2024 Student Awards

2024 STUDENT AWARDS BANQUET
THURSDAY, APRIL 25, 2024
Chestnut Room, Kilcawley Center
6:00 P.M.

The Student Awards Banquet is a very special night because we celebrate the many outstanding students, organizations and support staff that have helped make the 2023-24 school year such a resounding success. Each year this event is sponsored by Student Government, Student Affairs, and Student Activities.

All student and organizational awards, Student Affairs and Student Government Association awards are given that night.  Some of the highlighted awards include the AVI Leadership Scholarships, Hirsch-Satrum Leadership Scholarships, Emerging Leader Program recognition, Student Government’s Awards, Presidential Mentors and most notably concludes with the YSU Pin Awards.

Since 1948 the award has been a distinguished part of Youngstown State University’s rich tradition. The YSU Pin Award recognizes up to five graduating seniors annually who have achieved academic success and demonstrated outstanding leadership, motivation, and creativity in university and community activities.

Honorees will receive their awards at the Annual Student Awards Banquet, scheduled for Thursday, April 25, 2024.

Awards menu

The Orion Award

  • Poetry Club

    Presenter

    Sophie Hecht, Success Coordinator, First Year Student Services

    Recipient

    Poetry Club, Sara Khan, President

    The purpose of their organization is to bring together like-minded lovers of poetry and provide opportunities for members to perform and publish their work. This group has held several events but, a core facet of their club is Poets Anonymous, a weekly workshop where they provide students with a safe space to process and share their emotions through verse. The club has collaborated with community organizations and local venues as well as connected with students from all over campus. They have cultivated a passionate community of student poets who embrace differences and uplift student voices.

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The Constellation Award

  • Sigma Chi Fraternity - Roquacade

    Presenter

    Caleb Queen, Coordinator of Student Involvement, Student Activities

    Recipient

    Sigma Chi Fraternity, David Kos, President

    “Cancer is something that has or will affect everyone in some way at some point in their life. By bringing people together, we can all be a part of the fight and come one step closer to being the generation to end cancer.” Each year Roquacade continues to grow from its first year of yielding a $500 donation to the Huntsman Cancer Foundation, to last year reaching $11,000, to this past March reaching the $20,000 mark. We are incredibly proud of this group of brothers for surpassing their goals and contributing to this important cause.

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The Nova Award

  • Pre-Physician Assistant Society

    Presenter

    Dr. Jill Tall, Associate Professor, Biological Sciences, College of STEM

    Recipient

    Pre-Physician Assistant Society, Gianna Mediati, President

    The Pre-Physician Assistant Society has had the opportunity to positively impact student life by helping students prepare and become more informed about not only what a Physician Assistant is, but also, the steps needed to get into a PA Program. Their group is also passionate about serving the community. They partnered with the Women's Basketball Team to host a toy drive for children at a local hospital. Additionally, they have volunteered at a local nursing home to spend time talking and playing games with the residents. The Pre-PA Society is determined to help students be the most prepared, have the resources they need to stand out, and be at ease as they apply and interview to get into the schools of their dreams.

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Club Sport of the Year

  • Women's Volleyball Club

    Presenter

    Micahel Hettinger, Coordinator of Competitive Sports and Summer Camps, Campus Recreation

    Recipient

    Women's Volleyball Club, Halle Slater, President

    The Volleyball Club has had a noticeable presence this year. The club attended multiple events as a group throughout the year, such as Don’t Worry, Be Hoppy and Fall Fire Fest. Additionally, they assisted an academic department performing a study involving knee stress stemming from high impact sports. The club also had an extremely successful year on the field, recruiting many new members and winning tournaments at John Carroll and Clarion, with notable wins over Akron and the YSU Club Sports Rival, Carnegie Mellon. The club has also worked diligently to increase the community aspect of club sports through partnering with the Men’s Volleyball Club on multiple practices and coordinating a joint fundraiser.

