The people who make it possible for nontraditional students to attend class, study for exams and work for rent money or groceries are being rewarded.

As National Nontraditional Student Recognition Week begins next week, the MSU Family Resource Center is honoring faculty and staff members who have helped married students, commuters, military service members or those who have other unusual circumstances maintain their busy schedules.

Individuals are recognized for their understanding and flexibility with students who are juggling responsibilities.

"Nontraditional students nominate these faculty for this honor," said Michelle Artibee, an administrative assistant at the center.

"There is no first, second or third place for the award."

Artibee said a nontraditional student is someone who is older than 24 years old and has other responsibilities outside school, such as a child, marriage or full-time career.

The center tries to get students to communicate with their professors so they are on the same page, Artibee said.

"There are numerous examples of professors trying to help out these students," she said.

"Some professors allow students to bring children to school if a babysitter cancels, and (they) can be lenient with schedules, too."

Laurie Medina, an associate professor in anthropology, was nominated for this honor.

Medina said it was easy to compromise with the student who nominated her because she could relate.

"I have two children of my own, and I was given the opportunity to take maternity leave from teaching when I had both of them," Medina said.

"An undergraduate who is trying to juggle school and something like a pregnancy would have a tough time with this, so I try my best to accommodate them the best I can."

Medina helped create an alternative schedule that would allow the student to finish the class prior to her due date.

"The student was an excellent student and always spoke up during discussion in class," Medina said.

Carrie Anna Courtad, a doctoral student in the special education department who is married with two children, said the professors in her department have always been considerate of her other responsibilities.

"The professor I nominated told me that the department is very family-friendly and that family comes first," Courtad said.

"In the past, all of the professors have been very understanding about family problems like kids being ill or missing a meeting because of family issues."

Courtad said she has never had issues with professors in her department, but said there are instances when professors are not very considerate.

"Some faculty do have stringent attendance policies that they are not willing to bend or break," Courtad said.