PULLMAN, Wash. — Giving creative students a productive outlet is a fun perk at a university. Finding a creative student that can plan, build up, and manage a social media platform helps the university and that student’s resume.
Emily Libey is that type of creative student who did all of that and more over the past year, resulting in numerous awards from Washington State University.
Libey, who graduates from WSU with a degree in human development on May 3, was recently named WSU Student Employee of the Year. She will also carry the gonfalon, or official banner, for the College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences (CAHNRS) at commencement.
“So many people have guided me during my time at WSU,” said Libey, a Pullman native. “I’m privileged that I encountered so many helpful faculty, staff, and advisors as a student. I feel like I’ve dipped a toe into every area of human development and CAHNRS.”
Libey’s most public-facing project has been launching the CAHNRS TikTok account. After pitching the idea to Miguel Inzunza, CAHNRS director of recruitment and retention, last summer, she developed a plan for how to make it work. Since then, she has spent many hours brainstorming, shooting, and posting weekly videos featuring student-centric content.
A self-described “chronically online” person, Libey watches trending topics and thinks about how she can spin those trends into something relevant to current and future CAHNRS students. A highlight was one of the first videos she created.
“I was so nervous because I didn’t know if anyone would trust me,” Libey said. “I asked about dumping a five-gallon bucket of water on my advisor Rich (Giles), and I just told him, ‘I need you to hear me out.’ He said yes, after watching an example video of the idea.”
Giles said Libey earned his trust over previous years working together.
“That video is a perfect example of Emily’s ability to spark enthusiasm around creative ideas,” he said. “We had talked about how important it is for students to see staff as approachable and part of their community — not just names behind emails. The TikTok challenges have been a fun way to show that we’re open, willing to be silly, and genuinely invested in connecting with our students.”
Libey has worked closely with Inzunza not only on TikTok — he has appeared in several memorable posts — but also in the CAHNRS Student Success and Academic Programs office. She served as a clerical student assistant with the Student Success team, which includes Inzunza, and as a CAHNRS Ambassadors leadership team member. Inzunza oversees the ambassadors program, through which current students help promote the college to new and existing students.
Working closely with him and CAHNRS advisors opened Libey’s eyes to new career paths like university advising or recruiting, which she now wants to pursue. She confirmed that interest over spring break in March, when she went to California with a group of apparel, merchandising, design, and textiles students, attending events and talking to potential students about WSU.
“It was so fun meeting people and telling them about life at WSU,” Libey said. “I’ve enjoyed being involved in CAHNRS in so many ways: being trusted to not only start up, but run the TikTok account, traveling to recruit new students, even meeting with college leadership about my experiences. I cherish the trust that so many people have put into me.”
Winning the WSU system-wide Student Employee of the Year Award shocked Libey, but not the people working with her. Seven people nominated her for the award, including Inzunza.
“Beyond her impressive academic and leadership accomplishments, what stands out the most about Emily is the genuine joy and positivity she brings to everything she does,” he said. “Her approachable demeanor and sense of humor make her a beloved part of our office. Emily has a unique ability to inspire those around her, encourage collaboration, and create an environment where everyone feels valued. She is not just a strong leader, she is a connector, and that’s what makes her truly special.”
The team she works with made sure she received a proper and formal invitation to carry the gonfalon.
“I was typing at my desk and four of them came up to me singing,” Libey said, laughing at the memory. “They asked if I would honor the college by carrying the banner. Representing this college that has meant so much to me is so special. I’m so excited!”
With so many high-achieving students in the college, the choice wasn’t easy, but it was obvious, according to Inzunza.
“She embodies everything we value in CAHNRS — enthusiasm, dedication, and a genuine passion for making others feel welcome and included,” he said. “Her energy is contagious, and she uplifts every space she enters.”
Libey will continue working for CAHNRS through the summer as she considers her next steps. She eventually wants to attend graduate school but isn’t sure if she wants to work for a bit before pursuing an advanced degree.
“No matter where I wind up, I want to be creative and find people that will trust me,” Libey said. “I’ve loved my entire time at WSU and am excited to see what comes next!”