Office of Student Engagement

This award is given to a student leader who displays the following characteristics:  practical, resourceful, responsible decision-making, integrity, compassion for others, and the ability when leading to know when to “just do it”. This award is given in memory of Beverly Domenick, a long-time employee and friend of Student Affairs.

Winners

• 2024-2025: Molly Schroeder
• 2023-2024: Aiden Long
• 2022-2023: Emily Longeran
• 2021-2022: Chelsey Moore
• 2020-2021: Erin Kaliszak
• 2019-2020: Allison LaBella
• 2018-2019: Kinsey Hartert
• 2017-2018: Rodney Kaplan, Jr.
• 2016-2017: Tatiana Greer
• 2015-2016: Samantha Lattie
• 2014-2015: Jack Sencindiver
• 2013-2014: Ilana Berger
• 2012-2013: Paige Budin
• 2011-2012: Ellen Howard
• 2010-2011: Matthew South
• 2009-2010: Lauren Prudenti
• 2008-2009: Hannah Lamontagne
  
  

This award is given to a student leader who demonstrates strong ethical principles in service to others. Nominations should discuss how the nominee has exhibited ethics and integrity.  This award is given in tribute to Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs, Diane DeVestern, for her long-standing commitment to the students of West Chester University.

Winners

• 2024-2025: Gianna Parrish
• 2023-2024: Evan Parker
• 2022-2023: Abby Boquist
• 2021-2022: Kamryn Davis
• 2020-2021: Dunya Markovic
• 2019-2020: Michael Nangle
• 2018-2019: Marissa DeLoria
• 2017-2018: Matthew Leinhauser
• 2016-2017: Mohammad Farooq
• 2015-2016: Nicolas Dunn
• 2014-2015: Elizabeth Bishop
• 2013-2014: Abdul Malik Muhammad
• 2012-2013: Francesca Cintorrino

The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Champion Award recognizes an individual student at West Chester University who has made significant contributions to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the campus community. This award honors a student who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, advocacy, and commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable environment for all students. This student actively engages in initiatives that foster a welcoming and inclusive environment for all members of the university community, advocates for marginalized groups, and embodies the principles of social justice.

Selection Criteria:

• Leadership: Demonstrated leadership in initiatives or programs that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus.
• Advocacy: Active advocacy for underrepresented or marginalized groups, addressing issues related to social justice and equity.
• Impact: Measurable impact of the student's efforts on the campus community, such as organizing events, campaigns, or projects that foster inclusivity.
• Collaboration: Ability to collaborate with diverse groups, including students, faculty, and staff, to advance DEI goals.
• Innovation: Creative and innovative approaches to addressing DEI challenges and promoting a culture of inclusion.
• Sustainability: Efforts to ensure that DEI initiatives have a lasting and sustainable impact on the campus community.

Winners:

• 2024-2025: Katie Griffin, Rachel Beatty 

This award is given to an undergraduate student who demonstrates high involvement, creates positive experiences through the campus community, impacts student life at WCU and enhances the Golden Ram spirit.  This award recognizes a student who makes contributions to the University through participation in student organizations, WCU traditions and university events.

Winners

• 2024-2025: Alexis Stakem
• 2023-2024: Fanta Keita, Emily Lonergan
• 2022-2023: Courtney Medwin
• 2021-2022: Princess Ogujiofor
• 2020-2021: Molly Scollo
• 2019-2020: Abbey Johnson
• 2018-2019: Lauren Harner
• 2017-2018: Tyler Longergan
• 2016-2017: Michael Moriarty, Jr.
• 2015-2016: Anjelica Finore
• 2014-2015: Nia Andrews
• 2013-2014: Ilana Berger
• 2012-2013: Matthew Toal
• 2011-2012: Justin Sochovka
• 2010-2011: Richard Miller, Jr.

This award will be presented to an individual or organization who has made significant efforts towards helping our University be more sustainable in all its efforts.  The student or organization nominated must have made a difference at West Chester University through their personal efforts to be more sustainable in their daily lives, encouraging their peers to become more sustainable, and/or working to make WCU a more sustainable community.

