Manhattan, Kan. - In recogintion of National Student Employment Appreciation Week (April 12-18), the K-State Student Union proudly celebrates the outstanding contributions of its student employees and honors those recognized in the 2026 Student Employee of the Year program.

The annual Student Employee of the Year Ceremony was held last week, April 8, 2026, at the K-State Alumni Center. Here, nominated students from across campus were recognized for their dedication, professionalism, and impact. Five finalists were selected from a competitive pool of nominees, with one student receiving the prestifious Kyle Pelton Student Employee of the Year Award. 

This award recognizes student employees who demonstrate excellence in reliability, quality of work, initiative, professionalism, and a defining impact within their roles. Eligible students must serve in an official student employee position for at leasts six months during the academic year and consistently exemplify these qualities through measurable contributions and leadership. The K-State Student Union was proud to have three exceptional student employees nominated:

• Laly Hernandez, Union Program Council (UPC)
• Riley Scott, Student Creative Services (SCS)
• Jenna Sorensen, Bowling Center

"Student employees are the heart of the K-State Student Union, and their care, energy, and insight add to the vibrance of our student union," said Erik Kahl, Executive Director of the K-State Student Union. "Our student employees are our greatest asset. The energy, charisma, and professionalism they bring to work everyday, while balancing their class schedules and coursework, is inspiring. Students may start working in the Union as just another job, but they quickly discover it is much more: connection, mentorship, skill-building, and a greater sense of purpose. I am genuinely honored to work in a place where student employees play such a significant role in our operations and in shaping our culture."

Our Nominees

Laly Hernandez

Laly has been a part of UPC for the past two years, serving as Co-Chair of the Multicultural Committee in her first year and as President during the current year. Looking for a community to call her own after transferring from Blinn Community College in Texas, Laly was introduced to UPC at the Activities Carnival in the fall of 2024. After speaking with Programs Coordinator Caitlin McCourt about all that UPC had to offer, she was instantly hooked.

Over the course of her time here, Laly has shown great initiative in creating both an office space and event environment that are unique, engaging, and welcoming to K-State students and community members. In addition to balancing her life as a student, Laly manages the UPC front desk, coordinates event details across all UPC committees, and serves as an adaptable, responsible, and independent leader of the organization.

Jenna Sorensen

Jenna has been a valued member with the K-State Student Union Bowling Center for the past two years, beginning her time as a team member and stepping into a Lead role following her freshman year. In her current position, Jenna helps oversee daily operations, often serving as the go-to staff member when management is not present.

In this role, she supports a wide range of responsibilities, including assisting with maintenance tasks, training new team members, and ensuring the space runs smoothly for both staff and guests. Jenna also plays an important part in creating a welcoming environment, engaging with members of the K-State and Manhattan communities to ensure each guest has a positive and enjoyable experience.

Throughout her time at the Bowling Center, Jenna has proven herself to be a dependable and motivated leader who leads by example. She consistently takes initiative, whether handling day-to-day responsibilities or stepping up to take on larger tasks without hesitation. Her strong work ethic, reliability, and commitment to going above and beyond make her an essential part of the team.

Riley Scott

Riley has been with SCS for the past four years, starting his time at the Union as a graphic designer during his freshman year and now serving as the Student Lead for SCS. In his role, Riley is one of the first points of contact for perspective clients from K-State student organizations looking to have work done to grow their brand. In this initial consultation, Riley guides clients through what all SCS can offer including brand strategy, social media, graphic design, and photography/videography to best fit their needs. He works with other SCS student employees and full-time staff to make sure that projects are completed on time and are of the highest quality. Throughout his time here, Riley has been recognized as a top-tier graphic designer with a Second Place finish for Logo/Brand Identity at the 2026 ACUI 'Steal this Idea' Competition, which also won First Place for 'Best Logo Design' at the Intercollegiate Broadcast System - National Awards in New Your City previously this year! Attached below is a glimpse into some of Riley's work throughout his time at SCS. 

As National Student Employment Appreciation Week continues, the K-State Student Union extends its gratitude to all student emploees whose dedication and passion enhance the campus experience for the entire Kansas State university community.

The Union’s mission is to serve all, especially students, with facilities that provide services, programs, leadership experiences and educational opportunities which foster a sense of well-being, belonging and community.