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Club Sports Member of the Year

  • David Ristvey

    Presenter

    Michael Hettinger, Coordinator of Competitive Sports and Summer Camps, Campus Recreation

    Recipient

    David Ristvey, President, Men's Baseball Club

    As Vice President of the Club Sports Executive Board, David has been instrumental in their reorganization and oversees all club vice presidents. At the beginning of this semester, he took on the additional role of Club Social Media lead, and along with one of our supervisors created our Club Sports Instagram page which has grown to have over 150 followers and average viewing of 1000 people per post in just a semester. David also serves as the president of the Baseball Club, and even through a rocky semester due to weather has always ensured the club is successful and adhering to club policies. He is a great resource for our clubs and has been a pleasure to work with.

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Libra Award

  • Chi Sigma Iota - Dr. Jake J. Protivnak

    Presenter

    William T. Horn, Chi Sigma Iota

    Recipient

    Dr. Jake J. Protivnak, Counseling Program Director, Department of Psychological Sciences and Counseling, Beeghly College of Liberal Arts, Social Sciences and Education

    Dr. Protivnak has done an excellent job encouraging the growth and development of our Eta Chapter of Chi Sigma Iota since he started serving as the faculty advisor in 2009. He genuinely takes a step back and allows for the student in student organizations to shine, fostering authentic and passionate leadership that can or cannot fail at the discretion of the student; however, Dr. Protivnak acts as a safety net through his active mentorship, thus the chapter has not failed due to his leadership development of counselors in training. The chapter has been recognized on the international stage through receiving Chapter of the Year, Outstanding Individual Program, and Dr. Protivnak was awarded Outstanding Chapter Faculty Advisor. Now, he is able to add the Libra Award to his resume.

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Mentor of the Year

  • Emilie Brown

    Presenter

    Julie Centofanti, Nominator

    Recipient

    Emilie Brown, Coordinator, Outreach and Scholarships, STEM Professional Services, College of STEM

    "I met her at a STEM recruitment session, where she introduced me to the Choose Ohio First STEM Research Program. My dream has always been to pursue a career in the medical field. During the last three years, she helped me earn a position in the lab working on Alzheimer’s Research. Through the research I gained at YSU, I also earned a position researching at Northeast Ohio Medical University. Without Mrs. Brown, it would have been extremely difficult for me to gain research experience, and therefore, gain admission to NEOMED. Mrs. Brown has also served as a mentor through the Phi Kappa Phi Honors Society. We have worked together to organize countless volunteer projects, including item drives for human trafficking victims. Mrs. Brown’s servant heart and willingness to help everyone has touched every student and staff member at the STEM College, and I am incredibly fortunate to be one of them." -Julie Centofanti"

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The Decrane-Houser Memorial Scholarship

  • Lucy Allen

    Presenter

    Fr. Jonah Pollock, O.P., Chaplain, YSU Newman Center

    Recipient

    Lucy Allen, Student

    Lucy is completing her junior year at YSU studying Integrated Math Education. She aspires to be a teacher, seeing education as a way to live out her Catholic faith and to be of service to others. In Lucy’s words, “I want to put my everything into educating and guiding students toward successful and holy lives. Lucy is an active member of the Catholic Penguins community here at YSU, keeping social media outlets current, serving as a lector at liturgies, and radiating life and joy to all

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  • Joseph Carlini

    Presenter

    Fr. Jonah Pollock, O.P., Chaplain, YSU Newman Center

    Recipient

    Joseph Carlini, Student

    Joseph is completing his sophomore year as a student of Biology/Pre-Med. He hopes to become a doctor and to care for communities in need. Joseph’s Catholic upbringing and faith in God have fostered in him a selfless and compassionate attitude, which shapes his academic goals and his personal volunteering. He is a member of the Sokolov Honors College and the National Honors Society. Joseph is an officer of the Catholic Student Association at YSU and brings a kind and joyful spirit to the Catholic Penguin community.

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Cardinal Newman Service Award

  • Samuel Bevilaqua

    Presenter

    Fr. Jonah Pollock, O.P., Chaplain, YSU Newman Center

    Recipient

    Samuel Bevilacqua, Student

    Samuel will graduate this spring with a degree in electrical engineering. Sam is a server. He has served his fellow students at the St. John Henry Newman Center in several ways: as an officer in the Catholic Student Association, troubleshooting internal technology, shopping, cleaning, and, not least, as an altar server at Newman Center liturgies. Sam has also shown great fidelity in serving the needy alongside his fellow students: preparing meals for the poor and visiting the elderly. He is a most deserving recipient of the Cardinal Newman Service Award.

