Colleagues describe April Kuykendall as creative, dedicated, supportive and compassionate — attributes that serve her well as she works to help students succeed in the G. Brint Ryan College of Business.
In addition to teaching classes on organizational behavior and leadership in the Department of Management, Kuykendall serves as departmental advisor, spending countless hours helping students with their management degree plans. When COVID hit, she jumped to adapt to virtual advising.
President Neal Smatresk recognized Kuykendall as the February 2022 Brand Ambassador of the Month yesterday during one of her classes in the Business Leadership Building, where students agreed she is one of their favorite instructors.
“We have heard so many incredible things about how you advise students, what a great teacher you are, how you run wonderful events for the students,” Smatresk said at the surprise presentation. “We need more people like you.”
Kuykendall is a two-time alumna of UNT, with both a bachelor's degree and Master of Business Administration from the university.
“I love what I do,” she said. “It's a true blessing to work for this great university. I bleed green, and everything I do is for the students.”
Kuykendall has been recognized as the Department of Management's Teacher of the Year twice since she started teaching at the university in Fall 2004.
“Her work ethic and job performance shine with UNT's bold goals as she demonstrates leadership in student advising,” says a colleague. “Her loyalty and pride in the university shine though in every task she completes.”
If you have a colleague you would like to be considered for this award, email brandambassador@unt.edu with a description of why you're nominating the individual. The award recipient must exhibit at least four of the 12 UNT brand attributes.