Joseph Tonche, 2025 Texas A&M-Kingsville Student Employee of the Year, earned recognition for leadership, professionalism, and teamwork.

At Texas A&M University-Kingsville, the Student Employee of the Year award is an esteemed recognition given to students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, professionalism, initiative, and teamwork throughout their employment on campus. In 2025, this prestigious award was granted to Joseph Tonche, a student whose contributions to the university’s Center for Student Success have left an indelible mark on both his colleagues and the students he serves. His recognition is not only a testament to his exemplary work ethic but also an affirmation of the qualities that are valued in the modern workplace.

This comprehensive essay will explore the impact Joseph Tonche has had in his role, his alignment with the NACE Career Readiness Competencies, and the characteristics that led to his being honored with this distinguished award.

Background and Role at the Center for Student Success

Joseph Tonche began working at the Center for Student Success during his time at Texas A&M-Kingsville, where he quickly became a pivotal member of the team. The Center is a hub for academic support, providing tutoring, advising, and mentoring services to students across various disciplines. Joseph’s role primarily focused on assisting in the coordination of tutoring services, working with students to ensure that their educational needs were met, and helping to create a supportive environment for peer tutors. His commitment to the success of his peers and the institution made him stand out among other student employees.

Joseph’s work environment was dynamic and fast-paced, and his responsibilities required him to juggle multiple tasks, often under tight deadlines. He was not only a dependable student worker but also a mentor to his fellow employees, showing leadership and initiative in various situations. Whether it was managing scheduling conflicts, facilitating communication between tutors and students, or offering suggestions to improve operational efficiency, Joseph’s ability to take on responsibility and provide solutions played a critical role in the overall effectiveness of the Center for Student Success.

Leadership and Initiative

One of the most noteworthy aspects of Joseph’s work was his leadership. His ability to take initiative in a role that required him to work both independently and collaboratively with others helped shape the success of the tutoring operations at the Center. He approached each challenge with a calm and methodical mindset, ensuring that every task, no matter how small, was completed to the best of his ability.

Joseph’s leadership was not defined by a formal title but by the example he set for his colleagues. He demonstrated a keen understanding of the importance of building a cohesive and productive team. He worked tirelessly to improve the operations at the Center, and in doing so, he inspired others to elevate their own performance. His leadership was not about directing others; it was about setting a standard of excellence that motivated his peers to follow suit. Joseph’s ability to lead by example is a quality that is rare and valued in a workplace setting, making him a standout candidate for the Student Employee of the Year award.

In addition to his natural leadership abilities, Joseph exhibited remarkable initiative. He was proactive in identifying areas where the Center could improve, suggesting and implementing changes that positively impacted the overall tutoring experience. For instance, Joseph recognized that many students faced challenges with scheduling tutoring sessions due to conflicting class times. He took the initiative to work with his team to develop a more flexible scheduling system that allowed for easier access to tutoring services. This change not only made the tutoring services more accessible to students but also contributed to a more efficient workflow for the tutors.

Joseph’s initiative also extended to his ability to adapt to changing circumstances. As the academic needs of students evolved, so too did the demands of the Center. Whether responding to an influx of students seeking tutoring or adjusting to new academic policies, Joseph remained adaptable and ready to take on new responsibilities. His willingness to step up in times of need showed his unwavering commitment to supporting the academic success of his peers.

Professionalism and Teamwork

Another key component of Joseph’s success was his unwavering professionalism. As a student employee, Joseph had to balance his academic responsibilities with his work duties, all while maintaining a high level of professionalism. He was punctual, dependable, and approached every task with a positive attitude and strong work ethic. His professionalism extended beyond his personal responsibilities; he was also a role model for his peers, setting the tone for what it meant to be dedicated, reliable, and respectful in a work setting.

Joseph’s interactions with both students and staff members were consistently marked by a high degree of professionalism. He always treated others with respect and was quick to offer assistance when needed. Whether working one-on-one with a student who was struggling academically or collaborating with other team members to streamline operations, Joseph’s ability to communicate effectively and professionally helped foster an atmosphere of mutual respect and cooperation.

In terms of teamwork, Joseph excelled at building strong relationships with his colleagues, creating a collaborative environment where everyone felt valued. He understood the importance of working together towards common goals, and his ability to harmonize diverse perspectives within the team contributed to the success of the Center’s operations. Joseph was also quick to recognize the contributions of others, offering praise and encouragement whenever his colleagues performed well. His collaborative nature ensured that the team functioned seamlessly, resulting in a more effective tutoring service for students.

One of Joseph’s key strengths was his ability to work across departments and with a wide variety of individuals. He regularly collaborated with faculty, administrators, and fellow students to ensure that tutoring services met the diverse needs of the university community. His ability to navigate different personalities and communication styles without compromising the goals of the team or the Center for Student Success further highlighted his professionalism and teamwork abilities.

NACE Career Readiness Competencies

The National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) defines eight core competencies that contribute to career readiness in students. These competencies—critical thinking, communication, teamwork, leadership, professionalism, career management, global & intercultural fluency, and technology management—are designed to equip students with the skills necessary to succeed in the workforce. Joseph Tonche’s work at the Center for Student Success aligns closely with these competencies, making him an exemplary student employee and an ideal recipient of the 2025 Student Employee of the Year award.

Joseph’s leadership and initiative demonstrate his strength in critical thinking and problem-solving, as he was constantly assessing situations and devising strategies to enhance the Center’s operations. His ability to communicate effectively with both students and colleagues showcased his communication skills, while his commitment to creating a collaborative and respectful environment reflects his proficiency in teamwork and professionalism.

Joseph’s adaptability and readiness to take on new challenges also demonstrate his career management skills. By continuously seeking out opportunities for improvement and showing a proactive approach to his professional growth, Joseph exhibited the qualities of a future leader in any industry. His awareness of the global and intercultural needs of students further highlights his competency in global fluency, as he sought to create a tutoring service that was inclusive and accessible to all students, regardless of background.

Finally, Joseph’s ability to use technology to improve tutoring services, such as the scheduling system, demonstrates his competence in technology management. In today’s workforce, the ability to leverage technology is crucial, and Joseph’s ability to integrate it seamlessly into his work enhanced the Center’s overall operations.

Recognition and Award

Joseph Tonche’s outstanding contributions did not go unnoticed. In recognition of his exceptional performance and commitment to excellence, he was awarded the 2025 Texas A&M-Kingsville Student Employee of the Year award. This prestigious honor also included a $250 cash award, which serves as both a financial reward and a symbol of the value that the university places on the work of its student employees.

Joseph’s recognition as Student Employee of the Year is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and the impact he has had on the university community. His efforts have not only improved the operations of the Center for Student Success but also positively influenced the academic lives of countless students who have benefitted from the tutoring services he helped coordinate.