Nicole Destefano
Nicole Destefano

Nicole Destefano
Employment Branding College Recruiter
Granite Telecommunications

Nominated For: The Rising Star Award

This award recognizes the early-career recruitment professionals who are already driving impact and pushing the industry forward, despite being newer to the university recruitment space. With fresh perspectives and a finger on the pulse of Gen Z, they’re helping their teams better understand and engage today’s candidates. Whether through standout events, stronger messaging, or elevating candidate experience, these individuals are shaping the future of recruitment from day one.

From the Community: Why this Nominee Stands Out

To be considered for the CRCAs, individuals had to be nominated by a peer, manager, colleague, or direct report. These quotes were shared by the people who nominated this person for recognition, highlighting the impact and excellence they’ve demonstrated.

“Nicole has made a significant impact in her role as a college recruiter. She is frequently onsite at various campuses, actively tabling for branding purposes, and ensuring Granite’s presence is known among students and faculty alike. Over the years, Nicole has built strong, trusting relationships with career services teams across a dozen campuses, making her an invaluable asset. Her reputation as a reliable resource has made her the go-to person for colleagues seeking to increase recruiting activity, whether for current students looking for internships or upcoming graduates seeking full-time opportunities. Nicole’s proactive and engaged approach has made her a driving force in expanding Granite’s recruitment efforts and strengthening its ties with higher education institutions.”

“Nicole consistently brings a fresh perspective to early career and campus recruiting. She is always positive and brings an energetic presence to campus events to inform the incoming early professionals about Granite. This past spring alone she scheduled and coordinated over 30 events to expand the Granite Brand at college events and with outreach organizations. Due to her hard work, Granite Telecom will have over 60 Gen Z interns in Summer 2025 with the hopes of bringing them on full time in 2026 upon graduation. Her work ethic and commitment to the candidate process is exemplary!”

“Nicole has hired over 300 college grads! She is AWESOME and makes it known she loves working for early talent. Whether it is on the campus or in a class room presentation, she works with Gen Z candidates and does a great job at it!”

“Nicole truly cares about each candidate she speaks to whether it is an intern candidate or an upcoming college grad. She is very personable and loves her job! She deserves this!”

Vote for Nicole Destefano as the winner of the Rising Star Award by voting through the form below! 

 

Congratulations to Nicole for being nominated for the Rising Star Award, part of RippleMatch's 2025 Campus Recruiting Choice Awards!

Explore all Award categories and this year's standout nominee class by clicking the button below:


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