2025 Awards
Awards
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Recipient List
Joseph T. Albert Prize
Awarded to the student who, having maintained good standing in scholarship during the last year, has grown in capacity, ability, and performance to have a positive effect on their peers.
- Leo Schoenbrun
Colonel Percy Willis Prize
An award and prize to the student who has displayed virtues of diligence, reliability, and responsibility through deeds and service to fellow students and the university.
- Emily Huynh
Jessie E West Award
Presented to two students for their outstanding leadership and contributions to the student body through both their positions and actions.
- Eclipse Albert
- Marie Tarrab Dabbah
Duncan Robertson Community Builder Award
This award recognizes and celebrates Willamette seniors whose hard work and community dedication may have previously been unsung.
- Fabiana Lopez-Ruiz
- Tenley Grant
Frank Meyer Student Life Award
Presented to a student whose outstanding leadership and contributions have improved the quality of student life at the university.
- Connor Everetts
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Franklin D. Meyer Student Ambassador Award
Presented to a Student Ambassador from the Office of Admissions who consistently provides exceptional visit experiences for prospective students and families. The recipient of this award is a team player who goes above and beyond to ensure individualized, inclusive, and welcoming visits to Willamette University.
- Grace Kline
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Professional Development Award
Given to a student who contributed to the professional and career development of their peers through programs, personal leadership and/or partnering with others to educate and inform students about their career options and interests.
- Justin Greene
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Timothy C. Hawkins Award
Presented to students who have made outstanding contributions in the field of journalistic photography or graphic design during the academic year.
- Basil Allen
- Keenan Yoshizawa
Charles A. Sprague Award
Presented to students on The Collegian staff for their outstanding endeavors in writing and reporting during the academic year.
- Maisy Clunies-Ross
- Skeet Starr
George Putnam Award
Presented to one student on The Collegian staff who has given distinguished service to the paper. Candidates are those who have served more than two years as a Collegian staff member and have made significant contributions to the publication.
- Eleanor Hu
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“Not Unto Ourselves” Community Service Student Award
This student epitomizes commitment to community, demonstrating a selfless dedication to uplifting others. Through innovative projects and significant efforts, they have made a tangible impact on the well-being of their community. Their work extends beyond the norm, reflecting a deep understanding of social issues and a genuine passion to effect positive change. Collaborative initiatives, leadership, and a compassionate spirit set them apart, making them a source of inspiration for peers and an example for a more compassionate and engaged society. This student's commitment to community service stands as a testament to their character and civic responsibility.
- Lesly Cordero-Lagos
“Not Unto Ourselves” Community Engaged Organization Award
This student organization, club, team, etc has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to the community off campus through direct service, advocacy and/or education. They embody a spirit of altruism and positive change through innovative programs and sustained efforts. Through their work, they have transformed lives and uplifted communities. Their impact resonates beyond philanthropy, showcasing a holistic understanding of societal needs. Collaborative partnerships, measurable results, and a lasting dedication distinguish them as beacons of inspiration, embodying the essence of the Willamette motto, "Not unto ourselves alone are we born."
- Climate Action Alliance, Annie Birch-Wright
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Spirit of Empowerment Award
Honors student leader(s) who have worked to empower underrepresented students at Willamette through mentorship, programs, or other initiatives.
- Ariana Waters
- Harleen Brar
- Tenley Grant
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Outdoor Program Rising Star Award
The Rising Stars award recognizes a student member of the Outdoor Program who is in the first three semesters of involvement. In addition to maintaining good standing, Rising Stars demonstrate commitment to the program by seeking opportunities for leadership and skill development AND utilizing feedback to improve themselves, their peers, and the program as a whole.
- Blue Kalmbach
- Rya Hirsh
Outdoor Program Legacy Award
Given to the Outdoor Program staff member who displays extraordinary passion for the outdoors through involvement and interactions with the Outdoor Program.
- Jason Lehman
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Student Leadership Award of Excellence
This award recognizes a residential student leader member for their outstanding contributions to the Residence Life and Housing at Willamette University. Recognizing that contributions take many forms, it may include community development, advocacy, leadership, mentoring, or enhancing the resident experience. This award can be awarded to Resident Advisors, Community Resident Advisors, Residence Hall Association, and Hall Council members.
