BROOKINGS, S.D. (9-23-26) — Nadine Farber, senior secretary for undergraduate admissions, has been named South Dakota State University’s Civil Service Employee of the Month for September.
She will be honored at a reception held from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 30, in the Office of Admissions lobby at the Enrollment Services Center.
Farber’s attentiveness, commitment and welcoming nature have all been praised by her coworkers and supervisors. Her dedication to every aspect of her work as the office’s front desk representative has set her apart as an outstanding employee.
Since starting at SDSU in 2005, Farber has been a cornerstone of the undergraduate admissions office. She handles her role with seriousness, care and diligence, her colleagues said. Her devotion over the years is a testament to her belief in SDSU’s mission and her aspiration to serve others with excellence.
“Nadine represents the best of SDSU,” said Shawn Helmbolt, assistant vice president for enrollment management. “Her impact is felt by countless prospective students, families, alumni and campus partners who encounter her as their first point of contact in the Office of Admissions.”
Farber is described as someone who has completely embraced her role. She holds a deep understanding that what she does truly matters and makes a difference in people’s lives. Each day, she treats every campus visitor as a uniquely important individual, greeting them with her signature, “Welcome to SDSU. Are you here for a visit?”
“She holds commitment, loyalty and determination,” said Lisa Schramm, assistant director of new student scholarships. “More than that, she has quietly set an extraordinary standard: True dedication is not merely to ‘a job,’ but to this specific calling within the Office of Admissions.”
Farber is not only exceptional in her work but is always willing and ready to step in and support others whenever is needed. Her sense of humor and positive attitude help create an environment where people feel supported, comfortable and connected.
“She does not simply meet expectations, she elevates them,” Helmbolt said. “Her professionalism, kindness and calm presence create an environment that reflects positively on SDSU and reinforces the sense of community and belonging we strive to offer all who walk through our doors.”
“The tight-knit culture that defines the admissions office today is due in large part to Nadine’s presence, warmth and consistency over the years,” said Lexi Holen, assistant director of recruitment programs. “As she looks toward a well-earned retirement in near future, our office knows it will deeply miss her radiant smile, positive energy and the sense of welcome she so effortlessly brings each day.”
Farber has been married to her husband, Brad, for 42 years. Together, they have three daughters and eight grandchildren. She is a member of Bruce Community Club and enjoys hanging out with family, going to the lake and reading.
All SDSU Employee of the Month selections are determined through a nomination process by the Civil Service Advisory Council. Each civil service employee of the month receives an appreciation monetary gift from the F.O. Butler Foundation. The trustees of the foundation recognize the importance of civil service employees and take this opportunity to thank them for their exemplary service.
About South Dakota State University
Founded in 1881, South Dakota State University is the state’s Morrill Act land-grant institution as well as its largest, most comprehensive school of higher education. SDSU confers degrees from seven different colleges representing more than 230 majors, minors and specializations. The institution also offers 39 master’s degree programs, 17 Ph.D. and two professional programs.
The work of the university is carried out on a residential campus in Brookings, at sites in Sioux Falls, Pierre and Rapid City, and through Extension offices and Agricultural Experiment Station research sites across the state. SDSU’s research expenditures for the 2025 fiscal year were more than $94 million. SDSU has a Doctoral University: High Research Activity designation on The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
For more information: SDSU News • www.sdstate.edu
— From SDSU University Marketing and Communications
