SDSU student affairs professionals recognized with distinguished contributor award from Chi Sigma Alpha

Three South Dakota State University professionals were recently honored with the Distinguished Contributor Award from Chi Sigma Alpha International Honor Society for Student Affairs in recognition of their outstanding contributions, leadership and commitment to student success.

The SDSU chapter of Chi Sigma Alpha selected Jody Owen, senior director of the Student Success and Opportunity Center; Kayte Haggerty, advisor in the Ness School of Management and Economics; and Jessica Lewis, advising and recruitment coordinator in the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, as recipients of this distinguished honor. Each recipient has demonstrated a sustained commitment to supporting students, advancing academic success initiatives and strengthening the university community through their service.

Owen and Haggerty have each dedicated more than 20 years of service to SDSU, while Lewis has contributed more than 15 years of service to the university. Throughout their careers, they have played vital roles in helping students navigate their academic journeys, connect with campus resources and achieve their educational goals.

In addition to their service to students, Owen, Haggerty and Lewis were instrumental in envisioning the development of the Academic Advising Certificate at SDSU. Nearly a decade ago, they identified the need for a credential focused on preparing professionals in the field of academic advising and shared their vision with Katelyn Romsa, associate professor of counseling and development at SDSU. Their collaboration helped lay the foundation for the certificate program, which continues to support the professional growth of current and future higher education professionals.

Since its creation, more than 40 students have pursued the Academic Advising Certificate credential, developing knowledge and skills in advising practices, student success strategies and the essential competencies needed to support students in higher education. The program reflects SDSU’s ongoing commitment to preparing professionals who strengthen student engagement, persistence and achievement.

The Academic Advising Certificate also aligns closely with SDSU's mission as the state’s land-grant institution. Through education, service and community engagement, SDSU prepares students and professionals who contribute to the success of individuals, communities and the state. By developing highly trained academic advisors and student success professionals, the certificate supports SDSU’s commitment to student-centered learning, access, opportunity and retention. The program extends the university’s land-grant mission by equipping professionals with the knowledge and skills to help students navigate higher education, achieve their goals and contribute to their communities.

The Distinguished Contributor Award is presented by Chi Sigma Alpha to recognize individuals who exemplify excellence in the student affairs profession through leadership, service, mentorship and dedication to student development. Chi Sigma Alpha is an international honor society comprised of graduate students, alumni, faculty, and student affairs professionals committed to promoting and recognizing excellence in academics, research and service to the student affairs profession.

The award was presented by leaders of the SDSU chapter of Chi Sigma Alpha, including Sydnie Peters, co-president of Chi Sigma Alpha and current graduate student in the administration of student affairs and academic advising certificate program; Jessica Spulak, co-president of Chi Sigma Alpha, who recently earned her master’s degree in administration of student affairs and completed both the Academic Advising Certificate and Athletic Academic Advising Certificate; and Romsa, faculty advisor for Chi Sigma Alpha, and leader of the Administration of Student Affairs, College Counseling, Academic Advising and Athletic Academic Advising certificate programs.

“Recognizing professionals who have dedicated their careers to student success reflects the mission and values of Chi Sigma Alpha,” the SDSU chapter leadership said. “Jody, Kayte and Jessica represent the impact that committed advisors and student affairs professionals have on students, colleagues and the broader university community.”

Academic advisors serve a critical role in student persistence and retention by helping students develop academic plans, identify goals, access resources and build connections with their institution. Through programs like the Academic Advising Certificate and organizations such as Chi Sigma Alpha, SDSU continues to support the professional development of those dedicated to student achievement.