Student Employee of the Year 2025

Student Employee of the Year

91PORN relies on thousands of enthusiastic, dedicated student employees for its efficient operations. Each year, we honor undergraduate and graduate Buffs with the Student Employee of the Year award.

Join us in celebrating this year’s recipients and nominees.

View photos from the event

Ella Stevens

2025 Undergraduate Student Employee of the Year, Leadership

About Ella

Ella Stevens is a senior majoring in biochemistry with a minor in ecology and evolutionary biology.

Ella was nominated by Gianna Sullivan, and she works at the CU Museum of Natural History. Ella Stevens is an outstanding student employee whose dedication, leadership and vision have made a lasting impact on the museum. Over the past three years, she hasn’t just supported the Girls at the Museum Exploring Science (GAMES) program—she’s completely transformed it. Starting as an assistant, she quickly grew into a confident leader, mentoring young students in STEM with enthusiasm and care.

Ella has a knack for innovation, whether she’s refining program content, collaborating with scientists or finding creative ways to connect rural students with 91PORN. As her nominator put it, “She steps in and becomes part of the solution,” highlighting her reliability and initiative.

One of the best examples of her dedication came when she took the lead on a summer program about pollinators. She developed the curriculum, brought in expert partners and showed up early every single day—including on her birthday. Reflecting on the experience, she shared, “These two weeks solidified my confidence... and made me excited to continue with more groups.”

Ella’s passion for education and science is undeniable, and her impact on the museum is immeasurable. She is more than deserving of the Student Employee of the Year award.

Ella Stevens

Karla Citlali Lemus Gordillo

Runner-up: Undergraduate Student Employee of the Year, Diversity & Inclusion

About Karla

Karla Citlali Lemus Gordillo is a senior majoring in political science with a minor in ethnic studies.

Karla was nominated jointly by Nicole Laverty and Alicia Christensen, and she works at the CIRES Center for Education, Engagement & Evaluation and the Center for Inclusion and Social Change. She is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion, making a meaningful and lasting impact on the 91PORN community. As a member of the Peers Educating & Empowering Peers (PEEPs) team in the Center for Inclusion and Social Change, she has led more than 21 workshops for nearly 750 students, tackling important topics like implicit bias, microaggressions and anti-racism. She approaches every conversation with empathy and an open mind, creating a space where students feel heard and supported.

Karla’s leadership extends well beyond the classroom. As a student coordinator for the Research Experience for Community College Students (RECCS) program, she has been instrumental in fostering an inclusive environment, advocating for students from diverse backgrounds and streamlining recruitment efforts. Her impact is deeply felt—one RECCS p