Leadership Opportunities

Leadership Awards

Annual Leadership Awards

The Annual Student Leadership Awards recognizes students, student organizations, faculty and staff, for their contributions to the campus and greater community. Nominations typically open in February and close Monday, March 25 at 8:00 AM. The ceremony is held the first week of may. Any questions can be directed to involvement@wcupa.edu.

Sample Nomination Letters

A good nomination letter is well written, gives specific examples connected back to the award, and assumes the reader doesn't know the nominee. A few examples are linked below.
Individual
Group

STUDENT LEADERSHIP AWARDS NOMINATION FORM

Award Descriptions & Winners

Best Student Club Collaboration Award

This award will be presented to those clubs & organizations that have an event that is sponsored by two or more organizations to have a program or a series of programs that benefit the campus community. These programs could be educational, philanthropic, consciousness raising, entertaining, or feature cultural diversity understanding. Programs will be judged on the following: originality, creativity, value to the community, and degree to which the program has fulfilled its intended purpose. Examples of programs could be debates, panel discussions, social media challenges etc That helped to bridge or build community in a virtual environment that otherwise may not have connected otherwise.

Winners

2022-2023: Honors Student Association Better Together Day
2021-2022: University Theatre's Broadway Cares Equity AIDS Benefit
2020-2021: NAMI on Campus
2019-2020: OCCAtober Fest (Off Campus & Commuter Association, German Club)
2018-2019: Inter-Faith Banquet 2018 (LEAD, CRU, Muslim Student Association, Newman Student Association
2017-2018: Aid to South Africa 2017
2016-2017: Interfaith Banquet (CRU, Gospel Ministries, Hillel, Muslim Student Association, Young Life, Lutheran Student Association
2015-2016: Interfaith Banquet (CRU, Gospel Ministries, Hillel, Muslim Student Association
2014-2015 Chester County Crime Victims Unit Family Adoption Program (Abbe' & Friars' Societies)
2013-2014: Holiday Family Project (Abbe' and Friars' Societies)
2012-2013: Eating Disorders Awareness Week (Delta Phi Epsilon, Sister to Sister, A.W.E., Active Minds)
2011-2012: Eating Disorders Awareness Week (Delta Phi Epsilon, Sister to Sister, Sisters United, Women's Center Club)
2010-2011: The Human Experience
2009-2010: Yele for Haiti Benefit Day
2008-2009: Java Jam '08

Beverly A. Domenick Award for Leadership

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
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
Thomas J. Purce Organization Advisor of the Year

Citizen Leader Award

This recognition will be presented to those Students, faculty, or staff member who, in their daily life, understand and embody the virtues of honor, character and civility, embracing diversity, empathy, team-work, and social responsibility.

Winners

2022-2023: Samantha Tellez
2021-2022: Hannah Atlas
2020-2021: Sarah Eckroth
2019-2020: Kelly Heyduck
2018-2019: Caitlyn Handlin, Jennifer DiMucci Yost
2017-2018: Samantha Eden, Dr. John Helion, Sandy Jones
2016-2017: Olivia Campbell
2015-2016: Aliyah Chisholm, Sami Stalford
2014-2015: Michael Kalage
2013-2014: Ilana Berger, Joseph Deegan, Sabrina Rightmer
2012-2013: Joanna Vargo
2011-2012: Stephen James, Brett Petriello
2010-2011: Lori Brooks, Colleen McHugh, Julianne Spadine
2009-2010: Katie McCool, Anna Moronski, and Todd Soper
2008-2009: Jim Brennan, Jackie Aliotta, and Carmin Bermudez

Diane DeVestern Ethical Leadership Award

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

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

Golden Ram Award

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

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.

Leadership in Sustainability Award

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

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

Madeleine Wing Adler Emerging Leader Award

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

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

Mary Anderson Media Award

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

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

Matthew J. Bricketto Organization of the Year Award

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

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 Off Campus and Commuter Association
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

Most Improved Student Organization Award

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

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: Off-Campus & Commuter Association & 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

Organization Program of the Year

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

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

Outstanding Civic & Community Engagement (Individual)

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

Outstanding New Student Organization Award

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

2022-2023: Pakistani Student Association
2021-2022: Not Awarded
2020-2021: Together We Rise
2019-2020: Mu Kappa Tau
2018-2019: Golden Gamers

Senior Leader Award

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

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

Student Organization Community Service Award

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

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

Thomas J. Purce Organization Advisor of the Year

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

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 - Off-Campus & Commuter 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

Toni H. Kampf Paraprofessional Student Leader Award

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

2022-2023: Dana Pratt
2021-2022: Kristen Nortwich
2020-2021: Alyssa Allen
2019-2020: Kate Hutchinson
2018-2019: Natalia Mosquera

Off-Campus and Commuter Services Awards

Research shows that off-campus and commuter students are more involved and engaged in their community than their residential counterparts. OCCS’s core departmental values underscore the importance of active citizenship, advocacy, and community partnership. To highlight the good work of off-campus and commuter students, each year OCCS recognizes three exceptional undergraduate off-campus or commuter students who are deeply engrained in service in ways that align with the department’s core values.

Only off-campus and commuter students are qualified to apply. Each winner will receive $100, donated to a charity or organization of their choice in their name. Nominations will be reviewed by OCCS staff, and winners will receive recognition for their work during the Spring Student Leadership Awards.

*For a full description of the awards and nomination qualification please access the following document !

Active Citizenship (Individual)

Advocacy (Individual)

Community Partnership (Individual)

Fraternity and Sorority Life Awards

Chapter President of the Year - MGC (Individual)

This award will be presented to the fraternity or sorority president within the Multicultural Greek Council who has excelled in the leadership, development, and improvement of their chapter. Qualified candidates will have exemplified the true meaning of fraternity/sorority leadership and a commitment to the overall fraternity and sorority community by going above and beyond their call of duty in improving themselves as leaders and enhancing the overall chapter's structure and organization.