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Avi Leadership Scholarships

  • Batool Alkarain

    Presenter

    Clarence Cannon, General Manager, AVI Foodsystems, Inc.

    Recipient

    Batool Alkarain, Student

    Student Involvement Highlight: International Student Organization, Students for Justice in Palestine, International Business Organization, Student Government Association

    Tiffany Moore, WCBA Academic Operations Specialist stated, “Batool is an excellent communicator and has shown her abilities to be a leader. She is dedicated, resourceful, energetic and a highly motivated individual in her academics and community affairs. She is going to make a tremendous impact in the business world.”

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  • Jenna Billet

    Presenter

    Clarence Cannon, General Manager, AVI Foodsystems, Inc.

    Recipient

    Jenna Billet, Student

    Student Involvement Highlight: Student Government Association, Delta Zeta Sorority, Women's Soccer Club, Honors Trustees, Emerging Leader Program, Presidential Mentors, Student Organization for Respiratory Care

    “Within the YSU Honors Trustees, Jenna is the first to offer a helping hand. She played a critical role in key fundraising activities, such as painting driveways and selling candy bars, that has been instrumental in raising over $10,000. With her strong leadership skills and passion for helping others, she will make a positive contribution to the global community of future leaders,” shared Presley Bowser, Assistant Director of the Sokolov Honors College.

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  • Manav Ashish Desai

    Presenter

    Clarence Cannon, General Manager, AVI Foodsystems, Inc.

    Recipient

    Manav Ashish Desai, Student

    Student Involvement Highlight: Pakistani-Indian Student Association, International Student Organization, Tennis Club, Asian Student Involvement Association, Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, YSUnity, YSUScape, Dance Club, Italian Club, Turning Point USA

    Emily Carnahan his academic advisor shared, “One of the qualities that has the strongest impression upon me is Manav’s passion for helping students reflect upon cultural awareness and sharing his culture to the YSU campus. He is sensitive and strategic to creating events that bring together American and international audiences to learn that ritual, hope, and fun can unite us despite cultural differences.”

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  • Janelle Pezzuti

    Presenter

    Clarence Cannon, General Manager, AVI Foodsystems, Inc.

    Recipient

    Janelle Pezzuti, Student

    Student Involvement Highlight: Society of Women Engineers, Tau Beta Pi Honors Society, American Institute of Chemical Engineers, STEM Leadership Society, American Chemical Society, YSUScape, Tennis Club

    Paddy Taylor, her Calculus Professor, shared, “Janelle was a leader while in my class, by participating in an international math modeling competition and giving a presentation with a classmate at the math department's annual math conference. She is extremely hardworking, curious, positive, and willing to go above and beyond the usual requirements of any situation.”

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Hirsch-Satrum Leadership Scholarship

  • Carter Cook

    Presenter

    McKenzie Kobbe, Marketing Manger, Chartwells Dining Services

    Recipient

    Carter Cook, Student

    Student Involvement Highlight: Sigma Tau Gamma, Greek Campus Life, Presidential Mentors, Emerging Leader Program

    Kathy Leeper, Associate Director of Kilcawley Center shared, “Carter became a campus leader right from the start during his freshman year. Through his campus job, he has produced wonderful, effective social media content to bring students to our events. He is a natural leader with the best intentions to create positive change in whatever project he takes on.”

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  • Avinab De

    Presenter

    McKenzie Kobbe, Marketing Manger, Chartwells Dining Services

    Recipient

    Avinab De, Student

    Student Involvement Highlight: Red Cross Club and STEM Leadership Society

    Mollie Hartup, Director of the Sokolov Honors College stated, “In the last year, Avinab founded the Red Cross Club as a new YSU student organization, recruited fellow student leaders, and forged a connection with community partner, the American Red Cross. He has demonstrated an ability to lead, a deep commitment to community, and a desire to involve others in the process.”

