Cornell University Library recently honored student workers with the Fuerst Award in recognition of their outstanding and dedicated service to the Library during the past year.
Nominated by their supervisors and others they worked with, the five awardees come from different Library departments and locations:
- Sephera Azami ’25, Law Library
- Fatou Diaw ’25, Cornell University Library Communications
- Tamana Ghaznawi ’25, Mann Library
- Eva Telesca ’25, Catherwood Library
- Bradley Verhelle ’25, Olin Library Maps Collection
Members of library leadership, including Haven Hawley, Associate University Librarian for Special Collections and Christina Sheley, Associate University Librarian for Research, Teaching, and Engagement; surprised the students by handing out the awards unannounced during their shifts. All of the awardees happen to be graduating this year.
“Every interaction I’ve had with the Library community has not only shaped my time at Cornell but helped shape who I am and who I’m becoming,” said Diaw. “I feel so blessed to have worked alongside such thoughtful, dedicated people. I will truly miss being part of this team.”
“It’s an incredible honor to be recognized in this way,” said Ghaznawi. “Working at Mann Library has been such a meaningful part of my Cornell experience, and it’s an honor to be recognized for something I’ve truly loved being part of.”
Named after William F. Fuerst Jr. ’39, a staunch supporter of the Library, the annual award is on its 31st year and currently comes with a $1000 prize.