- Lesly Cordero-Lagos
- Mashani Coleman Toliver
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Cornerstone of Community
This award is for an unsung hero (individual or group) who has contributed positively to the larger campus environment by providing opportunities for social connection.
This award honors the work no one may see but that students benefit from and would miss if they were gone.
- Eclipse Albert
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Outstanding Student Club or Organization Advisor
Awarded to a Willamette faculty or staff member who exemplifies commitment to the student club or organization as well as mentorship to the members.
- Anna Song
- Sarah Schneider
Outstanding Student Club or Organization
Awarded to a student club organization that made significant contributions to Willamette community during the academic year.
- Black Student Union: Kayla Davis
- Castaway Club: Eyan Hackney
- The Collegian: Eleanor Hu
Certificates
Senior Certificates honor members of the senior class who have contributed “Service to the Associated Students.” Recipients are selected based on their time and effort spent in the name of Willamette University, the diversity of their activities, and their impact on other Willamette undergraduate students.
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Elliott Alongi
Elliott has gone above and beyond in all of their roles across departments. Though, they shine brightest in the theatre. Their work in the lighting studio, becoming a supervisor as a second year and head electrician in their third they have been integral to the success of the department's success. Through their leadership, many underclass folks have learned both the hard skills of lighting a stage and the soft skills of communication and teamwork. Through their roles in TSAB, they have worked hard to foster a space in which students can both discuss issues and find solutions. They have been a major connection point for both current students and prospective students to connect with faculty and understand the University on the whole.
Involvement:
- Admissions Ambassador
- GRAC Safezone
- Opening Days Leader
- Theatre Lighting Supervisor
- Theatre Student Advisory Board
- Bistro Barista
- Collegian Editor
Jaylah Bennett
Jaylah has not only presented themself within the internal community as a Help Desk staff member (even being the voice of our voicemail!) as a person we can trust with hard tasks and difficult customers. But their work ethic is unparalleled, being the reason Choir travels up and down the Pacific coast, even internationally. Presenting the choir and Willamette in a positive light. Jaylah goes the extra mile by connecting with folks asking questions and making sure all information is noted and ready before a staff member needs to take over. Jaylah also has a strong sense of self and this conveys in their artistic expression as well as their ability to set boundaries for themself.
Involvement:
- WITS Development Intern
- WITS Help Desk Attendant
- Willamette Dance Company
- Willamette University Chamber choir President and Tour Manager
- Willamette University Theater Front of House Manager
- Opening Days Leader
Cassie Drazen
She approaches everything with kindness, compassion, and enthusiasm which is clearly comes through when she talks about her volunteer work at the elementary schools. Whether she is designing her own class curriculum to help students understand geology so that they can be more comfortable with that material on standardized tests or helping support one of the other scholars, she leads with grace making a difference in the lives of many students both at the elementary school and at Willamette University. Though her work, Cassie has bridged the sometimes stark gap between our Willamette Community and the broader Salem community by supporting the next generation of science, technology, engineering, and math students.
Involvement:
- Webber Scholar
- Hatfield Library Circulation Manager
- Environmental Health Hazards and Threats Research Assistant
KC Fejeran
KC always strives to go far beyond what is asked of him. The idea of settling for "good enough" is seemingly outlandish to him. He is always looking out for others and sets an amazing example of setting boundaries and being kind for everyone but particularly younger students. He always makes everyone feel seen, cared for, and appreciated. KC can not move across campus without being stopped at least once by a former or current professor, boss, or fellow student to chat, say hi, or give a hug. He looks out for everyone around him but especially any students who may be at a disadvantage. He connects people with others, with resources, and has helped countless folks navigate the challenges and stresses of being a college student.