 Winners

• 2024-2025: Alden Ritchey
• 2023-2024: Lily-Dawn Harkins, Megan Harth 
• 2022-2023: Layla Malik
• 2021-2022: Veg Out
• 2020-2021: Was not awarded
• 2019-2020: Abigail Kennedy
• 2018-2019: Food Recovery Network
• 2017-2018: Siani Vargas
• 2016-2017: Katherine Hood
• 2015-2016: Andrew Phillips
• 2014-2015: Not Awarded
• 2013-2014: Ellen Keating, Kendra McMillan

This award focuses on the first year or second year student leader who has shown the most promise of leadership. The promise could be displayed through leadership roles or active participation in student organizations, academia, or service. This award was named to honor this student-centered former President of West Chester University.

Winners

• 2024-2025: Miles Cressley, Irene Okonkwo
• 2023-2024: Gabriella Liberto
• 2022-2023: Connor Dapp, Lee Irvine, Aubrey Eason
• 2021-2022: Dana Pratt, Chloe Sindaco
• 2020-2021: Abigail Boquist, Constantina Pappas, Lionel McCulloch
• 2019-2020: Jocelyn Brown, Erin Kaliszak, Bill Swisher
• 2018-2019: Katherine Fox, Jessica Meakim, Aric Miller
• 2017-2018: Joshua Bradley, Kate Coyle, Taylor Gibson-Campbell, Michael Nangle
• 2016-2017: Rodney Kaplan, Hannah Laboski, Claire McCreavy
• 2015-2016: Patrick Githens, Julianna Mann, Grace Li Terramin
• 2014-2015: Christina Bucci, Anthony Deimler, Kellen Kane, Erin McCarthy
• 2013-2014: Ruth Hochberg, Ryan Schaefer
• 2012-2013: Lindsay Kirschner, Anthony LaFratte, Caitlin Silver
• 2011-2012: Anthony Blubello, Jasmine Forster, Christine Mackin, Justin Sochovka
• 2010-2011: Michael Jendzurski, Amber Marcoon, Alexis Parks
• 2009-2010: Leonard Altieri III, Stephanie Destafney, Ellen Howard
• 2008-2009: Evan Lieb, Melissa Kenney, Michelle Stark
• 2007-2008: Ashley Fake, Danielle Gilliam, W. Bradley Horstmann, Anna Moronski
• 2006-2007: Jackie Aliotta, Alyssa Conaway, L. Anthony DiJiacomo, Leonarda Parente
• 2005-2006: Trevor Haverluk, Jessica "Jai" Northcraft, Nikki Thenier
• 2004-2005: John Farley, Sarah Huskin, Matthew Jochym, Selinda Lehneis, Tim Witman
• 2003-2004: Justin Baker, Caitlin Boston, Josh Holmes, Randi Steinberg
• 2002-2003: Marisa Blagman, Kendra Darigan, Jamar Kelly, Chuck Leidike, Karen Snyderman, Bryan Steimel
• 2001-2002: Jason "Jay" Mazzerle, Teresa Ryan
• 2000-2001: Terry DeLuca, Lauren Thomas
• 1999-2000: Mark J. Dougherty, Amy Yozviak
• 1998-1999: Tikneia Major, Daniel Steigerwalt
• 1997-1998: Adam Morris, Joy Stroman

The Mary Anderson Media Board Award is named in honor of Mary Anderson, former Director of Public Relations and Marketing who passed away in June 2002. The award is given to a West Chester University student who is involved in a campus media organization; has demonstrated creativity in their approach to working in his/her media area, as well as, in solving problems within the organization; has paid keen attention to accurate fact finding and communication; exhibits an excellent sense of humor; and is willing to have fun at work!

