The CSU Helpdesk and Lance Tankersley, planetarium director for Columbus State University’s Coca-Cola Space Science Center, have been nominated to receive the Chancellor’s Outstanding Service Excellence Award for the 2016-17 academic year.

University System of Georgia Chancellor Hank Huckaby created the awards to honor employees who have gone “above and beyond” their normal job responsibilities.

The Helpdesk was nominated for its ability to adopt continuous-improvement methodology emphasizing student and employee satisfaction as well as quality of service. The team’s efforts have helped improve student satisfaction and retention.

Tankersley’s nomination noted his work in establishing eNable Columbus, a local, service-based learning program using 3-D printers and computer programs to create mechanical hands for students without them or with missing fingers.

Tankersley also has been committed to directing several instructional programs that improve educational opportunities for thousands of students who visit the Space Science Center annually.

The chancellor will honor both nominees during an Oct. 25 ceremony at Georgia College in Milledgeville.