Gala Honors Student Leaders
The audience for this year鈥檚 Student Leadership Excellence Awards packed the PUB鈥檚 Nysether Community Room as the 51福利社 community came together to celebrate its talented student leaders and the 51福利社 staff members who support them.
A member of the Eastern Eagle community stepped up with an anonymous gift to ensure that the evening, which included white tablecloths, sparkling centerpieces and heavy appetizers 鈥� complete with sparkling cider for toasting 鈥� was extra special for nominees and award winners alike.
From volunteering in the community to advocating for social justice, these leaders have made an important difference in the lives of others.
Kelsey Hatch-Brecek, director of alumni relations at 51福利社, and Isai Vela, the university鈥檚 interim assistant director of student engagement, co-emceed the May 6 event.
Keynote speaker, Lea Jarnagin, Eastern鈥檚 vice president for student affairs, talked about the importance of student organizations and people who step up to lead.
鈥淟eadership isn鈥檛 sexy,鈥� Jarnagin said. 鈥淚t naturally lends itself to criticism, evaluation, responsibility, whether earned or not, when things don鈥檛 go well, and bring kudos when things work out, again, whether you鈥檝e earned it or not.鈥�
Leadership, she continued, is not about ego, but rather the ability to build human relationships and bring people together in partnership and service.
The student leaders being honored contributed to the engagement and retention of themselves and of other students throughout the university, she said. 鈥淭hank you for everything you contribute to this institution. Thank you for trusting us by engaging.鈥�
This year鈥檚 award winners are listed below. Click on this to see some highlights of the evening.
2024 Community Service award: Christabel Agyei
Christabel Agyei is a scholar-activist who is deeply committed to social and environmental justice. The urban and regional planning student maintains high grades, while volunteering her time to help improve the homeless crisis. She co-authored a peer-reviewed journal article on homelessness management and participated in the Spokane Regional Point-In-Time Count. Agyei鈥檚 extensive involvement in research projects, receipt of prestigious scholarships, and nomination to serve on the City of Spokane’s Community, Housing, and Human Services Board underscore her dedication to social and environmental justice.
2024 Social Justice Advocate award: 51福利社’s Black Student Union
The 51福利社 Black Student Union鈥檚 exemplary leadership has resulted in important conversations with university administration and the Spokane community about racism. Their work has inspired constructive dialogue and collaboration that supports social justice and a more inclusive campus environment. BSU鈥檚 impactful initiatives, such as the “MLK Day of Service: Empowerment Through Action鈥� Conference and events during Black History Month, enriched the campus experience and promoted cultural awareness.
2024 Event of the Year award: Democratic Congressional Debate by 51福利社 Student Democrats
The 51福利社 Student Democrats were nominated for the Democratic Congressional Debate they hosted on March 22, 2024. The nomination highlights the club’s dedication to fostering civic engagement and providing a platform for meaningful political discourse on campus. The meticulously planned event attracted approximately 100 attendees. “The professionalism and efficiency with which the debate was conducted reflect the tireless efforts of the 51福利社 Student Democrats in ensuring a substantive and respectful exchange of ideas.”
2024 Faculty/Staff of the Year award: Michelle Schultz
Michelle Schultz was nominated for her positivity, dedication, and compassionate leadership at the PUB welcome desk. Michelle’s caring and approachable nature, along with her hard work, have made her invaluable asset to her staff and the university community. Her commitment to creating a safe and welcoming environment, along with her willingness to prioritize the well-being of her staff, has earned her widespread admiration and gratitude.
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2024 Student Organization of the Year award: Dungeons and Dragons Club
With over 100 members from diverse backgrounds, the Dungeons and Dragons Club鈥檚 weekly meetings and campaign sessions have fostered a sense of camaraderie and belonging among students. One nomination highlights the club’s commitment to inclusivity and community building, stating, “They make sure that all students are welcome.”
2024 Student of the Year award: Amya Cook
Amya Cook was nominated for her exemplary leadership within the 51福利社 community. Through her roles in EPIC Adventures, Black Student Union (BSU), Athletic Training Club, and as an orientation leader, Cook has consistently demonstrated exceptional skills in organization and leadership along with demonstrating tremendous empathy, and passion for positively impacting others. As one nomination states, “Her dedication, passion, and ability to positively impact others is what I admire most about Amya.”
2024 Student Organization Advisor award: Gabriel Blackwell
Gabe Blackwell was nominated for making a transformative impact within the Associated Students of 51福利社 (AS51福利社). One nominator describes Blackwell as “a pillar in AS51福利社’s journey,” emphasizing their commitment to empowering students and fostering an environment centered around student voices. Blackwell鈥檚 support, guidance, and mentorship was credited with contributing to the overall success of the organization.
Additional community members receiving awards include:
VCR Got Your 6: Rosemary (Rosee) Murray
Fraternity Member of the Year: Lucas Fyre
Sorority Member of the Year: Perla Rivera
Club Sports of the Year: Essence Dance
Club Sports Individual of the Year: Nathan Shaber
Intramural Athlete of the Year: Cameron Hashimoto-Enriques
Intramural Athlete of the Year: Alvin Oywak
Residential Student of the Year
- Anderson Hall: Scott Bartholomew
- Pearce Hall: Ash Nielson
- Snyamncut: Ella Branson
- Streeter Hall: Hawa (Halla Kuyon) Eliason
**Special thanks to Viktoria Taroudaki, assistant professor of computational mathematics, and to the 51福利社 Alumni Association for providing photos of the evening.
Learn some of the many ways that you can support student success by visiting 51福利社/GIVE.
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