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  • Nabayt Debesay Kibreab

    Presenter

    McKenzie Kobbe, Marketing Manger, Chartwells Dining Services

    Recipient

    Nabayt Debesay Kibreab, Student

    Student Involvement Highlight: ENACTUS, African and Caribbean Student Union, Emerging Leader Program, National Society of Black Engineers, International Business Organization, Economics Club

    Jessica Gaskell, Director of First Year Student Services noted, “Nabayt (NA-BITE) has grown and shines within our Peer Leader team. Her passion and commitment to helping her fellow international students as they are adjusting to life here at YSU has been incredible to see and be a part of. She has consistently demonstrated effective problem-solving skills and the ability to handle challenges with grace and professionalism.”

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  • Lydia Noble

    Presenter

    McKenzie Kobbe, Marketing Manger, Chartwells Dining Services

    Recipient

    Lydia Noble, Student

    Student Involvement Highlight: Student Government Association, Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers, Dance Club, Emerging Leader Program, American Society of Civil Engineers

    “Within Student Government Association, I have been consistently impressed by Lydia’s ability to foster thoughtful dialogue and her commitment to inclusive decision-making. Her positive attitude, collaborative spirit, and commitment to thoughtful inquiry make her an asset to any community,” shared Dr. Alison Kaufman, SGA Advisor.

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Multicultural Leadership Award

  • Jenna Knowles

    Presenter

    Ryan McNicholas, Director, Campus Recreation

    Recipient

    Jenna Knowles, Student

    Susan Moorer Advisor for the African and Carribean Student Union noted, “Jenna is wonderfully organized, and she is a very passionate leader. She is committed to any projects that she or the group initiates. She is creative and works extremely hard to complete a project, and most of all, Jenna is fun! She is a leader; she never waits for others to take the initiative, she always models the way, in terms of leadership. She is a wonderful person, and she has done an excellent job, as the President of African and Caribbean Student Union.”

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The Sirius Award

  • Ashley Orahood

    Presenter

    Becca McCurry, Senior Counselor, Penguin Service Center

    Recipient

    Ashley Orahood, Student Employee

    As a student office assistant in the Penguin Service Center, Ashley has been ready to complete any project given to her with the quality of work I would expect out of a professional staff member. She is always willing to go above and beyond by noticing a need and thinking of ways to fix any barriers a student may encounter. She planned an entire welcome week event devoted to helping students become familiar with the Penguin Service Center and all we have to offer. Her dedication and creativity have helped our social media account grow over 500 followers in one semester. She is a role model to other students across campus and I am grateful to have the experience to be her supervisor. While working in this role, Ashley has found her niche in higher education and plans to pursue the graduate program in Student Affairs here at YSU!

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  • Avery Sandy

    Presenter

    Samantha Nan-Callahan, Program Coordinator, Strategic Communications, Cliffe College of Creative Arts

    Recipient

    Avery Sandy, Student Employee

    Avery is a Graphic Design and Marketing Assistant for the Dean’s Office in Cliffe College of Creative Arts. He may be a student worker, but he is such a critical asset to our team, we all view him as a valued coworker. He is a talented graphic designer who is driven, organized, confident, and humble. He is a problem solver who takes on challenges with grace and a positive attitude. For almost two years, Avery has been working on the most important marketing and communication projects to be produced by our college. He’s created information graphics and collateral for our departments and degrees, visual communications for our events, and managed the development of new webpages on our college and department sites. Avery is making the most of his education and growing as a designer, but he’s also helping to share his love of graphic design, and YSU, with future students.

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The Gina Tenney Memorial Scholarship

  • Margaret Byers

    Presenter

    Kathy Leeper, Associate Director, Kilcawley Center Student Union

    Recipient

    Margaret Byers, Student

    Dalton Korda, Assistant Director of Facility Operations and Event Services shared, “Maggie has shown significant growth during her time in Kilcawley Center. She has shown leadership skills, organizational skills, is able to handle many different tasks and duties, and more. She will go the extra mile to help our patrons to the best of her ability. Maggie has not only excelled as a student employee, but she was also able to become a high achiever in the classroom and has become a leader within student organizations on campus as well.”

