Nadia Orozco-Sahi, Library Services coordinator at University Libraries, has been selected as the recipient of the 2023 Career LIFT Award, sponsored by OCLC and Core: Leadership, Infrastructure, Futures.
Orozco-Sahi joined University Libraries in 2021 as a library information specialist 3 and they have quickly become involved with many projects within and beyond Access Services. Recently, Orozco-Sahi was promoted to the role of library services coordinator for reference and information services.
Recipients of the award receive $1,500 to attend an ALA conference, the Core Forum, or to take a continuing education class to grow their skill sets and careers. The award is designed to support information professionals whose passion, actions, and everyday work warrants recognition and celebration. The award honors the critical labor that goes into organizing, managing, and maintaining core library services.
Orozco-Sahi has a strong public library and bookstore experience, having worked with acquisitions, inventory, marketing, programming, reference, strategic planning, and staff training. Nadia was recognized as an ALA Emerging Leader in 2022 and has served professionally with many ALA, ACRL, CORE, and NMLA groups. They also currently chair the American Library Association (ALA) Rainbow Round Table.
“It is difficult to think of a more fitting recipient for this award. Nadia is working on so many levels to strengthen librarianship, both here in New Mexico as well and in their national professional work. They will benefit from the opportunities for learning, networking, and leadership that this award facilitates. Librarianship will benefit from Nadia’s passion and great ideas,” said Cindy Pierard, University Libraries director of access services and undergraduate engagement.
The LIFT Awards Committee was impressed by Orozco-Sahi's engagement as a chapter councilor in the New Mexico Library Association and advocacy efforts, which include launching a local mentorship program inspired by their experience as a mentee in Core’s mentorship program. In addition to evidence that they contribute to the day-to-day operations at the University of New Mexico, Orozco-Sahi's application expressed a desire to make a positive impact on the profession and to develop programs that “bring us joy, providing sustenance during difficult times.”
"Core has been an invaluable resource during my time at ALA so far, connecting me with people who have changed the trajectory of my professional career, as well as my personal growth. To be honored with this LIFT Award means being able to continue to engage meaningfully with library professionals, to be a voice in the room working towards the ideals of libraries and librarianship. I am grateful for the support and recognition,” said Orozco-Sahi.
Orozco-Sahi holds a bachelor’s degree in English language literature and Spanish, both from UNM. Their master’s degree in library and information science is from the University of Denver.