Roanoke College wouldn’t be what it is without the support of its dedicated staff. A few of those exceptional staff members were recognized with 2025 Service to All Roanoke (STAR) Awards at the college’s annual holiday gathering on Dec. 17, 2025. The awards are given to staff members who exceed expectations in their positions and embody the Maroon spirit by making a positive difference on and off campus.
The awards are handed out annually, and nominations are accepted based on three categories: hourly, non-exempt and exempt. Recipients receive a trophy and a cash prize.
Robert Shupe was honored in the hourly category. As a 37-year member of the Buildings and Grounds Department, Shupe has installed miles and miles of brick pavers that are a signature part of our beautiful campus. He is a collaborative and solution-oriented team member, and he also takes time to do for others. Shupe has served as a team coach of the bass fishing team and has contributed hours to the cycling team and the food truck, making sure their equipment and vehicles are in good shape. Shupe consistently embodies the values of our mission, and he has had a positive influence on the college community.
Rhonda Stoots, a member of the Housekeeping staff, also received the award in the hourly category. Since joining the college 12 years ago, she has consistently gone above and beyond in her work. Stoots takes great pride in performing her work at a high standard, and her work ethic sets a great example for colleagues. Her experience and knowledge of equipment and products makes her a go-to person for high-visibility housekeeping tasks. Not only does she exhibit high standards in her work, she also shows care and compassion for the faculty and students in the buildings she is assigned.
April McCadden, a lieutenant in charge of neighborhood outreach and education for the Campus Safety Office, received the STAR award in the non-exempt category. McCadden, who will celebrate 10 years at Roanoke in 2026, takes genuine time for others and builds meaningful connections across departments on campus, which fosters collaboration and an inclusive environment. Whether she is volunteering at campus events, serving on committees or mentoring students, her leadership is always grounded in humility and service. McCadden sets a powerful example of what it means to serve with purpose, and the college is a better place because of her presence.
Mary Jones, administrative operations and technology manager for Campus Safety, received the award in the exempt category. Jones began working in Campus Safety as a student at Roanoke College in 1993. Her career has been marked by consistent excellence, deep compassion and quiet leadership. She is known for attentiveness and empathy, and her support for students is especially noteworthy. She recently helped one student secure the Homestretch Award to complete his education at Roanoke. Jones is also deeply involved in campus life, reflecting the heart and character of Roanoke College in every way. Her longstanding service is a testament to excellence and empathy, and her quiet influence inspires everyone who works with her.
Congratulations to the 2025 STAR Award winners! Thank you for setting a positive example for students and colleagues, and for making Roanoke College a great place to live, work and study.