Involvement:
- Opening Days Leader
- Opening Days Lead Team
- Native and Indigenous Student Union
- Musicalia
- Disability Advocacy Club
Riley Forth
Even as a first year, Riley hit the group running with her contributions to the Willamette University Community through her involvement with the Willamette University Growing Oaks program and Dempsey Scholarship. Through the Growing Oaks project she helped facilitate multiple events including an oak festival, planting events, and community service activities that engaged the campus community in sustainability efforts. Riley has contributed significant time and effort to advancing Willamette University through her community service activities like Growing Oaks, research that has become internationally recognized, and steadfast commitment to peer mentoring.
Involvement:
- Growing Oaks Growing Leader
- Dempsey Scholar
- STEM Fellow
Leslie Garfias
Leslie has been an incredible part of our Willamette community through her tireless and ongoing efforts to shaping vital cultural programming & creating important resources for first-generation and other underrepresented students on our campus. She is community-centered, and she is an exemplary model of civic engagement. She has dedicated several years to multiple organizations, which further emphasizes her true commitment to these missions. For example, her ongoing efforts in SOAR and Sigma Tau Delta show how that engaged learning and knowledge are core to her values.
Involvement:
- WU First Generation Book Drive Coordinator
- Alianza Cultural Activities Coordinator
- Sigma Tau Delta
- Willamette Academy Saturday Session Coordinator & Summer Residential Assistant & Teaching Assistant/RATA
- Registrar Office Assistant
Brice Hoerauf
Brice embodies the qualities that define this prestigious award—outstanding leadership, a deep commitment to service, and a lasting impact on the Willamette community. Through his tireless efforts in student government, sustainability initiatives, and civic engagement, Brice has gone above and beyond to serve his peers and the broader community. His leadership, service, and advocacy have left an indelible mark on Willamette University, and his legacy of dedication will continue to inspire future generations of students.
Involvement:
- Office of Civic Engagement Climate Justice Catalyst
- ASWU Treasurer
- SEAL Office Assistant
- The Collegian Business Manager
- Sustainability Steering Committee
- Climate Action Alliance
Adelaide Kemp
Adelaide has been a powerful force for change in the Willamette University community through her role as the project lead for the Growing Oaks Project, a student-lead organization that focuses on stewarding our native oak savannas. Adelaide is constantly going above and beyond in her duties by incorporating other students into sustainability initiatives, coordinating with both faculty and partners so the organization is best supported, and envisioning what the next chapter of Growing Oaks will be. In addition to this immense contribution, Adelaide involves herself in the Willamette Community through the Environmental Science Department, summer research activities, and her role as a manager at the Mark O. Hatfield Library. She is constantly helping support her peers with humor, exemplifying the principles of leading from the background.
Involvement:
- Growing Oaks Project Lead
- Hatfield Library Manager
- Zena Farm Club President
- Teaching Assistant
- Colloquium Associate
- ASWU Senator
Grace Kline
Grace has had 4 years of admissions work, coming from being an ambassador all the way to a student leader. In her spare time, she is constantly thinking of ways to improve the incoming students' experiences, how to improve the admissions office for the workers and how to adjust the training resources. Grace is someone that has put a lot of her personal time and effort into making sure students feel welcomed to join Willamette's campus.
Involvement:
- Fabric, Textile, Yarn Club Co-Founder
- Colloquium Associate
- Rugby Club
- Admissions Office
- Project Coordinator
- Ambassador
- Willamette Annual Fund Student Philanthropy Chair
- Willamette Dance Company
Krisna LaFrance
Krisna is a Human Anatomy peer tutor and has been the leader of this student group for two years. Additionally, Krisna has served on the EXHS executive board and has been a leader in our department for several years. In addition to his involvement in nearly all of EXHS activities, Krisna has stood out as a true leader in our department and across Willamette College. He volunteers with High School outreach in the Human Anatomy laboratory, he has volunteered during Bearcat days and has even lead special tours of our Anatomy facilities with Willamette's Board of Trustees.