Winners

• 2024-2025: Olivia Schlinkman
• 2023-2024: Noah Smith
• 2022-2023: Cherry Kivumbi
• 2021-2022: Hally Everett
• 2020-2021: Not Awarded
• 2019-2020: Samantha Walsh
• 2018-2019: Max James
• 2017-2018: Lauren Detwiler
• 2016-2017: Sunny Morgan
• 2015-2016: Ryan Calpin
• 2014-2015: Anjelica Finore
• 2013-2014: Jessica Micchelli
• 2012-2013: Kenneth Ayres
• 2011-2012: Ginger Rae Dunbar
• 2010-2011: Kaylee Sharkey
• 2009-2010: Tara Tanzos
• 2008-2009: Amanda Tingle

This award will be presented to a club or organization that has demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities. Such qualities may have been displayed through involvement in student activities, leadership development, organizational programming, and/or service. Please include information on how this organization has impacted the campus community. This award is named after former Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Matthew Bricketto for his multiple years of service.

Winners

• 2024-2025: Women in Business
• 2023-2024: WCU Dance Marathon
• 2022-2023: Colleges Against Cancer
• 2021-2022: A Moment of Magic
• 2020-2021 National Student Speech Language and Hearing Association
• 2019-2020: Student Pennsylvania State Education Association and Student and Family Experience
• 2018-2019: Honors Student Association
• 2017-2018: Student Government Association
• 2016-2017: Colleges Against Cancer
• 2015-2016: Bringing Hope Home & Colleges Against Cancer
• 2014-2015: Student Pennsylvania State Education Association
• 2013-2014: L.G.B.T.Q.A.
• 2012-2013: Women's Ice Hockey Club
• 2011-2012: WCUR 91.7 FM
• 2010-2011: Honors Student Association
• 2009-2010: Black Student Union, Student Government Association
• 2008-2009: Residence Hall Association
• 2007-2008: Honors Student Association
• 2006-2007: Student Nurses Association of PA
• 2005-2006: Black Student Union
• 2004-2005: Student Activities Council
• 2003-2004: Student Activities Council
• 2002-2003: Student Nurses Association of PA
• 2001-2002: Student Government Association
• 2000-2001: Student Activities Council
• 1999-2000: Women's Panhellenic Council
• 1998-1999: Not awarded
• 1997-1998: Not awarded

This award will be presented to a club or organization that has made significant strides towards achieving their goals and mission. Please include the role of leadership in this change and how the organization has transformed itself in the past academic year.

Winners

• 2024-2025: Philosophy Club
• 2023-2024: HER Campus
• 2022-2023: Student-Athlete Advisory Committee
• 2021-2022: Veg Out
• 2021-Not awarded
• 2019-2020: RamSquad
• 2018-2019: Graduate Student Association & High Street Harmonix
• 2017-2018: Student and Family Experience & Under A Rest A Cappella
• 2016-2017: Student Government Association & Student Nurses' Association of Pennsylvania
• 2015-2016: Best Buddies
• 2014-2015: Veterans Club, WCU & Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity
• 2013-2014: Kappa Delta Rho Fraternity and National Student Speech Hearing Language Association
• 2012-2013: Muslim Student Association, Pre-Med Club
• 2011-2012: Phi Mu Sorority, WCUR 91.7 FM
• 2010-2011: American Marketing Association, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia, Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity
• 2009-2010: Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity, Women's Center Club
• 2008-2009: Lambda Pi Eta Communication Studies Honor Society, Sykes Union Advisory Board
• 2007-2008: Residence Hall Association
• 2006-2007: Asian American Organization, Recreation and Leisure Programs
• 2005-2006: Interfraternity Council

This award will be presented to a group or groups who have provided the most out-standing program to the campus, with consideration to those who have focused on philanthropic, consciousness-raising, entertaining, social, cultural diversity, or educational topics. Programs held on or off campus will be judged on the following (as it applies): originality, creativity, popularity, values to the community, and degree to which the program has fulfilled the intended purpose. For 2020-2021 specify how the program was delivered virtually, hybrid. 

