Barb Estes receives KUDOS award from Board of Regents

Barb Estes, business manager in UNK’s Office of International Education, received the University of Nebraska Board of Regents KUDOS award on July 18.

KUDOS awards recognize university staff for their professional expertise, service and “superior dedication” to UNK and the University of Nebraska.

Estes started her career at UNK in 2011, but she has been an active member of the university community far longer than that. Her late husband, Kent, was a longtime UNK professor. Between Barb, Kent and their three sons Erik, Aaron and Luke, her family has earned seven degrees from UNK.

As business manager, Estes processes international education and English Language Institute financial transactions; monitors budgets; oversees position searches and related hiring documents; finalizes office travel arrangements, and coordinates the Takushoku Aviation Transportation Program; and hires and supervises work study students.

Estes also assists with special projects such as delegate visits and the enormously popular International Food Festival. She works closely with office staff to provide support to international students. Colleagues note that international students are “at the heart of all of her efforts.”

In addition, Estes is often the office’s first point of contact and is a natural at developing excellent rapport, say colleagues. She is described by colleagues as the office’s “most valuable team player,” the “glue that holds the office together,” and the one who “plans the fun and boosts morale.”

Beyond her office responsibilities, Barb serves on UNK’s Professional Development Committee, is a graduate of Leadership UNK, and actively assists with athletic and fundraising events.

Estes shared her personal mission statement, which is “to be a positive role model for my family; to be encouraging and supportive to others while living every day with integrity and joy.”

Estes was recognized and given her KUDOS award at the Board of Regents meeting in Lincoln, which also was attended by her three sons: Erik, Aaron and Luke.

-30-