The Iowa State University (ISU) Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology (PPEM) is celebrating a moment of pride and recognition, as Claudia Lemper-Manahl, Associate Teaching Professor, was recently named ISU Student Employee Supervisor of the Year, an honor that reflects not just individual excellence, but the strength of an entire teaching community.
Even more meaningful, one of her own students, Elizabeth Makovec, a first-year student and new team member, was also nominated for Student Employee of the Year, highlighting the culture of mentorship and collaboration within PPEM’s teaching laboratories.
For Lemper-Manahl, the award came as a complete surprise, but what made it especially impactful was how it came together.
The nomination materials were prepared collectively by colleagues and students, including teaching laboratory specialist Morgan Smith, undergraduate learning assistants, and both current and former graduate teaching assistants.
This spirit of collaboration mirrors the very environment Lemper-Manahl has worked to build.
According to her nomination, she “consistently goes beyond administrative supervision to create a genuine sense of belonging by fostering and furthering the community of Iowa State.”
Lemper-Manahl’s leadership extends far beyond managing student employees. She supervises paid undergraduate employees while also mentoring 16 undergraduate learning assistants, often up to 5 graduate teaching assistants, creating an environment where students are not only supported but also empowered.
“She demonstrates patience, empathy, and consistency with every interaction,” her nomination noted, adding that she “sets clear expectations and provides constructive feedback with kindness and respect.”
Students describe her as a mentor who transforms a job into a meaningful learning experience. Rather than assigning routine tasks, she intentionally connects work to broader career skills like communication, leadership, and problem-solving.
One graduate teaching assistant shared:
“Working under Claudia, employees know that she cares for them and their development as a scientist, career-minded individual, and person above all else.”
Her impact is lasting—many students continue to seek her mentorship long after leaving her lab.
From one-on-one mentoring to late-night prep sessions before exams, Lemper-Manahl’s dedication is deeply personal.
She takes time to understand each student’s goals and tailors responsibilities to match their strengths and aspirations. Whether helping a student prepare for graduate school or encouraging them to pursue leadership opportunities, she is known for meeting students where they are—and helping them grow.
“Many students report that working with her has been one of the most formative parts of their college experience,” her nomination stated.
That same culture of excellence is reflected in student nominee Elizabeth Makovec, whose contributions have already made a significant impact in her first year.
Described as “a wonderful addition to our team,” Makovec has demonstrated exceptional teamwork, initiative, and professionalism since joining the lab in August 2025.
“She is constantly relating her work here with her coursework and asks in-depth questions to extend these learning concepts even further,” her nomination reads.
Her ability to anticipate needs, communicate effectively, and manage her time has set her apart as a standout student employee.
“She oftentimes anticipates needs and takes care of them before even asking,” the nomination noted, emphasizing her proactive mindset and strong work ethic.
While awards recognize individual achievement, this moment highlights something even bigger: a teaching lab culture grounded in mentorship, collaboration, and shared success.
For Lemper-Manahl, the recognition is not just personal; it reflects the students and colleagues who make the work meaningful every day.
Together, they are creating more than just a learning environment, they are shaping future scientists, leaders, and collaborators who will carry that same spirit forward.