At KSU, we believe that exceptional performance deserves a standing ovation, and that’s where the True Owl awards program takes center stage! This lively initiative is all about celebrating the extraordinary efforts of our dedicated staff who soar above and beyond in their roles. Whether it’s dazzling teamwork, innovative problem-solving, or simply going the extra mile, True Owls are our campus superstars—and we’re rolling out the red carpet to honor their outstanding contributions!
To receive an incentive payment, the individual must be a current employee of the department at the time of payment. Once an employee has received an award, he/she will not be eligible to receive the same award during the same fiscal year.
We invite our team members to recognize and celebrate the outstanding contributions of their colleagues through the True Owl Awards nomination process. This is an opportunity to highlight those who embody KSU’s core values and have made significant impacts within their departments and the university. Nominate deserving team members in categories such as the True Owl Award, Wise Owl Award, Collaborative Owl Award, Student Inspired Owl Award, Ambassador Owl Award, and Owlet Award. Check out individual nomination guidelines for each award below. Submit your nomination form along with letters of support by April 11, 2025, to trueowls@kennesaw.edu.
nominate an owlIntroducing the True Owl Award, Wise Owl Award, Collaborative Owl Award, Student Inspired Owl Award, Ambassador Owl Award, and Owlet Award—each of these prestigious accolades honors exceptional employees who have made significant contributions to our department. From recognizing those who embody our core values with unwavering dedication and excellence, to celebrating visionary leadership, teamwork, student mentorship, brand ambassadorship, and impactful newcomers, these awards highlight the outstanding achievements and commitment of our staff.
Together, they showcase the diverse ways in which our team members drive innovation, foster collaboration, and inspire positive change within our community.
The True Owl Award
The True Owl Award is the pinnacle of employee recognition within our department, celebrating individuals who exemplify our core values with unwavering dedication and excellence. Named after the wise and perceptive owl, this prestigious accolade honors the employee who embodies integrity, teamwork, innovation, and a commitment to excellence in all they do. Recipients of The True Owl Award serve as beacons of inspiration, setting the standard for professionalism, leadership, and passion for our shared mission. This award symbolizes not only outstanding performance but also a deep-rooted alignment with our department's ethos, making it the highest honor a team member can achieve.
This award will be bestowed upon an employee from AAF: Student Success, AAF: Data Strategy, ESE: Enrollment Services, ESE: Office of the Registrar, Office of Global Education who meets the following criteria:
Additionally, the preferred candidate should exhibit the following qualities:
In addition to completing the nomination form, please include at least two letters of support.
Recommendations for Letters of Support:
You have the option to submit a single letter or multiple letters composed by groups of supporters. Letters of support should furnish evidence demonstrating that the candidate meets or surpasses the qualifications detailed above.
The recipient will be recognized by the Vice Provost at the annual meeting and will receive a plaque and $250.00 added to their paycheck.
*Incentive payments will be processed through payroll. Payments are included and taxed as salary in the pay period issued.
The Wise Owl Award
The Wise Owl Award recognizes the visionary employees who have propelled our unit forward with their exceptional problem-solving abilities and commitment to excellence. Named after the wise and insightful owl, this prestigious accolade honors individuals who have demonstrated remarkable leadership and innovation, drove positive change, and achieved outstanding results. Recipients of The Wise Owl Award embody the spirit of forward-thinking and strategic decision-making, serving as catalysts for progress and inspiring their colleagues to reach new heights. This award celebrates not only their accomplishments but also their dedication to finding the best solutions and pushing the boundaries of what's possible within our unit.
This award will be bestowed upon an employee from AAF: Student Success, AAF: Data Strategy, ESE: Enrollment Services, ESE: Office of the Registrar, Office of Global Education who meets the following criteria:
Additionally, the preferred candidate should exhibit the following qualities:
In addition to completing the nomination form, please include at least one letter of support.
Recommendations for Letters of Support:
Letters of support must provide evidence the candidate meets or exceeds the above qualifications.
The recipient will be recognized by the Vice Provost at the annual meeting and will receive a plaque and $100.00 added to their paycheck.
