From the 2009 Faculty and Staff Excellence Awards:
Layton Borkan, Director of Counseling and Psychological Services, has served Portland State University for 22 years. The nomination portfolio for the Cumpston Award is a testament to her demonstrated excellence in service to students at Portland State.
Through a strong commitment to student health and services, Layton has made a substantial positive impact on the health and well being of PSU students. As the leading force behind the Suicide Prevention Task Force and the Students of Concern Committee, Layton has established an important support structure for distressed individuals, offering needed guidance and support through the most difficult of times.
Often referred to as the clinician's clinician, Layton also provides support for colleagues on a regular basis. Bringing a healthy, calm context to varying situations, she offers a centered presence for those completing difficult work. Her care and compassion go beyond traditional borders, providing help both to those she serves and those she supervises.
Layton has served Portland State in the role of an educator as well. Working with the Graduate School of Social Work, she has mentored many people during their time as students and beyond. As a major force in the training program for social work trainees, Layton has helped transition many graduate students into careers in the community. Through her work with University Studies she has aided in forging connections between the University and the surrounding community.
The Mary H. Cumpston Award for Service to Students is given annually to an academic professional or unranked university administrator who has demonstrated excellence in the area of service to students. Mary H. Cumpston was a beloved colleague whose enduring contributions to Portland State University and to the community have enhanced the development and delivery of student services. Her gift was the ability to identify individual and University needs and to match these needs with creative and effective solutions.