College of Education’s Ariel Rocker honored with Auburn’s Employee of the Year award

For the past seven years, Ariel Rocker has been a driving force behind the scenes at Auburn University’s College of Education, ensuring that faculty, staff and students have the resources they need to succeed.

As an Administrative Support Associate II, Rocker’s role in the College of Education’s Learning Resources Center is multifaceted—spanning document accessibility, financial reconciliation, library resource management and front desk operations.

“What I enjoy most about my job is the variety of responsibilities it offers,” said Rocker, who started in the role in April 2018. “Each day is different, and that keeps me engaged and on my toes.”

Recently, Rocker’s unwavering commitment was recognized by Auburn, with the university naming her one of four distinguished employees to receive the university’s Employee of the Year award. The recognition followed Rocker’s previous selection as one of Auburn’s monthly Spirit of Excellence award recipients. Rocker said receiving the Employee of the Year award was more than just a professional milestone—it was a powerful validation of the dedication she brings to her role every day.

“Being selected for a university-wide honor like this affirmed that those efforts are making a difference,” she said. “It reminded me that the small, consistent things (being dependable, helpful, creative and solution-oriented) really do matter. It motivates me to keep growing, learning and contributing at a high level.”

Rocker works in the College of Education’s Learning Resources Center, which provides informational and instructional resources and technologies to serve and support faculty, staff and students. Jessica Garrett, who works with Rocker in the LRC, said Rocker is well deserving of the award. 

“Ariel is an essential part of the Learning Resources Center and the college,” she said. “She supports the faculty, staff and students in numerous ways and is always willing to take on additional tasks. I am very glad that Ariel was recognized with this award because all her hard work deserves to be acknowledged.”

Rocker said she is happy to know her efforts have had an impact on the college.

“I especially love being able to support others, whether it's helping faculty with accessible materials, assisting students at the front desk or stepping in to solve logistical challenges,” she said. “It’s rewarding to know my work directly contributes to smoother operations not only for my department, but the entire college.”

Rocker added that she’s grateful to be a part of the Auburn Family.

“What I love most about Auburn and the College of Education is the genuine sense of community,” she said. “It’s a place where people truly care, support each other and deeply value the work we do. I’m proud to be part of a team dedicated to making a meaningful and lasting impact.”