Innovative Programming of the Year Award Winner – Rachel Lucking

What do you love most about working at Framingham State University?

I love working at Framingham State, and always have, because of our students. They are hard working and (most) appreciate the value and privilege of going to college. Additionally, as a professional, I’ve been given so many opportunities to be innovative, creative, and always feel supported by my colleagues and supervisors. My colleagues in Student Development are fun, authentic, good people. We probably laugh way more than we should!

Who inspired you to get involved in Higher Education?

My very first Supervisor when I was an RA at Illinois State, Kathy Sisneros (now at Colorado State) shared with me that graduate school offered programs for working on a college campus. She challenged me in my work as an RA, but also made a safer space for all of us to have conversations and ask questions.

What advice would you offer to new professionals who are starting their first professional position?

Hmmm. Higher education is an ever-evolving landscape which has many challenges ahead— so, be resilient, ask for help, and surround yourself with good people.