RA of the Month Criteria

  1. The RA has gone above and beyond the minimum expectations of an RA. For example, s/he has planned and implemented an excellent program or has handled a very difficult situation. A difficult situation could be a roommate conflict, crisis situation, or judicial situation. Describe one or more unique contributions this RA has made this month whether for residents, fellow staff members, or the community at large. BE SPECIFIC and give details if possible.
  2. The RA must be in good academic standing.*
  3. The RA must be considered in good departmental standing, i.e., currently not on probation or have any job action documentation in their personnel file.*

* These criteria will be checked by the RA OTM selection committee chair.

What Should My Nomination Look Like?

In general, we are looking for examples and specifics that show us how your nominee has gone above and beyond the minimum expectations of the RA position. We have many fabulous RAs on our staff who do a great job every day. This award is for those who often go the extra mile. Sample nominations are below to show you what we are looking for in these nominations. Also, keep in mind the hints located on the nomination page.

A Great Nomination (Examples are given with lots of details.)

I would like to nominate Beth Moriarty as RA OTM for August. Beth has made a positive contribution to our staff since I've been here; however, she has really shown during the past month. She has capably handled several difficult situations this month, including a severe roommate conflict, in addition to presenting a high-quality program, Staff Advance.

Beth handled an extremely difficult roommate conflict very well. When she initially became involved in the conflict the roommates were not speaking to each other and were threatening to have each other moved out of the room. However, after meeting with Beth and discussing and agreeing upon a roommate contract, both residents are now peaceably residing together. Additionally, Beth kept her supervisor informed during every step of this process and was constantly open for feedback and advice.

Beth also worked diligently to present her Staff Advance Program to her community. It was well received by her residents, and all of them attended. The program had opportunities for growth, introspection, plus planning and even some fun and relaxation. Her advertising made the program irresistible to her residents, as can be seen by the attendance. Her residents also were each able to take something away from the program.

Overall, I believe that Beth has gone above and beyond the basic expectations of an RA. She has worked hard to present a high quality program, while still finding time to mediate a difficult roommate conflict. Finally, while doing all of this, she still has remained well-connected and involved in the rest of her community. I believe that based on her performance this month that Beth should be selected as the RA OTM for August.

A Good Nomination (Specific examples are included, but with minimal detail.)

I want to nominate Beth Moriarty for August RA OTM. She deserves this because she worked hard to present a really good program, Staff Advance. She had all of her residents attend, and they really enjoyed it. Beth also dealt with a tough roommate conflict. After meeting with the residents they are speaking again and can continue to live together. Beth is always around for her residents and her staff. We all know that we can depend on her. She should be RA OTM.

An OK Nomination (Examples are given, but without any details.)

I want to nominate Beth Moriarty for August RA OTM. She does good programs and is creative. Beth also knows most of her residents and has good relationships with them. She also has a good relationship with her floor partner.

A Bad Nomination (No examples are given.)

Beth Moriarty should be RA OTM because she's really cool to work with.

Now that you know how to do it... Nominate an RA of the Month!

Questions concerning the Residence Life and Housing RA of the Month Process? Contact Michelle DeMille at M1Demille@Bridgew.edu

Questions concerning the National Residence Hall Honorary of the Month Process? Contact NRHH

Last Modified: March 16, 2010