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Lesley Whitener Receives 2026 CBOV Staff Leadership Award
Lesley Whitener Receives 2026 CBOV Staff Leadership Award
By Erin Marlow, Communications Specialist, Office of the Dean of the College
Lesley Whitener, Academic Coordinator for the Department of Economics, has been awarded the 2026 College Board of Visitors Staff Leadership Award. Established in 2020, this prestigious honor represents the highest recognition the College Board of Visitors awards an individual staff member.
“There are so many amazing staff members across Wake Forest who work tirelessly every day for our students, faculty, and community,” said Whitener. “To be recognized among them means so much to me. I am very grateful for this recognition and am truly honored to receive it.”
Since joining the Department of Economics three and a half years ago, Whitener has enhanced the daily function of the department by streamlining operations and designing long-term solutions for academic needs. Anticipating challenges related to the University’s transition to Workday, Whitener built a NotebookLM advising resource that faculty now rely on regularly. Addressing concerns around exam integrity, she drafted a thoughtful student code of conduct. And, when the Kirby atrium needed new life, Whitener led the renovation, creating a vibrant central lounge for student and faculty collaboration.
The level of precision and care with which Whitener handles each of her responsibilities is impressive in its own right, and especially so in one of the College’s largest departments – home to more than 500 majors and nearly 100 minors. Despite the high volume of students Whitener assists every semester, she prioritizes relationship-building and actively fosters an inclusive community where everyone feels supported and heard.
Whitener “knows students by name and story,” said Dr. Aeimit Lakdawala, Associate Chair of the Department of Economics, adding that her relational approach is matched with excellent administrative skill. “She has the kind of institutional knowledge that is indispensable during transitions in leadership, administrative systems, or University procedures.”
“Lesley makes everything in the Economics Department work better,” agrees Dr. Erik Nesson, Chair of the Department of Economics. “She is always a step ahead, ready to solve a problem, help a student or colleague, or find a new way to bring our department together.”
Whitener’s dedication, paired with her vast institutional wisdom, has solidified her reputation as a trusted resource for students and faculty alike. The department is stronger with her leadership and presence. We congratulate Lesley Whitener as this year’s co-recipient of the College Board of Visitors Staff Leadership Award.
Lesley Whitener
Academic Coordinator, Department of Economics
“Lesley makes everything in the Economics Department work better. She is always a step ahead, ready to solve a problem, help a student or colleague, or find a new way to bring our department together.”
Dr. Erik Nesson, Chair of the department of Economics