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  • Samantha Schuster

    Presenter

    Kathy Leeper, Associate Director, Kilcawley Center Student Union

    Recipient

    Samantha Schuster, Student

    Kathy Umble, Professor of Music shared, “Sam is a very talented music student with a wonderful excitement and dedication in all her musical pursuits. Her commitment to excellence coupled with strong musical intuition have led to many musical achievements this year, including being chosen to play for the Spring musical and having important leadership roles in the YSU Flute Ensemble. Her growth as a flutist and musician this year has been outstanding.”

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The Bernadine Marinelli Memorial Scholarship

  • Michelle Ani

    Presenters

    Kathy Leeper, Associate Director, Kilcawley Center Student Union

    R.J. Markowitz, Associate Director of Operations and Events, Kilcawley Center Student Union

    Recipient

    Michelle Ani, Student Supervisor

    Carolyn Jesko shared, “Michelle consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic, effective communication skills, and a passion for creating memorable experiences. As an emerging leader, Michelle has not only contributed to the success of Penguin Productions but has also inspired her peers. Her dedication to enhancing campus life through music and community engagement is evident in all her endeavors.”

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  • Mary Baka

    Presenters

    Kathy Leeper, Associate Director, Kilcawley Center Student Union

    R.J. Markowitz, Associate Director of Operations and Events, Kilcawley Center Student Union

    Recipient

    Mary Baka, Student Supervisor

    Veronica Erjavec, Housing Coordinator stated, “Mary stands out as a key asset to our team, serving as a reliable, trustworthy, and logical voice of reason. Her ability to approach challenges with a solutions-focused mindset is consistently invaluable. Despite being relatively early in her role as an RA, she operates with a level of confidence and expertise that is typically seen in RAs who have been in the position for years.”

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  • Emily Basista

    Presenters

    Kathy Leeper, Associate Director, Kilcawley Center Student Union

    R.J. Markowitz, Associate Director of Operations and Events, Kilcawley Center Student Union

    Recipient

    Emily Basista, Student Supervisor

    Dalton Korda, her supervisor noted, “Emily has become a terrific student leader and someone that younger students can look up to. She has worked a few different positions in Kilcawley Center and is currently the Team Lead at The Cove/Snack & Chill. She is able to stay organized, communicates well, and is willing to go the extra mile to assist those who need help while working.”

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  • Omega Ebenezer Jaricha

    Presenters

    Kathy Leeper, Associate Director, Kilcawley Center Student Union

    R.J. Markowitz, Associate Director of Operations and Events, Kilcawley Center Student Union

    Recipient

    Omega Ebenezer Jaricha, Student Supervisor

    Carmel Cerimele stated, “Omega’s ability to build relationships with others is one of his strongest qualities– making connections with residents, supporting his peers, and always striving to make others laugh. He is never afraid to ask for help, and this is a quality that is overlooked in modern-day leaders. He never ceases to bring a smile to the faces of his coworkers, supervisors, and the residents who look up to him daily.”

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  • George Kerg

    Presenters

    Kathy Leeper, Associate Director, Kilcawley Center Student Union

    R.J. Markowitz, Associate Director of Operations and Events, Kilcawley Center Student Union

    Recipient

    George Kerg, Student Supervisor

    Dale Markowski his supervisor stated, “George's outstanding time management skills have consistently set him apart. Balancing the demands of a rigorous academic schedule with the responsibilities of an RA is no small feat, yet George has consistently demonstrated an ability to meet and exceed expectations in both areas. His commitment to excellence is evident in his academic achievements and his contributions to the residential community.”

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  • Victoria Shankle

    Presenters

    Kathy Leeper, Associate Director, Kilcawley Center Student Union

    R.J. Markowitz, Associate Director of Operations and Events, Kilcawley Center Student Union

    Recipient

    Victoria Shankle, Student Supervisor

    Michael Hettinger, her current supervisor shared, “Tori has been a phenomenal resource to not only the students, but myself. In her role she helps train and oversee our Club Sports Monitors, who oversee club practices and over 325 students who are club sports participants. Tori deals with any incident or injury reports, or issues that arose the previous day and involves me when needed. Her dedication towards campus recreation and the students we work with every day is abundantly clear.