Involvement:
- Men’s Soccer
- Captain
- Player
- Strength Coordinator
- Head Human Anatomy Teaching Assistant
- Exercise and Health Science Executive Board
- Sparks Fitness Center Staff
Madeleine Montanye
Maddy has not served Willamette in a typical leadership role by serving as an elected or selected leader of a campus organization or club. Rather, they have dedicated two years to serve as both General Manager and Kitchen Manager of the Bistro. This service is particularly notable, because the Bistro has gone through numerous challenges in the aftermath of COVID (too lengthy to share in this nomination). In past years, the managers have needed to keep things running, with the confidence they were a money making operation with the regular challenges that pop up. Maddy has worked tirelessly and selflessly to try to meet these challenges and find solutions.
Involvement:
- Bistro Manager
Lee Parsons
Lee has been a dedicated person all-over campus. Though I haven't known them for very long, I have seen their hardworking spirit as they fly between commitments. They have been a choreographer and dancer for Dance Co throughout their time at Willamette, in addition to being an RA for first-year students, which has been especially difficult with fewer people filling in the roles recently and needing to take on more students/floors than usual. They are tirelessly dedicated to helping others have fantastic experiences on this campus and it shows.
Involvement:
- Resident Advisor
- Willamette Dance Company
- Choreographer
- The Collegian
- Lifestyles Section Editor
- Sigma Tau Delta
- Writing Center Writing Consultant
Ash Scott
Ash was one of the first students I met at WU, and their energy is truly contagious. They have a way of making people feel seen, valued, and included in any space they’re in. As a Resident Advisor and Community Resident Advisor, Ash created an environment where students felt comfortable coming to them—whether they needed support, wanted to hang out, or just wanted to connect.Ash has had far reaching contributions to the WU community in all of their roles on campus. Ash has created a sense of belonging with other students. They are dedicate and committed to creating memories for other WU students.
Involvement:
- Headband
- President
- Community Resident Advisor
- Bistro
- Barista
- Baker
- Financial Manager
- Colloquium Associate
- Opening Days Leader
Keys
Senior Keys are presented to members of the senior class who are the most outstanding, who go above and beyond, and who stand out for their meritorious service to the Associated Students of Willamette University. These students have had a large impact on their peers and the Willamette community, making significant contributions to the Division of Student Affairs and the undergraduate student body.
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Elise Fashimpaur
Elise's work is always of top quality, regardless of the context. She is a tireless worker who goes above and beyond to see a project through to completion once she begins it. Her impact on campus is much more widespread than the typical student-she has had an impact on large scale, high level issues like administrative policies (her work on University assessment) to more personal levels (club participation and musical performances). Regardless of the level she is working at, she has consistently made exceptional contributions to the University.
Involvement:
- Student Theatre Arts Group for Equity
- President
- Treasurer
- W Improv Posse
- Bearcat Band
- Board Games Collective
- Japanese Studies Student Leaders
- Jumpstart
- Admissions
- Assistant Student Coordinator of Operations
Tenley Grant
She has been extremely connected to the Division of Student Affairs. Since being her supervisor, I see the connections that she's made within the division, especially within Athletics, Student Engagement, and OIEI. Honestly, one of the more connected students to student life and the betterment of student life within WU. She has a great circle of influence and as mentioned, been able to be a role model to other students through the work that she does. The programs and projects that she's worked will leave a legacy and foundation for future students to pick up on. I'm also gonna be honest, I don't know anyone who doesn't know Tenley.
Involvement:
- Student Athlete Advisory Community
- Co-President
- Executive Member
- Representative
- Office of Intercultural Engagement and Inclusion Program Assistant
- Ohana Leader
- Athletics
- Track and Field Athlete
- Willamette Sports Event Staff
- Internal Operations Intern
- Outdoor Program Leader
Eleanor Hu
In every part of campus Eleanor is involved in, she is involved at the highest possible level. She leads a team of over 40 Willamette students in consistently producing successful issues of the Collegian. At the writing center, she has several "regulars" who seek her writing advice and has been an integral part of their team for 3 of her 4 years here. At Bearcat Chat, Eleanor has served nearly 2 full years as a Student Manager, including one semester as the Head Student manager. What makes Eleanor's commitment to her activities exemplary is her consistent dedication to them across her 8 semesters here on campus. Eleanor arrived on campus, found her passions quickly, and dedicated herself to serving her campus and other students through these organizations by leading them in a way which has always been motivated by bettering them for others.
