Student services coordinator recognized as staff champion for students

For his efforts in maintaining a creative and inclusive environment for engineering students, Branden Farmer, student services coordinator for the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, was recently recognized with the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering’s Staff Champion for the Student Experience award.

Richard Sesek, Tim Cook Professor in industrial and systems engineering, nominated Farmer for the award.

“I know of no other person who so consistently and tirelessly works on behalf of students and advocates for their best interests,” Sesek wrote in the nomination letter. “He helps them with all manner of problems and has earned the trust of students whom he advises. He is always looking for ways to assist students with scholarships, co-ops, internships, educational opportunities, study abroad programs and with their personal issues.”

Sesek added that Farmer’s enthusiasm is infectious, and he inspires students to be the best versions of themselves.

“Even when they cannot succeed in our department, he helps them find a ‘soft landing’ by helping them find a major that is more compatible with their aptitudes and interests,” he said. “In addition to being a great academic advisor, he is truly a champion for the students and helps ensure that they are getting the full experience of a college education.”

Farmer was previously awarded the college’s Outstanding New Advisor award and Excellence in Advising regional award from the National Academic Advising Association, both in 2022.

“I’m incredibly honored to receive the Staff Champion for the Student Experience award,” Farmer said. “I work for some of the best students who are truly making our world better.”