Winners

• 2024-2025: A Moment of Magic: Express, Create, and Heal
• 2023-2024: South Asian Student Association, Program: Diwali
• 2022-2023: Panhellenic Council: Women's March
• 2021-2022: Black Student Union: Kwanzaa Celebration
• 2020-2021: A Moment of Magic: Zoom Character Visits
• 2019-2020:: University Theatre: Aids Benefit
• 2018-2019: Honors Student Association – Nobel Peace Leadership Series
• 2017-2018: Student Government Association - WCU Stands
• 2016-2017: Bringing Hope Home for WCU STOMPS Cancer 5K: Halloween 5K Walk/Run
• 2015-2016: Bringing Hope Home for WCU STOMPS Cancer 5K: Halloween 5K Walk/Run
• 2014-2015: LGBTQA Redefining Realness with Janet Mock
• 2013-2014: Relay for Life - Colleges Against Cancer
• 2012-2013: L.G.B.T.Q.A. for Transgender Awareness Week
• 2011-2012: Coming Out Day - L.G.B.T.Q.A.
• 2010-2011: AID to South Africa, Honors Student Association &The Human Experience, Honors Student Association, English Club, Phi Sigma Pi, Contemporary Issues, S.G.A., Philosophical Society, SAC, Alpha Sigma Tau, L.G.B.T.Q.A., R.H.A., Hillel, O.C.C.A., Women's Center Club, Gender Studies Club, Sykes Union Advisory Board

• 2009-2010: Student Government Association - WCU Car Showdown
• 2008-2009: Colleges Against Cancer-Relay for Life
• 2007-2008: O.C.C.A. -Pretzel Service Project
• 2006-2007: Relay for Life-24 hour walk
• 2005-2006: Phi Mu Sorority-Walk for C.M.N.: The Children's Hospital
• 2004-2005: O.C.C.A. - Drunk Driving Awareness
• 2003-2004: Sigma Phi Epsilon-Toilet Bowl Sit-a-Thon
• 2002-2003: L.G.B.T.A-Visibility Matters: L.G.B.T. Awareness Days
• 2001-2002: Asian American Organization-Asian Cultural Expo
• 2000-2001: Inter-Greek Council-Dance Marathon
• 1999-2000: Christmas Benefit Auction - B.S.U, Lambda Theta Phi, L.A.S.O.
• 1998-1999: Inter-Greek Council-Dance Marathon
• 1997-1998: Inter-Greek Council-Dance Marathon

This award will be presented to an individual who exhibits an ongoing commitment to civic and community engagement. Recipients demonstrate a strong desire to address issues of public concern (e.g., food and housing security; educational equity; environmental justice; health equity) through sustained involvement in community service, advocacy, and/or philanthropy efforts

Winners

• 2024-2025: Lauren Marsh
• 2023-2024: Megan Harth

This award is given to an undergraduate student organization that has only been recognized by the University for up to three years. The nomination letter needs to demonstrate in its narrative how the mission and vision of the student organization has contributed to the growth and development of the organization and how, through the actions and deeds of the members since recognition was granted, the organization has benefited the campus environment.  Specific information on membership growth, programming, and support services provided to members will benefit nominations.

Winners

• 2024-2025: Film & Media Society 
• 2023-2024: Future Teachers United
• 2022-2023: Pakistani Student Association
• 2021-2022: Not Awarded
• 2020-2021: Together We Rise
• 2019-2020: Mu Kappa Tau
• 2018-2019: Golden Gamers

This award focuses upon the senior leader (student with 90 or more credits) who has shown the most capable leadership ability throughout his/her years at WCU. The individual's leadership ability may have been displayed through excellence in student organizations, academia, or service.

