Supervisor of the Year Nominees (2026)

Tom Bieber has been recognized for his exceptional leadership, mentorship, and dedication to supporting student employees and student-athletes within Monmouth Universitys Athletic.

As associate athletics director for academic support, Bieber plays a vital role in guiding both student-athletes and student staff toward academic and professional success. His leadership style is built on trust, collaboration, and a strong commitment to personal development. From the start, he empowers student employees by entrusting them with meaningful projects and providing the autonomy to lead initiatives while remaining available for guidance and support.s

Bieber consistently goes above and beyond the traditional role of a supervisor. His professionalism, flexibility, and understanding create an environment where student employees feel valued not only as workers, but also as students and individuals. For graduate assistants balancing academic and professional responsibilities, Bieber’s mentorship makes the experience both manageable and rewarding.

Known for his calm, solutions-oriented approach, Bieber models integrity and clear communication in every interaction. Whether working with student-athletes, coaches, faculty, or staff, he sets a high standard of professionalism and accountability. His dedication to improving processes and supporting student-athlete success reflects his strong commitment to the mission of the Athletic Department and the university as a whole.

Beyond his administrative responsibilities, Bieber’s genuine investment in people truly sets him apart. He fosters a culture of mentorship, encouraging students to develop their skills, contribute ideas, and grow with confidence. His guidance has helped student employees gain valuable professional experience while preparing them for future careers in higher education and athletics.

Bieber’s dedication to mentorship, leadership, and student success makes him an outstanding candidate for the Supervisor of the Year Award.

Dorothy Cleary is recognized for her exceptional mentorship, leadership, and dedication to student employees at Monmouth University.

Throughout her tenure, Cleary served as more than a supervisor; she was a mentor, a guide, and a source of inspiration for all student employees. She created a supportive work environment where students felt both valued as individuals and challenged to grow professionally. Her leadership balanced empathy with accountability, fostering a culture of respect, collaboration, and excellence.

Cleary consistently went above and beyond in her work. She navigated challenges such as budget constraints while ensuring her team remained equipped and prepared. Her dedication extended beyond administrative duties, inspiring student employees through her volunteer work and example of service to the Monmouth University community.

Even after her passing, Cleary’s mentorship continues to shape the student employment experience and leaves a lasting legacy of compassion, professionalism, and service. Student employees remember her guidance, encouragement, and personal investment in their success, which went far beyond the expectations of her role. Cleary’s impact, leadership, and unwavering dedication make her a remarkable candidate for the Supervisor of the Year Award, and her legacy continues to inspire all who had the privilege to work with her.

Caroline Hurtt has been recognized for her exceptional leadership, mentorship, and dedication to student employees in the Office of Undergraduate Admission.

As assistant director of Undergraduate Admission, Hurtt manages the University Ambassador program, fostering a work environment built on trust, accountability, and recognition. She balances high professional standards with genuine care for her student employees, inspiring them to perform their best while feeling supported and valued.

Hurtt’s leadership extends beyond supervision of day-to-day tasks. She motivates ambassadors to give engaging and memorable tours to prospective students and families, celebrating individual achievements and providing public recognition when ambassadors excel. Her attention to her students’ professional and personal well-being ensures they feel appreciated, confident, and prepared for future careers.

She models both professionalism and empathy. Hurtt expects punctuality, focus, and effort from her team while also being attuned to personal challenges, offering encouragement, guidance, and care. Through her mentorship, ambassadors develop essential workplace skills, professional values, and confidence that extend far beyond their time at Monmouth University.

Hurtt also cultivates a sense of community and celebration within her team. She organizes end-of-semester and end-of-year celebrations, recognizing each Ambassador personally and celebrating their contributions. Her thoughtful gestures and personal attention to students demonstrate her genuine investment in their success and growth.

Hurtt’s dedication, passion, and impact on student employees make her an outstanding candidate for the Supervisor of the Year Award.

Doris Meyer has been recognized for her exceptional mentorship, leadership, and dedication to supporting student employees within the Honors School at Monmouth University.

As assistant to the dean of the Honors School, Meyer plays a vital role in creating a supportive and collaborative environment where student employees feel welcomed, valued, and empowered. Through her leadership, the Honors Office has become a space that fosters community, encourages professional growth, and supports student success both inside and outside the workplace.

Meyer is known for her ability to guide students with patience and encouragement, helping them build confidence as they learn new responsibilities and develop professional skills. She empowers student employees to contribute their unique talents and ideas, creating a collaborative office culture where diverse perspectives are welcomed. Her commitment to student involvement is reflected in initiatives such as the Honors Student Advisory Board, which provides students with opportunities to contribute their voices to Honors School decisions in a meaningful and professional setting.

Beyond her professional guidance, Meyer invests deeply in the personal success of her student employees. She takes time to connect with students individually, offering support, encouragement, and advice as they navigate academic and personal challenges. Whether celebrating student achievements, offering encouragement before exams, or helping students identify opportunities such as scholarships, Meyer consistently demonstrates compassion and genuine care for the people she mentors.

Meyer also plays an important role in strengthening the Honors community through innovation and dedication. She continually works to improve office systems, enhance teamwork, and create welcoming spaces for students, including reimagining the Honors Office to include a student lounge that encourages connection and engagement across campus. Her dedication and enthusiasm inspire student employees to strive for the same level of excellence she demonstrates every day.

Meyer’s commitment to mentorship, leadership, and student success makes her an outstanding candidate for the Supervisor of the Year Award.

Kelly Valentine, the 2025 Supervisor of the Year recipient, has again been recognized for her exceptional mentorship, leadership, and dedication to student employees within Monmouth University Athletics.

As associate athletics director for marketing & promotions, Valentine has created a welcoming and supportive work environment where students feel valued, respected, and motivated to succeed. Through her leadership of the Shadow Squad, she has fostered a culture that feels less like a workplace and more like a close-knit community. Students describe her as someone who makes everyone feel understood and supported, creating an environment where they are comfortable asking questions, sharing concerns, and learning from their experiences.

Valentine’s ability to guide students through both professional and personal challenges has had a lasting impact. She takes the time to mentor students through real-world workplace situations, helping them understand how to navigate decisions, responsibilities, and expectations in a professional setting. Her guidance encourages students to grow, take initiative, and perform their roles to the best of their ability.

Beyond mentorship, Valentine is known for her quick thinking and problem-solving skills during live athletic events. Whether managing game-day operations or resolving unexpected technical issues, she leads with confidence and determination, ensuring successful events while providing students with valuable hands-on experience in sports marketing and event production.

Many students credit Valentine with helping them discover new career paths and develop important workplace and life skills. Through her encouragement, leadership, and dedication, she inspires students to pursue opportunities in sports marketing and beyond. Her impact extends far beyond the job itself, shaping the professional growth and confidence of the students she supervises.

Valentine’s continued commitment to student success and leadership makes her an outstanding candidate for the Supervisor of the Year Award.