Cindy Zimbelman, office associate to the UNK chief of police, received the University of Nebraska Board of Regents KUDOS award during today’s meeting.
KUDOS awards recognize university staff for their professional expertise, service and “superior dedication” to UNK and the University of Nebraska. It is the university’s top staff award.
Zimbelman has devoted approximately 25 years to UNK, beginning her career in the student union and ID card office before transitioning to UNK Police.
Throughout her tenure, she’s been a dependable presence, providing invaluable administrative support, keeping the department organized and serving as a trusted resource for officers, staff, students and the university community. Her institutional knowledge, positive attitude and commitment to UNK have made her an integral part of the police department.
UNK Police Chief Ricci Fast says she brings a contagious smile and genuine can-do approach to everything she does. She willingly steps in to help, often without being asked, and handles the countless details and unexpected challenges of supporting a police department with professionalism and a positive outlook.
Zimbelman is someone people know they can turn to, according to Fast, and her response is often simply, “We’ll figure it out.”
Her contributions create organization, stability and continuity, allowing officers and leadership to focus on keeping the UNK community safe.