Lindsie Fick and Derek Paup have been named the Ƶ 2026 Student Employees of the Year.
Ƶ has named Lindsie Fick and Derek Paup as its 2026 Student Employees of the Year, recognizing their outstanding contributions to campus through leadership and service.
The annual award highlights student employees who go above and beyond in their roles while contributing meaningfully to the Ƶcommunity. This year, 16 students were nominated across campus.
“Student employment is an essential part of what makes Ƶrun well and efficiently,” says Kyle Achterhoff, director of talent acquisition and student employment. “By honoring students like Lindsie and Derek, we’re not only recognizing their individual excellence—we’re also celebrating the many student employees who serve faithfully across campus each day.”
Fick, who works as farm help at Dordt’s Ag Stewardship Center (ASC), has earned a reputation for both her work ethic and leadership. Over three academic years and two summers, she has taken on increasing responsibility, including helping train new student employees and managing key aspects of farm operations.
“Lindsie has the unique ability to see work and take initiative without being asked,” says Mike Schouten, ASC steward. “Whether she’s feeding cattle early in the morning or stepping into new responsibilities, she approaches every task with excellence and a positive attitude.”
Known for her dependability and willingness to learn, Fick has become a central part of the ASC team. Schouten describes her as someone he trusts fully in any situation, noting her ability to handle everything from operating equipment to solving problems independently.
Paup, who serves as Dordt’s intramural council president, has played a key role in shaping the university’s intramural program over the past three years. In his position, he oversees scheduling, communication, and staffing for many campus events. He often manages complex logistics while also fostering a welcoming environment for participants.
“Derek has created a culture of excellence around intramurals at Dordt,” says Levi Jungling, assistant football coach and intramural supervisor. “He leads with both professionalism and joy, making every student feel valued and helping create a strong sense of community.”
In addition to coordinating events and managing a team of student employees, Paup is known for his ability to connect with others. His leadership has helped make intramurals a meaningful part of campus life, providing opportunities for students to build relationships and stay engaged outside the classroom.
Achterhoff emphasizes that experiences like these reflect the broader purpose of student employment at Dordt.
“We view student employment as a co-curricular experience,” he says. “It’s a place where students are mentored, develop lifelong skills, and build relationships that extend far beyond their time at Dordt. While students earn income through their work, the experience itself is often even more valuable.”
About Ƶ
As an institution of higher education committed to the Reformed Christian perspective, Ƶ equips students, faculty, alumni, and the broader community to work toward Christ-centered renewal in all aspects of contemporary life. Located in Sioux Center, Iowa, Ƶis a comprehensive university named to the best college lists by U.S. News and World Report, the Wall Street Journal, Times Higher Education, Forbes.com, Washington Monthly, and Princeton Review.
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