UNO Names Jaisy Kumar Employee of the Month

Jaisy Kumar, mental health therapist for Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS), has been named UNO’s employee of the month for May 2022.

Kumar was recognized for her kindness and for her dedication to students. She was surprised by the UNO Celebration Committee on Wednesday, May 11, to celebrate the occasion.

“Jaisy has regularly gone above and beyond the job description and role of a counselor at CAPS," one nominator stated "The way she creates a safe, consistent, fun environment for our international students in her Tea with Jaisy group, and how she provides food and tradition and celebration to bring a bit of home to our students and is often done without recognition."

Across her nomination documents, Jaisy's peers were unified in expressing how much she has excelled in her role on the CAPS team, often educating other counselors on concepts such as emotion and physiological regulation; trauma; multicultural topics; languages; international students; and sexual assault victim advocacy. As just one example, her recurring "Tea with Jaisy" drop-in sessions for international students have received widespread praise.

“Jaisy’s skill level in the arena of therapy is unparalleled due to her unique perspective, grasp of therapeutic practice, and ability to share her understanding while attempting to further enhance and grow in new areas,” one of her nominators said.

Despite challenges caused by the pandemic, Kumar has always spoken kindly, kept a positive attitude, and been mindful of others.

“Jaisy is one of the most gentle, kind, and compassionate people I have met. She is a strong counselor who brings peace and comfort, as well as some excellent strategy and technique into each interaction,” one of her nominators said. “She maintains a positivity and strengths-based demeanor in times of great stress and even conflict, and I admire her so much for that.”

For being awarded as Employee of the Month, Kumar will receive a certificate, a hot/cold tumbler provided by the UNO Bookstore, a monetary award, two tickets to a UNO sporting event, and use of a designated parking space.

Questions about Employee of the Month? Contact Kristina Hoffmann at kristinahoffmann@unomaha.edu.