Winners

• 2024-2025: Ashley Tinervia, Fatoumata Toure Ayza Syed
• 2023-2024: Princess Ogujiofor, Grace Gilmore, Andrew Rubas, Ashley Scott
• 2022-2023: Carlyn Crisi, Ananiya Jones, Fanny Ortiz
• 2021-2022: Emma Williams, Dunya Markovic, Nebiyou Elias, Jessica Hazell
• 2020-2021: Yeseena Alli, Laurne Harner, Michaela Karlesses, Michael Nangle
• 2019-2020: Spencer Camacho, Ollie DeSarno, Sean Milligan, Juah Toe
• 2018-2019: Nicole Boylan, Rodney Kaplan, Jr., Erica Knorr, Matthew Leinhauser
• 2017-2018: Ryan Long, Gabriella Longenbach, Will Maughlin, Jr., Elizabeth McDevitt, Sara Nyholm
• 2016-2017: Kellen Kane, Shannon Shiring, Reginald Smith, Samantha "Sami" Stalford
• 2015-2016: Alex Bowers, Jack Sencindiver, Chan To, Sarah Walker, Christopher Whittall
• 2014-2015: John Matz, Samantha McGinty, Brianna Plaxe, Aaron Rapsinski,
• 2013-2014: Adam Goral, Philip Hagstotz, Christine Klingaman, Christine Mackin, Justin Sochovka
• 2012-2013: Francesca Cintorrino, Michael Jendzurski, Michelle Strausbaugh, Alexander Studd, Alexis Parks
• 2011-2012: Leonard Altieri III, Ellen Howard, Kara Kirst, Evan Lieb, Matthew Whittall
• 2010-2011: Matthew Costa, Courtney Hart, Caroline McRobbie, Carly Myers, Todd Soper
• 2009-2010: Christa Cicala, L. Anthony DiJiacomo, Maura Gallagher, W. Bradley Horstmann, Takia McClendon, Richard Miller, Jr.
• 2008-2009: Jackie Aliotta, Jessica "Jai" Northcraft, Rosa Parks, Kyle D. Smith
• 2007-2008: Kristen Gilia, Thomas "TJ" Hamel, Adam Lush, Laura Ness
• 2006-2007: Kara Jessel, Selinda Lehneis, Kyle Mullins, Jose "Tony" Santiago, Amy Rae
• 2005-2006: Steven Brenoskie, Joshua Holmes
• 2004-2005: Erica Seidner, Bradley Sorrels
• 2003-2004: Judd Strauss, Jennifer Woolston
• 2002-2003: Kristina Klaus, Mary Lim, Edward Long, Christopher Mullen, Holly Whitcomb
• 2001-2002: Michael Brooks, Amy Yozviak
• 2000-2001: Melanie Foose, Adam Swope
• 1999-2000: Danielle Friel, Luis Torres
• 1998-1999: L. Missie Rogers, Jody Yozviak
• 1997-1998: Jennifer Brookover, Jason Levy

This award will be given to a group/organization that has created, participated in, and coordinated a wide variety of community service projects that have made a difference in our community. Please cite specific examples. 

Winners

• 2024-2025: Abbe Society
• 2023-2024: Student PSEA 
• 2022-2023: Empowering Communities Around You (ECAY)
• 2021-2022: A Moment of Magic
• 2020-2021: Honors Student Association
• 2019-2020: Honors Student Association
• 2018-2019: Student PSEA
• 2017-2018: Abbe’ Society
• 2016-2017: Delta Chi Fraternity
• 2015-2016: Student Pennsylvania State Education Association
• 2014-2015: Honors Student Association
• 2013-2014: Abbe' Society
• 2012-2013: Honors Student Association
• 2011-2012: Honors Student Association
• 2010-2011: Alpha Phi Omega
• 2009-2010: Alpha Phi Omega
• 2008-2009: Circle K International
• 2007-2008: Circle K International, Friars Society
• 2006-2007: S.N.A.P. (Student Nurses' Association of Pennsylvania)
• 2005-2006: Abbe' Society
• 2004-2005: Abbe' Society
• 2003-2004: Friars' Society
• 2002-2003: Abbe' Society
• 2001-2002: Phi Mu Sorority, Friars' Society
• 2000-2001: Women's Basketball Team
• 1999-2000: Abbe' Society
• 1998-1999: Abbe' Society
• 1997-1998: Not awarded

The Inclusive Excellence Award recognizes a student organization at West Chester University that has demonstrated exceptional commitment to enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the campus community. This award celebrates an organization that has implemented impactful programs, initiatives, or activities that promote inclusivity and equity for all students. This organization actively engages in initiatives that promote understanding, respect, and appreciation of diverse perspectives and experiences, and works to create an inclusive environment for all students.

