Amy Tratt, assistant director for student affairs in the Michigan State University College of Education, was recognized for her work with student-athletes at the annual Football Awards banquet. She received the 2018 George Stephen Scofes Academic Spartan of the Year Award, which honors faculty and staff who stand out in their efforts to help student-athletes off the field, particularly in academic pursuits.
“I was beyond surprised when I was contacted about the award,” said Tratt, who works with Kinesiology students. As an advisor, she helps students with their academic plans and requirements, among other integral elements for educational success.
Amy Tratt smiles after receiving her award. She is joined by members of the Scofes family, including George Stephen Scofes (far right) and Stephen G. Scofes (far left). Todd Edwards, the executive director of Student-Athlete Support Services (back row), presented Tratt with the honor.
Tratt, who joined the Student Affairs Office in 2006 and has more than 30 years of experience as an administrator, instructor and advisor in higher education, was recognized for her effective communication with her fellow staff and students.
“Her guidance to student-athletes, as well as her communication with our staff, is second-to-none,” said Todd Edwards, executive director of Student-Athlete Support Services (SASS). “She plays a crucial role in supporting students throughout their time here.”
The award has a long-standing tradition with the Michigan State University football program, dating to around the 1940s. Originally, football award banquets were for players, family and media, and didn’t recognize the faculty and staff who supported the students. This award was implemented to honor those individuals. The SASS staff who work with football select a winner for the annual honor.
“Our advising staff in the college works with about 115 MSU varsity athletes,” Tratt said. She is one of four Kinesiology counselors on the larger team of eight advisors within the entire college. “We all enjoy the opportunity to help them be as successful in the classroom as they are on the field, on the court, in the pool or on the track.”