STAR Program Recipients Fall 2024
The STAR Program offers Columbia Law School administrative staff a way to acknowledge and express appreciation for co-workers who make a difference in their everyday work life.
Pictured above: STAR Award recipients with Dean Daniel Abebe (Left to Right) Greg Jones, Dean Daniel Abebe, Melissa Rivera and Elena Soktoeva
Fall 2024
These are the recipients of the Staff Appreciation and Recognition (STAR) Program for the Fall 2024. Winners receive a $2,000 award and a standing crystal STAR as a signal of the school’s appreciation.
Greg Jones
Associate Director, Operations
Admissions
During his time in the Admissions Office, Greg has streamlined the office workflow and led the team through two system upgrades; this includes taking the lead on training the team on how to use the new systems. His knack for thinking outside the box for solutions is also astounding. He believes in maximizing time to in an effort to grow Admissions' outreach as much as possible while alleviating any unnecessary setbacks. Greg has an open door policy to address any concerns, and his calm demeanor and creative problem solving makes him the go-to person on the team. Greg leads by example through respect and kindness, and is more than deserving of the STAR Award.
Melissa Rivera
Coordinator
Building Services
Melissa provides high-quality assistance to the Law School community. Despite the challenges of tight schedules, limited space, and last-minute changes, she handles event coordination smoothly and consistently communicates clearly and professionally. Melissa is bright, innovative, and is always willing to find solutions in complicated situations. In addition to her event coordination responsibilities, she efficiently manages a high volume of correspondence in the Infocenter, supporting both our faculty and centers with their shipping needs. Her adaptability and problem-solving skills are crucial to the success of the Law School's events. Melissa is truly a STAR!
Elena Soktoeva
Library Assistant
Diamond Law Library
Elena is a strong leader who demonstrates a unique ability to inspire and constantly come up with improved and more efficient practices for the Law Library. Her attention to detail has allowed the staff in the Law Library to update and upgrade many workflows over the past year. Elena also has such a great demeanor when making suggestions. She always manages to make her colleagues in the Law Library feel seen. Elena’s ideas come from a place of truly knowing her work and wanting to make improvements to assist the law school as a whole.