As an incoming student, Danielle Kogan, an Animal Sciences major in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, recognized the challenge of building community during the pandemic and took to social media to bridge the gap. She created the Instagram account @uvm_2024 as a way to share information and foster connections among her peers during a time of social distancing, which soon became a trusted resource for incoming Catamounts.

Recognizing her innovative community-building efforts, the Department of Student Life swiftly recruited Kogan to join UVM BORED, a student-run event calendar, blog, and social media brand that serves to keep students from ever feeling, well—bored. Over the past four years, Kogan has steadfastly guided BORED as the Team Lead, ensuring its platforms remained relevant and useful for her peers.

In a testament to her outstanding commitment and service to the UVM community, Kogan was honored during National Student Employment Week as the University of Vermont’s 2023-24 Student Employee of the Year.

Maddie White, Kogan's supervisor and nominator, lauded her perseverance and dedication, emphasizing how she has not only kept the BORED Team afloat during a period of transition but also propelled it forward. “Danielle’s dependable and thoughtful leadership have made her a trusted source of support and information on campus,” writes White. “It’s a responsibility that she carries with pride.”

The Student Employee of the Year award is given out each spring during National Student Employee Week to recognize and appreciate the invaluable service of both student employees and student employment professionals.

‘‘Working on UVM BORED impacted my time at UVM in so many ways,” Kogan shares. “It meant I was constantly learning and going to events, which lead me to make some of my favorite memories. I have formed so many wonderful connections and relationships with club leaders, UVM staff and faculty, and the Burlington community.’’

Congratulations for this well-earned honor, Danielle!