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The Emerging Leader Program

  • Emerging Leader Program 2023-2024 Cohort

    Group photo of the emerging leaders

    • Michelle Chidiebube Ani
    • Jenna Billet
    • Brooklyn M. Bokan
    • Jonathan Steven Burnell II
    • Carter Louis Cook
    • Luke Federici
    • Imani My’keya Griffin
    • Kelsey Hall
    • Alicia Hilbert
    • Omega Eben Jaricha
    • Nabayt Debesay Kibreab
    • Aaron Myers
    • Sofie Myers
    • Lydia Noble
    • Nikechi Tiffany Onunwor
    • Cory Matthew Penick
    • Nadia Rawhneh
    • Sameer Samad
    • Isha Saran-D’joula BND Sawaneh
    • Muawiyah Shariff
    • Natasha Nyahalay B. D. Sombie
    • Alyssa Weyand
    • Ilse Zijlstra

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The Student Service Award

  • Sarah Eisnaugle Bika

    Presenter

    Erin Driscoll, Executive Director, Student Experience and Residence Life

    Recipient

    Sarah Eisnaugle Bika, Coordinator, Office of College Access and Transition

    She was nominated by colleagues Lisa DeVore and Timothy Maher. Lisa shared, “Sarah is very dedicated to the students of YSU and the College Credit Plus program. She goes above and beyond to make sure every student’s needs are being addressed. Sarah also teaches part-time for the Chemical Biological Sciences department and has taught first year experience courses for STEM. She enjoys the interaction with students and is dedicated to their success. Additionally, she works with the Physics Department to plan the Physics Olympics for area high school students. Sarah also gives of her time as a volunteer judge for Lake to River Science Day, works as a mentor for low income students to help them get into college, serves as a member of the Social and Humane Concerns Society, and is a Sign Language Interpreter with Easter Seals. Sarah prides herself on always being accessible, making a positive difference in her student's lives, and ultimately seeing them succeed.

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The Gillespie-Painter Award

  • Bill D'Amico

    Presenter

    Erin Driscoll, Executive Director, Student Experience and Residence Life

    Recipient

    Bill D'Amico, Associate Director, Office of Admissions

    His supervisor Chrissie Hubert shared in her nomination, “Bill has always gone above and beyond especially when it pertains to students, both current and prospective. For several years he has served as a faculty/staff advisor for Alpha Phi Delta Fraternity. He routinely has been either nominated or chosen by school counselors to present to high school students on post-secondary education opportunities, which is outside of his regular recruitment duties. He was recently nominated to become a member of a school counselor advisor board in Pennsylvania. His nomination is based on his willingness to assist students and share his experiences with them. He is one of the staff members our Admissions Ambassadors (tour guides) seek when they need assistance or just need someone to talk to. When planning our recruitment events like Penguin Preview Days and overseeing our Experience Y Days, he looks at the program from the student/guest perspective which makes a positive impact on the experience for our visitors. These are just some of the exceptional things Bill does to help students and why is so deserving of this award!

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  • Michael Caleb Queen

    Presenter

    Joy Polkabla Byers, Associate Vice President of Student Experience

    Recipient

    Michael Caleb Queen, Coordinator of Student Involvement, Student Activities

    Carrie Anderson, shared “Upon being hired, Caleb has become a valued member of the YSU Penguin Family. He wasted no time acclimating to campus and getting to know our students and staff members. Caleb has shown a strong commitment to building and maintaining relationships. Students gravitate to him because he takes the time needed to listen, build trust, and share experiences with them. Whether it is helping a student organization get started on campus, talking with fraternity men about ways to improve their chapters, leading Emerging Leader workshops, or just talking about common interests, Caleb makes time to help each student feel welcome and heard. The implementation of CampusGroups, our student organization management system, was a large undertaking this past year. Caleb has accomplished so much in partnering not only with the company, but also working with our IT Team to make the transition a reality. Overall, Caleb is authentic with his students and they gravitate to the positive energy that he exudes. His colleagues also depend on him to help whenever he can whether it be an extra committee, to present in a class, support a program, or to be a friend.”

