Hector Deleon is a Campus Missionary at FOCUS Catholic. Colleagues describe him as "Hector is somebody you want on your team. He has many outstanding qualities: team mentality, detailed oriented, passion and understanding, quick learner, and the list goes on! I was Hector's supervisor for a year when I worked at KU Recreation Services. In that year alone, I witnessed tremendous growth as an individual, a worker, and a leader. There are three tiers that the facility student workers can work as: Facility Assistant, Facility Supervisor, and Program Manager. Hector started, like all others, as a Facility Assistant. Here, he helped greet guest, assist with memberships,and help maintain the cleanliness of the facility. I could count on Hector to always be early for his shifts, give a helping hand, and most importantly he continuously asked questions. Hector wanted to learn more about his role/responsibilities, but also wanted to gain a better understanding of the bigger picture of our team and Campus Recreation. After Hector had a semester under his belt as a Facility Assistant, he applied to be promoted to Facility Supervisor. Unfortunately, Hector did not receive the promotion. To no fault of his own, there were too many qualified, "seniored" students who applied and not enough open positions. The reason I want to highlight this offset is the way Hector reacted to it was so admirable! He continued to be present at work and strived to improve for the next round. This second semester, I could see him growing out of his shell by taking initiative, making stronger connections with his peers, encouraging team morale, and better developing the new hires. Seeing Hector make astronomical strides as a leader, I was excited for the next wave of promotions because Hector was at the top of my list. What caught me by surprise was Hector applied straight to Risk Management - Program Manager (1 of 3 leadership positions on the team). These leadership positions were historically awarded to "seniored" students after being a Facility Supervisor. Hector's interview was by far the best among his peers for the position. He had charisma, passion, and demonstrated relevant skills and experiences that have prepared him for the position; one of which is where he addressed his setback in the fall when he did not get promoted to Facility Supervisor. His interview was so admirable, and I could not have thought of anybody who was more qualified and who truly cared about the vision for the team. Although my time had concluded in my role before Heck took full responsibility, I was able to witness his training. He absorbed all the new information of Facility Supervisor and Program Manager very quickly. He paid close attention to all risk management check lists as these are of a high level of importance in case of an emergency. He started brainstorming training and retention ideas for the rest of the staff in the upcoming fall semester. Overall, Hector is a top-tier employee, teammate, and a friend. Any company would be lucky to have Hector on their team! " and "Dedicated. Hard Working. Team Player. Enthusiastic. Positive. These are only a few characteristics that describe Hector. I had the privilege of working with Hector, while at KU. Hector was in a leadership role that required peer supervision, hiring/training/onboarding, and managing our risk management program. His enthusiasm and ability to see the big picture to advance our program was exceptional. He is well liked and will always bring the positive attitude and determination to whatever he is involved in. I look forward to seeing Hector's career evolve and know he will be an asset to any program he is involved in."