We are excited to recognize Karina Aispuro, Academic Coordinator/Advisor 3 with the Learning Commons at WSU Tri-Cities, as a Crimson Spirit Award recipient!

The Crimson Spirit Award honors WSU faculty and staff who go above and beyond in their work, demonstrating exceptional dedication, a positive attitude, and a commitment to the university community.

Karina’s nominators had many great things to say. “Karina provides exceptional service through not only her direct work with students, but also through the leadership and mentoring she provides to her team through her ability to problem solve, motivate, and follow-up and debrief challenges that present themselves when working in Academic Advising. She makes such a tremendous impact on students, who state they feel supported, heard, and ready to tackle their classes.”

“Because of her caring, compassionate attitude, and fortitude in accessing student needs, she helps students anticipate and discuss systemic challenges that are impacting their academic success and serves as a great referral agent to other Academic and Student Services offices.

“She is the Academic Director, she also serves on the Cougar Cares Team (WSU Tri-Cities’ Student Care Network), and provides excellent critical thinking, offering WSU system expertise, and has innovative ideas to reach students when they need support the most!”

Side notes from one of Karina’s Nominators: “I have known Karina since I started my position at WSU Tri-Cities five years ago. I work with her in the Cougar Cares team weekly and have observed her direct impact on how she addresses academic success. She is pleasant to work with, BEYOND humble, and continues to offer other staff supportive comments, praise, and motivation that helps them succeed in their roles. She is also an alumnus of WSU Tri-Cities and is so proud of the fact that she gets to give back to her educational institution– I can think of no one else who is more deserving of this award!”