Student Employee of the Year 2026
Luke Moleski, Production Room Assistant and Game Day Host, Athletics Department
Moleski, a senior leader on the Athletics Marketing student team, has made an extraordinary impact through his leadership, innovation, and dedication. Beginning his journey as a production room assistant, he has grown into a key leader, overseeing game-day production and mentoring fellow students in one of the most critical behind-the-scenes roles within athletics.
He has mastered complex production systems at both Kessler Stadium and the OceanFirst Bank Center, leading operations for football and basketball while training and developing his peers. His efforts have helped create an engaging and high-energy game-day atmosphere that enhances both team performance and the fan experience.
In addition to his production leadership, Moleski serves as a dynamic in-game host, connecting with fans and elevating the overall event experience. Known for his professionalism, dependability, and team-first mindset, he consistently goes above and beyond in every role he takes on.
Outside of athletics, Moleski maintains a 3.5 GPA while actively contributing to campus radio and supporting various university initiatives. Most notably, he fosters a positive and inclusive environment, leaving a lasting impact on his peers and the broader Monmouth community.
Moleski’s growth from a quiet freshman to a confident and inspiring leader is a testament to his character and commitment.
Congratulations, Luke, on this well-deserved recognition.
Favorite Student Employment Memory
“It’s hard to pick just one favorite. I’ve had four years of awesome memories with great people. There was the football victory over Villanova. The time I was Shadow for a football game. When Cat, Kylie, and I bought red hair wigs and wore them for Kelly’s birthday. And of course, Cory Miller’s buzzer-beater when the Hawk Faithful stormed the court. However, I’d have to say my favorite memory was Student Field Trip Day this year. These kids blew the roof off OFBC. Every basket, they cheered like their lives depended on it, even during pregame warmups and halftime. It was special being at a game with an arena full of energy like that. Anything I said on the microphone, those kids would go nuts for. That was a great morning and an amazing Hawks W.”
Please Share What Your Job Has Given You
“This job has given me everything. I owe this job my life. I would not still be here without my supervisor, Kelly, the Shadow Squad, and this job. My freshman year, I didn’t have one person at Monmouth I could’ve called a friend. I was lost and depressed. I applied for this job thinking I was leaving Monmouth after one year, and after I started working and getting comfortable, I found a purpose. Entering college, I never had an interest in sports marketing, and after four years of working in sports marketing, it is now my dream to work in sports marketing at a higher level. I’ve had so many different jobs throughout my life, and I’ve never loved a job as much as this one. I can’t even call it a job because when you think of a job its something that you have to do. I want to do this. I look forward to going into work every game. I would do this for the rest of my life if I had the choice. I live and I’d die for the Hawk. I don’t want to graduate. I don’t want to leave Kelly. I don’t want to leave the Shadow Squad. I don’t want to leave this job. It feels like my purpose. I feel like there’s a reason I’m here, and it’s for this. This job has reshaped my entire life for the better, and I believe I am the man I am today because of this job.”
Read Luke Moleski’s Nomination Letter (Submitted by Kelly Valentine, Associate Athletics Director)
Luke Moleski has been recognized for his exceptional leadership and impact as a production room assistant and game day host in the Athletics Department at Monmouth University.
Moleski has been an integral part of the Athletics Department for four years, managing behind-the-scenes technology that powers live game day experiences, including videoboards, music, public address announcements, and fan cameras. He began as a production room assistant and has grown into a student leader who calls football games, leads the production team, and hosts in-game events that energize fans and enhance the home field advantage.
Moleski demonstrates remarkable initiative and professionalism. He comes early to prepare game scripts, fine-tunes music and promotions, and constantly looks for ways to elevate the game day experience. His technical skills, problem-solving, and creativity have transformed the atmosphere of home games across multiple sports, earning him respect from peers and staff alike.
Beyond technical mastery, Moleski exemplifies teamwork and mentorship. He trains and supports fellow students, filling nearly every possible role in Athletics operations, while maintaining excellence as a manager at WMCX, hosting a radio show, and sustaining a 3.5 GPA. His dedication fosters a culture of belonging, professionalism, and fun, leaving a lasting impact on the Athletics Department and the Monmouth community.
Moleski’s leadership, versatility, and commitment make him an outstanding candidate for the Student Employee of the Year Award.
Supervisor of the Year Award 2026
Dorothy Cleary, Director of Tutoring Services, Tutoring and Writing Services
2026 NEASEA Regional Supervisor of the Year
Dorothy Cleary passed away unexpectedly prior to the public announcement, leaving our campus community heartbroken by the loss of an extraordinary leader, mentor, and colleague.
Cleary served in her role for many years and was instrumental in fostering mentorship and advancing experiential learning opportunities for student tutors. Her leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment significantly strengthened the academic support services available to the Monmouth University student population.
A two-time recipient of Supervisor of the Year honors, Cleary was most recently recognized in 2019. we know she would have been deeply honored and proud of this recognition.
Cleary was also deeply committed to service beyond campus, including her involvement with New Jersey Run for the Fallen and her volunteer work with Serenity Stables, a therapeutic horse farm supporting veterans.
Cleary’s legacy of mentorship, service, and unwavering dedication to student success will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of working with her.
Read Dorothy Cleary’s Nomination Letter (Submitted by Veronique Manfredini, Student Employee, Tutoring and Writing Services)
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.