A University of Wyoming committee has chosen Luke Lenski of Monument, Colo., a junior in animal science, as UW's Student Employee of the Year.
He received a plaque and cash award from the Western Association of Student Employment Administrators and a cash award from UW.
An assistant with UW's Laramie Research and Extension Center Livestock Farm, Lenski was chosen based on his reliability, initiative, uniqueness of contribution, quality of work, professionalism and community and campus service. He was selected from 25 nominations across campus.
"Working beside me at both the swine unit and the feed mill, Luke is quick to learn complicated procedures, catching on and continuing to successful follow-through," says Dave Lutterman, UW livestock manager. "These traits are so valuable when working with animals and rations. I do not have to re-check his work or doubt the quality of the job. Luke's consistent and reliable attention on the job site is more than enough to keep my confidence up that things will end well."
Lutterman tells how Lenski "calmly prepared his hand and arm, reached up inside a sow and pulled out a baby who was too large for the pelvis. His attention and savvy for an animal in need that night saved two baby piglets and their mother who went on to have 17 more offspring (a record by most standards). Another sow who would have met the same fate became the second family, this one numbering 12, that Luke saved."
Lenski is involved in activities including the Block and Bridle Club, Tractor Club and a shotgun sports club in Laramie.
