities, and leadership roles—or bringing creative problem-solving and heart to their jobs—these students deserve recognition for their impact.
Plus, the category winners get submitted to the National Student Employment Association’s national SEOTY program, which honors outstanding student workers across the country each spring.
Key Dates & How to Nominate
The Nomination Period this year is from January 5–January 30. The nomination form is now live and taking your submissions!
To nominate someone, simply:
- Fill out the online nomination form on the ASCC page.
- Write a 1–2 page nomination letter that tells the story of how the nominee excels in one (and only one) of the recognized categories (listed below). Bonus points if you include why the nominee should be chosen for the Overall Student Employee of the Year!
- Submit one form per nominee if you’re nominating more than one superstar.
Categories & Selection Process
✨ Leadership
✨ Community Service
✨ Social Impact & Belonging
✨ Critical Thinking
✨ Technology & Innovation
✨ Graduate Student Employee of the Year
These categories highlight the incredible range of contributions Cougar student workers make every day. After nominations close, a dedicated review committee evaluates submissions and votes on the winners for reach category. After all category winners are chosen, the Overall Student Employee of the Year Award is chosen from the category winners. Winners are announced during National Student Employment Week (April 13–17) and celebrated at WSU’s annual SEOTY Awards Ceremony on April 14.
Why This Matters
Student employment is more than a paycheck—it’s professional development, confidence building, and a space to innovate. These student workers are the glue that keeps departments running and the spark that drives campus forward. Nomination is a meaningful way to say, “We see you. We appreciate you. Your contributions matter.”
So take a moment. Think about the student employee who has impressed you, inspired you, or simply made your day better. Put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard) and nominate them for SEOTY 2026. You’ll help elevate their story—and celebrate the power of Cougar talent.
Submit your nomination today through the official form on the ASCC SEOTY webpage—and be part of recognizing the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and community builders.
If you have any questions, please email studentjobs@wsu.edu.
Go Cougs!
