Kealan McCutcheon, Esports Director at ICC was honored with the esteemed 2023-2024 NASPA Region IV-W New Professional Rising Star Award during the regional conference held in Oklahoma City on November 6-8.
The New Professional Rising Star award is a distinction bestowed upon individuals with less than three years of experience in the Student Affairs profession, employed in a full-time role within the Division of Student Affairs, who have made significant contributions to their campus.
In his role as Esports Director at ICC, McCutcheon's passion for student engagement within and beyond the realm of Esports, commitment to student well-being, and dedication to maximizing the potential of the Esports program have set him apart. Often found working with students on various competition teams after regular hours, McCutcheon has rapidly become a driving force in the success of ICC's Esports initiative.
McCutcheon's noteworthy achievements at ICC include:
- Development and implementation of a cutting-edge Esports curriculum
- Establishment of a vibrant Esports student organization
- Leadership that has propelled the Esports team to numerous regional and national championships
- Organization and hosting of high-profile Esports tournaments and events
David Adams, Vice President for Student Affairs, recognized McCutcheon's outstanding contributions by nominating him for the award. In his nomination statement, Adams remarked, "Mr. McCutcheon is a rising star in the Student Affairs profession. He is deeply committed to student success and well-being, and in a relatively short period, he has made remarkable contributions to our campus. I eagerly anticipate the continued accomplishments in his promising career."
The NASPA Region IV-W New Professional Rising Star Award serves as a testament to McCutcheon's impactful leadership and dedication to enhancing the student experience at ICC. This recognition reinforces ICC's commitment to fostering excellence in the realm of Esports and Student Affairs.