Selection Criteria:

• Program Implementation: Successful implementation of programs or activities that promote DEI and have a positive impact on the campus community.
• Engagement: Active engagement with diverse groups of students and collaboration with other organizations to advance DEI objectives.
• Outreach: Efforts to reach out to and include underrepresented or marginalized groups in the organization's activities and programs.
• Education: Providing educational opportunities that raise awareness and understanding of DEI issues among the campus community.
• Innovation: Innovative strategies and approaches to addressing DEI challenges and fostering a culture of inclusion.
• Sustainability: Commitment to the sustainability of DEI initiatives, ensuring their long-term impact and success.

Winners

• 2024-2025: Black Men United

This award will be given to an advisor who has served a West Chester University group above and beyond expectations.  This individual may be new to the position or may have been working with the group for several years. This award is named after former Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Thomas J. Purce who is the only multiple recipient of this award to date.  (only nominations from students will be considered)

Winners

• 2024-2025: Dr. Chris Przemieniecki, Criminal Justice Club
• 2023-2024: Dr. Regina Subach 
• 2022-2023: Elisa A. Oliver, National Pan-Hellenic Council & Multicultural Greek Council
• 2021-2022: Dr. Robert Kodosky, Helping American Heroes
• 2020-2021: Amy Hurst,  Student Pennsylvania State Education Association
• 2019-2020: Dr. Amanda Olejarski, Graduate School of Public Administration Network
• 2018-2019: Barrett McGee, Student Activities Council
• 2017-2018: Sara Hinkle, Student Government Association
• 2016-2017: Sabrina Rightmer, Abbe' Society
• 2015-2016: Peter Galloway, Interfraternity Council & Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity
• 2014-2015: Aneesah Smith, L.G.B.T.Q.A.
• 2013-2014: Thomas J. Purce, Circle K International
• 2012-2013: Deanne Zotter - Sister to Sister Peer Mentor Organization
• 2011-2012: Barrett McGee - Student Activities Council
• 2010-2011: Christina Brenner - Student and Family Experience Association
• 2009-2010: Kevin Dean - Honors Student Association; and Dr. Deanne Zotter - Sister to Sister
• 2008-2009: Dave Timmann - Sykes Union Advisory Board and Colleges Against Cancer
• 2007-2008: Mark Hickman - Forensics
• 2006-2007: Giovanni Casotti - Friars' Society
• 2005-2006: Alice Speh - Russian Club & Alpha Mu Gamma Foreign Languages Honor Society
• 2004-2005: Jeffrey Gerstein - Student Activities Council/Major Entertainment
• 2003-2004: Thomas Purce - Residence Hall Association
• 2002-2003: Edward Lordan - Women in Communications
• 2001-2002: Grace Kelly - Gospel Choir
• 2000-2001: Barbara Lappano - Dance Production Workshop
• 1999-2000: Jeffrey Esposito - Alpha Phi Omega & Delta Chi Fraternity
• 1998-1999: Jackie Hodes - Lesbian,Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning Association
• 1997-1998: Thomas Purce - Residence Hall Association

This award is presented in honor of Toni H. Kampf to a student paraprofessional employed by West Chester University who exemplifies strong leadership qualities in their role as an on-campus employee, in their student organization, and holds at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA. This award recognizes a student for a strong work ethic in their on-campus job, academic excellence, and dedicated membership in at least one campus organization where they have demonstrated tremendous leadership. The nomination letter must include GPA of nominated student, a narrative regarding their efforts in their on-campus job, and description on how they have contributed to the success of their campus organization. Nominations will only be accepted by current students, faculty or staff.

Winners

• 2024-2025: Brianne Sell
• 2023-2024: Lee Irvine
• 2022-2023: Dana Pratt
• 2021-2022: Kristen Nortwich
• 2020-2021: Alyssa Allen
• 2019-2020: Kate Hutchinson
• 2018-2019: Natalia Mosquera

This award will be presented to a student who has represented a commitment to fostering health & well-being for the campus community. In their daily life, this student encourages others on their wellness journey and embraces the motto of live well, learn well.  This student should be passionate about promoting health and wellness on campus and supporting students in their navigation of resources available to them both on campus and in the community.