Utah State Econ and Finance Major Jake Stevens

Utah State University senior Jake Stevens, a dual major in economics and finance in the College of business, was recently selected as a 2002 National Co-op of the Year Finalist by the national Cooperative Education and Internship Association.

Stevens was nominated for this award jointly by his co-op employer, Toyota Motor Sales in Torrance, Calif., and the College of Business Cooperative Education office.

He was recognized for completing two internship experiences — at Toyota Motor Sales as a management intern and at Benetton Sportsystems as a marketing intern.

College of Business Dean Caryn Beck-Dudley presented Stevens with a certificate and accompanying letter from the Cooperative Education and Internship Association and the Cooperative Education Division of the American Society of Engineering Education at a recent Partners in Business luncheon.

"This is an exciting honor and further validation that the College of Business is a school of opportunity for our students," Beck-Dudley said. "Mr. Stevens seized upon the opportunities made available to him, and we are proud that he is included among the best of the best from around the country."

Len Wong, with Toyota Motor Sales, said the company was extremely pleased with the work Stevens completed. "Based on the fantastic level of success we enjoy, our company is very selective in the overall evaluation and hiring process due to the high level of skill, professionalism, and interpersonal skills that we demand," he wrote in the nominating letter. "Mr. Stevens has performed at such an exemplary level that he has raised the standard for all interns following him."

The Cooperative Education office was equally enthusiastic in the nomination of Stevens, said Shauna Karren, supervisor of the Cooperative Education office in the College of Business. Stevens exhibited exceptional professionalism during his internships, and afterward he became a strong advocate for co-op/internships and the importance of gaining career-related experience, she said. Through many presentations, Stevens shared his knowledge with students, faculty and staff, and the business community.