Nicole Trower and President Neal Smatresk

 

Feb. 25, 2021

 

A one-person welcoming committee. A role model. A tremendous ambassador for UNT.

Those are all words used to describe UNT's own Nicole Trower, who is well known for being one of the most cheerful and helpful staffers on campus as she greets visitors and members of the campus community each day at the Chestnut Street/Avenue C kiosk.

“From the first day I arrived, I knew you embodied the spirit of this university. You are creative, you are resilient and you care. You care about everyone who comes through here, you have a good word to say about them and you lift people up. Because of that, you are the perfect first recipient of the Brand Ambassador Award,” President Neal Smatresk told her Wednesday when he surprised her with the award.

The UNT Brand Ambassador of the Month Award will be presented to faculty and staff who demonstrate many of the attributes that embody the UNT brand promise of being a caring and creative community that empowers our students to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

“From the very beginning when I was little, my mom used to tell me, ‘You can't just go up to everyone and try to help them.' I've always been this way, and I just love working with people,” says Nicole, a customer service lead in Transportation Services. “Every day I get a different experience, and it is nice. I try to keep people pepped up, because the things we've been going through here lately have been challenging. We're going to get through this.”

Nicole, who just celebrated 20 years at UNT Feb. 12, previously earned the UNT Customer Service Award in 2018 and the UNT Community Award in 2013.

On a typical day, she interacts with dozens of people — helping them find parking, giving directions, answering questions or just asking about their day. She's often the first person a visitor to our campus encounters, and her friendly, helpful service leaves a lasting impression. It's no wonder she is our first Brand Ambassador.

Even on the hottest, coldest, rainiest or most hectic days, Nicole always has a smile and a friendly word for everyone. She is a tremendous ambassador for the university and beloved by all who have the pleasure of interacting with her.

Congrats, Nicole!

 


About the Award

The Brand Ambassador of the Month Award will be presented to one member of the faculty or staff who demonstrates many of the attributes that embody the UNT brand promise of being a caring and creative community that empowers our students to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

The recipient must exhibit four or more of the following 12 brand attributes to be considered for the award: creative, imaginative, artistic, original, dedicated, persevering, industrious, resilient, supportive, friendly, compassionate and inclusive.

To nominate one of your peers, send an email to BrandAmbassador@unt.edu with a description and specific examples of why you are nominating the individual for the award.