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The Edna K. Mcdonald Cultural Awareness Award

  • Jordan Record

    Presenter

    Joy Polkabla Byers, Associate Vice President of Student Experience

    Recipient

    Jordan Record, Graduate Assistant, Student Activities

    She was nominated by Kathy Leeper and Erin Driscoll. Erin shared, “Jordan has invested time, energy, and thought into educating our campus community about the experiences of various identities on our campus and in the world at large. She's developed and executed a panel series titled "Let's Talk About..." which brings together stakeholders from campus and beyond to address questions and share ideas about diversity related topics such as: Campus Pride, Martin Luther King, Jr., Black History and Women's History. Additionally, she's coordinated efforts to talk about how other societal topics impact all of us, including Free Speech, Health and Wellness, and Finances in College. Beyond panels, Jordan has also played a significant role in other diversity related programming including National Coming Out Day and two international food related programs. Jordan looks through a lens of inclusion in all of her efforts. She pays attention to which voices are being heard and which need to be brought forward into the conversation. She is passionate about learning the historic context and staying up to date on current conversations and issues surrounding the treatment and experience of various minoritized communities. She is a champion for respect and reflection, and an advocate for improvement and inclusion. I have learned from her, am inspired by her, and look forward to witnessing the impact she continues to make on the YSU community, higher education, and our society at large.”

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The Dr. Luke N. Zaccaro Memorial Award

 

The Dr. Charles A. Mcbriarty Award

  • Dalton Korda

    Presenter

    Sofie Myers, SGA Executive Vice President

    Recipient

    Dalton Korda, Assistant Director, Operations and Event Services, Kilcawley Center Student Union

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The Smith-Murphy Award

 

Rebecca Banks Spirit Awards

 

The President Cynthia E. Anderson Lifetime Achievement Award

 

The John J. Gocala Service Award

 

Dr. Martin T. “Marty” Manning Award

 

Harry M. Meshel Legacy Award

 

Erin E. Driscoll Empowerment Award

 

Presidential Mentors

  • Presidential Mentors 2023-2024 Cohort

    Group photo of the presidential mentors

    • Dominic Adams
    • Austin Angus
    • Garrett Bailey
    • Jenna Billet
    • Dylan Brown
    • Ciarah Candelario
    • Zakria Chandio
    • Donae Collins
    • Carter Cook
    • Haley Dorion
    • Rayvin Gorrell
    • Annabelle Himes
    • Omega Eben Jaricha
    • Korey Kihm
    • David Metzler
    • Andrew Miller
    • Jacqueline Palusak
    • Aubree Peterson-Spanard
    • Samuel Restivo
    • Avery Sandy
    • Halle Slater
    • Cassidy Unger

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The Ysu Pin Award

  • Rebecca Catlos

    Presenter

    Bill Johnson, President, Youngstown State University

    Recipient

    Rebecca Catlos, New Middletown, Ohio

    Major: Marketing; Supply Chain Management

    Minor: Entrepeneurship, with a certificate in Enterprise Research Planning

    Student Involvement Highlight: Student Investment Fund, WCBA Business Leaders, Society for Human Resource Management, Student Information and Supply Chain Association, Beta Gamma Sigma, Women's Rugby Club, Youngstown Enviornmental Sustainability Society

    Legacy Statement:As a YSU graduate, I believe I will leave a legacy of serving others both on campus and in the community. I have prioritized and emphasized this value throughout my time at YSU and within the community, and I will continue to serve others even after I graduate. By being in leadership roles in numerous organizations, interning at the Small Business Development Center, and by working for a local company that prioritizes the healing of Veterans, I’ve gained a true understanding of serving others. Above all, I’ve learned the worth of not only serving others but serving them authentically. With each passing semester, I dedicated myself to delving deeper to genuinely contribute to YSU and the community. It is this commitment that led me to expand my authentic service by joining the Air Force to become an officer, allowing me to continue my legacy of serving.