*Incentive payments will be processed through payroll. Payments are included and taxed as salary in the pay period issued.
The Collaborative Owl Award
The Collaborative Owl Award celebrates individuals who exemplify the power of teamwork and collaboration, both within Kennesaw State University and beyond its borders. Named after the cooperative and social nature of the owl, this esteemed recognition honors those who have forged meaningful partnerships and fostered synergies with external organizations, as well as colleagues across campus. Recipients of The Collaborative Owl Award embody the spirit of cooperation, innovation, and inclusivity, leveraging diverse perspectives to achieve shared goals and advance our collective mission. This award not only acknowledges their outstanding efforts in building bridges and cultivating relationships but also underscores the profound impact of collaboration in driving positive change and enhancing our university's reputation as a collaborative leader in academia and beyond.
This award will be bestowed upon an employee from AAF: Student Success, AAF: Data Strategy, ESE: Enrollment Services, ESE: Office of the Registrar, Office of Global Education who meets the following criteria:
Additionally, the preferred candidate should exhibit the following qualities:
In addition to completing the nomination form, please include at least one letter of support.
Recommendations for Letters of Support:
Letters of support must provide evidence the candidate meets or exceeds the above qualifications.
The recipient will be recognized by the Vice Provost at the annual meeting and will receive a plaque and $100.00 added to their paycheck.
*Incentive payments will be processed through payroll. Payments are included and taxed as salary in the pay period issued.
The Ambassador Owl Award
The Ambassador Owl Award recognizes individuals who embody and amplify the values, culture, and brand of our unit with exceptional dedication and enthusiasm. Named after the symbol of wisdom and guidance, this esteemed accolade celebrates employees who serve as exemplary ambassadors, both internally and externally, promoting a positive and inclusive atmosphere. Recipients of The Ambassador Owl Award demonstrate outstanding communication skills, professionalism, and a deep commitment to fostering a strong sense of community and belonging. Through their actions and interactions, they uphold the reputation and integrity of our unit, leaving a lasting impression on all those they encounter. This award not only acknowledges their contributions to our unit's brand but also celebrates their role in cultivating a culture of excellence, collaboration, and mutual respect.
This award will be bestowed upon an employee from AAF: Student Success, AAF: Data Strategy, ESE: Enrollment Services, ESE: Office of the Registrar, Office of Global Education who meets the following criteria:
Additionally, the preferred candidate should exhibit the following qualities:
In addition to completing the nomination form, please include at least one letter of support.
Recommendations for Letters of Support:
Letters of support must provide evidence the candidate meets or exceeds the above qualifications.
The recipient will be recognized by the Vice Provost at the annual meeting and will receive a plaque and $100.00 added to their paycheck.
*Incentive payments will be processed through payroll. Payments are included and taxed as salary in the pay period issued.
The Owlet Award
The Owlet Award is a special recognition for new employees who have been with the department for less than one year and have already made a significant impact. This award highlights individuals who, despite their short tenure, have contributed greatly to our mission of excellence and innovation at Kennesaw State University. Named after the symbol of wisdom and growth, the Owlet Award honors those whose fresh perspectives and initiatives have positively transformed our institution. These individuals embody the spirit of visionary leadership, dedication, and determination, inspiring positive change and laying the groundwork for future success. Recipients of the Owlet Award have demonstrated remarkable commitment and innovation, playing a crucial role in driving KSU toward its goals. Their contributions are not only outstanding but also serve as a testament to their profound influence on advancing the university’s mission and vision.
This award will be bestowed upon an employee from AAF: Student Success, AAF: Data Strategy, ESE: Enrollment Services, ESE: Office of the Registrar, Office of Global Education who meets the following criteria:
Additionally, the preferred candidate should exhibit the following qualities:
In addition to completing the nomination form, please include at least one letter of support.
Recommendations for Letters of Support:
Letters of support must provide evidence the candidate meets or exceeds the above qualifications.
The recipient will be recognized by the Vice Provost at the annual meeting and will receive a plaque and $100.00 added to their paycheck.
*Incentive payments will be processed through payroll. Payments are included and taxed as salary in the pay period issued.