Hailen Ackerman Named Graduate Student Employee of the Year
Minnesota State Moorhead is proud to recognize Hailen Ackerman as the 2026 Graduate Student Employee of the Year.
This award, presented during National Student Employment Week, honors graduate student employees who demonstrate exceptional leadership, professionalism, and commitment to student success.
Hailen was selected from an impressive group of nominees, highlighting the strength and impact of graduate student employees across campus. MSUM is fortunate to have so many dedicated individuals contributing their time, talent, and expertise in meaningful ways.
Currently in his final year of the Educational Leadership doctoral program, Hailen has served the Office of Graduate and Extended Learning for nearly five years. Throughout that time, he has made a lasting impact on hundreds of students through his work in recruitment, admissions, and graduation support. Often serving as the first point of contact, Hailen consistently represents MSUM with professionalism, care, and a deep sense of purpose.
Hailen is known for his adaptability and problem-solving mindset. During the 2024 cyberattack, he quickly pivoted to manual processes to ensure operations continued without disruption. His ability to remain calm, focused, and solution-oriented in the face of challenges reflects his strong critical thinking skills and unwavering commitment to students.
In addition to his operational contributions, Hailen plays a key role in supporting both students and colleagues. He regularly assists graduating students with troubleshooting and navigating systems, and he has developed processes that improve workflows and maintain continuity across initiatives. He is also a mentor to his peers, creating a supportive environment and helping others succeed in their roles.
Hailen’s work is grounded in a strong commitment to equity and access. He consistently advocates for students and approaches his work with a mindset centered on inclusion and opportunity. His attention to detail and integrity are evident in all he does, including his care and diligence in identifying and addressing complex issues.
Above all, Hailen embodies the values of Minnesota State University Moorhead. His loyalty to the institution, belief in its mission, and dedication to its students are evident in every interaction. He is not only an exceptional graduate assistant but also a trusted and valued member of the campus community.
Congratulations, Hailen, on this well-deserved recognition, and thank you for your meaningful contributions to MSUM and its students.