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  • Julie Centofanti

    Presenter

    Bill Johnson, President, Youngstown State University

    Recipient

    Julie Centofanti, Boardman, Ohio

    Major: Biology

    Minor: Chemistry

    Student Involvement Highlight: Student Trustee, Academic Senate, Phi Kappa Phi Honors Society, Honors College Transcribing Club, Honors Trustees, STEM Leadership Society, Alpha Lambda Delta Honors Society

    Legacy Statement: Throughout my time at YSU, I have become involved in various programs and serving in leadership positions. My legacy will include the Transcribing Club that I founded, and students will continue to serve the local and national community of historians by transcribing historical documents. This year, I have been training a student to succeed my role as founder of the Transcribing Club, including running meetings, collaborating with the Library of Congress, and welcoming new students. Another organization that I have enjoyed serving in a leadership role is the Honors Society of Phi Kappa Phi. As a Student Vice President, I created an Instagram for the organization, reaching out to new students and improving visibility for the honors society on campus. The most important aspect of my legacy will be mentoring incoming students and inspiring them to reach their full potential, whether it be in the classroom or in leadership positions.

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  • Daniella Hosack

    Presenter

    Bill Johnson, President, Youngstown State University

    Recipient

    Daniella Hosack, Hubbard, Ohio

    Major: Biology

    Minor: Chemistry

    Student Involvement Highlight: Zeta Tau Alpha Sorority, Order of Omega Greek Honors Society, Emerging Leader Program, Genetics Club, Biology Club

    Legacy Statement: The legacy I leave behind as a YSU graduate reflects on my compassion, empathy, and dedication to my commitments. As a leader in Zeta Tau Alpha, I played an essential role in morphing the experience of members into a more inviting and positive experience. As treasurer, I observed repetitive complaints and recurring situations that would push members to leave our chapter. When I became president, I worked hard to correct mistakes that were made in the past. Our retention and chapter satisfaction with membership skyrocketed. During my presidency, our collective effort to strive for success was acknowledged by our Panhellenic and Greek Campus Life Community when we were awarded Top Sorority of the Year, Highest Sorority GPA of the Year, Top Sorority Greek Sing Performance, and Greek Week Champions. Additionally, I was honored with the first Carrie Anderson Greek Leadership Scholarship offered to sorority women in recognition of my dedication.

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  • Korey Kihm

    Presenter

    Bill Johnson, President, Youngstown State University

    Recipient

    Korey Kihm, Girard, Ohio

    Major: Biochemistry

    Student Involvement Highlight: Phi Kappa Phi Honors Society, American Chemical Society, STEM Leadership Society, Student Government Association

    Legacy Statement: The legacy I hope to leave behind is that being a leader is about encouraging and building up others. I always try to encourage others because I believe everyone needs positivity to be their best selves. For some people their internal positive is enough, but for others... Well for others I hope my encouragement can be enough to make them see the best in themselves. No good comes from being negative, but I always have experienced that giving kindness to one person helps them give kindness to others.

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  • Tafadzwa Mapiki

    Presenter

    Bill Johnson, President, Youngstown State University

    Recipient

    Tafadzwa Mapiki, Harare, Zimbabwe

    Major: Biology, Pre-Med

    Minors: Chemistry and Mathematics

    Student Involvement Highlight: Phi Kappa Phi Honors Society, African and Caribbean Student Union, International Student Organization, Admissions Ambassador, Emerging Leader Program, Resident Assistant

    Legacy Statement: When I first read this question, memories of being a great resident assistant, serving as president of diverse organizations, earning 100% scholarships, being Co-op of the Year twice and my research experiences with Mayo Clinic came to mind. However, I realized that my true legacy at YSU is more than these accomplishments. It's about the impact I've had on others. My legacy will be one of kindness, empathy, genuine care, and inspiration. Every interaction I've had was with kindness. I created a safe space for my residents during challenging times. I genuinely cared for my hospice patients, offering comfort and companionship when they needed it most. I approached my academics and jobs with dedication, inspiring those around me. I am confident that my legacy as a YSU graduate will endure through the lives I've touched. My time here has been about leaving a lasting imprint of compassion, empathy, and positivity.

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