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The first-ever Student Life Awards took place on Wednesday, April 9, 2008. The event was initiated by Chris Kendall, vice president of student development. The awards were meant to acknowledge the hard work and achievements of students, faculty and staff associated with various offices and student groups on the Saint Mary's University Winona campus. |
Brother Finbar McMullen Award
The Brother Finbar McMullen Award is presented to a professional member of the Saint Mary's University Winona campus who unselfishly meets the needs of the undergraduate community.
This year's winner was Nikki Richmond. Richmond works as office manager for Campus Ministry and is secretary for Student Activities, Leadership, and Service.
At right, award name-sake Brother Finbar McMullen with Nikki Richmond.
Charlene "Char" Tjaden
Outstanding Resident Assistant Award
The Charlene "Char" Tjaden Outstanding Resident Assistant Award is presented to an R.A. who acts as a leader and a mentor, and listens to and encourages their residents while being committed to the values of the Office of Residence Life.
The Outstanding Resident Assistant was Gary Borash. Borash is currently an R.A. for Saint Benilde Hall.
At right, Gary Borash with award name-sake Char Tjaden. |
Adviser of the Year
There are over 80 clubs and organizations offered at Saint Mary's. Many of the experiences that participation provides - like learning how to lead meetings, budget, and put on meaningful events and activities for the SMU community - would not be possible without the time, mentorship and dedication of advisers.
Student Senate presented Nancy Edstrom this award for her many years of work as adviser to BUDDIES, a program that brings students and developmentally delayed children together. Edstrom is a senior lecturer of interdisciplinary studies at SMU.
At right, Student Senate President John Freeman with Nancy Edstrom.
Club and Organization of the Year
Every year, clubs and organizations are honored by Student Senate for conducting quality activities, volunteering within the community, budgeting responsibly, and reporting back to them in an efficient manner.
The Club and Organization of the Year was Habitat for Humanity. Saint Mary's University Habitat for Humanity is coordinated by students Abby Zimmer and Angela Buck, and is advised by Andy McLees.
At right, Student Senate President John Freeman with Abby Zimmer and Angela Buck.
Outstanding Senator of the Year
The Student Senate Outstanding Senator of the Year award is given to a senator who displays leadership in vocalizing their opinions while remaining sensitive to those of others.
Neil Leibundguth was chosen as Outstanding Senator by his peers. Leibundguth is a junior class officer and vice president of media communication.
At right, Student Senate President John Freeman with Neil Leibundguth. |
Intramural MVP
An Intramural MVP is a student who has excelled in leadership and sportsmanship through intramural participation.
This year, the decision came down to two students who were equally deserving of this honor. During their college career, roommates Lee Coleman and John Geske have participated in numerous activities including softball, dodgeball, volleyball and basketball, serving as captains who have lead their teams to championships.
At right, Kami Ward, director of intramurals, with John Geske and Lee Coleman. |
Volunteer of the Year Award
The Volunteer of the Year Award is given to a senior who has dedicated their time and talents to volunteering for local non-profit groups. This individual must have volunteered at least three times this year for different area organizations. Fulfillment of responsibilities and a good working relationship with the Office of Volunteer Services and its student mentors is also required.
This year's winner was Brittany Staver. Staver has volunteered for Gifts for Winona and at Goodview School's silent auction, babysat for Mother of Pre-Schoolers (MOPS), and helped with both the clean-up and rebuilding stages after the August floods.
At right, Maria Borgerson, student activities committee member, with Brittany Staver. |
Winona Community Service Award
Campus Ministry presented the Winona Community Service Award to two students this year. The award honors seniors who have contributed to the Winona area through community service during their entire time at Saint Mary's University.
The first recipient of this year's award was Jess Evers. Evers has been an influential member of the BUDDIES program and has taught religion classes in Winona.
The second recipient of this year's award was Abby Zimmer. Zimmer is a member of the campus chapter of Habitat for Humanity, serving on its executive board. She has been instrumental in organizing the club's fundraising.
At right, Eric Schmidt, director of Campus Ministry, with Jess Evers and Abby Zimmer.
Brother James Miller Campus Ministry Award
The Brother James Miller Award, presented by Campus Ministry, recognizes the work of one or two members of the senior class. It is named after Brother James Miller, who gave his life to improve the lives of poor, politically oppressed people in Latin America.
The first recipient of this year's award was Laura Holupchinski. Holupchinski is a member of Peace and Justice, SOUL Council, and various other organizations on campus, working tirelessly to promote the mission of Brother James.
The second recipient of this year's award was Tony Freeman. Freeman is a member of the Campus Ministry Leadership Council, works to promote an understanding of and cooperation among different religious denominations of campus, and has been a crucial part of the success of Power Hour.
At right, Laura Holupchinski, director of Campus Ministry Eric Schmidt, and Tony Freeman. |
Student Service Award 
The Student Service Award is presented by Student Development in recognition and appreciation of outstanding service and contribution to student life at Saint Mary's.
Kasey Schultz is this year's winner of the Student Service Award. Schultz has volunteered as part of Spruce Up Winona and an initiative to clean SMU's trails, she has lead the swimming and diving team as captain, is president of the Cardinal Athletic Council, and belongs to three honor societies, among other activities.
At right, Chris Kendall, vice president for student development, and Kasey Schultz. |
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