Involvement:
- The Collegian
- Editor-in-Chief
- Managing Editor
- Lifestyles Editor
- Writer
- Sigma Tau Delta
- Bearcat Chat Head Student Manager
- Writing Center Writing Consultant
- Student Philanthropy Committee
Nina Krassner-Cybulski
Nina has led in two areas during her time at Willamette. First, as a member of the women's soccer team where she was recognized by the NW Conference for her academic and athletic performance from 2021-2023 as well as All Districts during the same time period. This past season she was named to the NWC All Conference First Team. Second, she has served CAFES in two leadership roles - project advisor and chair. As the CAFES advisor, I have been impressed by her leadership skills and work ethic. While she excelled in the project advisor role, working with grant recipients as a resource and guide, she has really done an amazing job as chair in a short time. Nina has a kind but firm way of leading her peers, and is not afraid to hold them accountable. As someone who entered Willamette when it was still very much our COVID period, she has accomplished a lot in a short amount of time.
Involvement:
- Community Action Fund for Equity and Sustainability
- Chair
- Project Advisor
- Women’s Soccer
- Lear Summer Intern
- Writing Center Writing Consultant
Jillian Layton
Jillian jumped into leadership immediately at Willamette, by joining Alpha Chi Omega and becoming the ASWU clerk, and serving as an Opening Day leader. I got to know her during her first year, and was impressed by her confidence and leadership skills. By her sophomore year, she was serving as chapter president of her sorority and an RA. She continued to take leadership roles in Panhellenic Council and her sorority after she was done serving as President, which was a huge job. I don't usually see students keep taking leadership roles after such a large role as President. Jillian is reliable and a self-starter. I could always count on her to figure things out, by working her campus network, asking questions, or just learning by doing. Jillian stands out in this graduating senior class as an active leader and community member.
Involvement:
- Alpha Chi Omega
- President
- Vice President of Risk Management
- Debate Union
- Resident Advisor
- Opening Days Leader
- ASWU Clerk
- Hatfield Library Circulation Desk Student Manager
Fabiana Lopez-Ruiz
Fabiana is a strong student. In addition to her rigorous major, she's been positive representative as a Webber Scholar. Over the summer her lab and leadership experience opened the opportunity to participate in the OSHU Equity Research Program. Outside of academics, Fabiana has been involved with Alianza throughout her time at WU. At Willamette Academy, she has worn many hats. She first served as a lab assistant for Professor Battle during a summer camp with 10-11th graders. Then she continued her participation as a Saturday Session Instructor for a full academic year. Here she created lesson plans, facilitated discussions, and grew as an instructor for 8-12th grade students. This school year, she joined the team as a tutor. Her work as a tutor has had a positive impact on students' academic progress. Additionally, she's continued her collaboration with Professor Battle and implemented a Chemistry Club for Academy students to engage in science throughout the school year.
Involvement:
- Alianza
- Webber Scholar
- STEM Scholar
- Willamette Academy
- Summer Lab Assistant
- Academic Tutor
- Session Instructor
Amanda Padgett
I primarily know and appreciate Amanda through her incredible contributions as a SARA and SARA Coordinator since 2022. But Amanda’s influence at Willamette extends beyond her work as a SARA and as a senator and Justice on ASWU. Her work as a Debate TA and captain has empowered fellow students to refine their public speaking and critical thinking skills, while her participation in Moot Court has helped uphold Willamette’s reputation for excellence in student advocacy. Additionally, her role as a Colloquium Associate and Admissions Ambassador has made a lasting impression on both incoming and prospective students, ensuring that Willamette remains a welcoming and intellectually engaging environment. Amanda’s internship at the state capitol reflects her dedication to civic involvement, bridging the gap between student life and broader political engagement. In her work at Sparks and Choice Action Team, she showed a commitment to the overall wellness of her peers. There are many more things I could say, but we only have a limited amount of time, so I’ll just say, Congratulations Amanda!
Involvement:
- Sexual Assault Response Advocates Coordinator
- Transformative Justice Community Tutor and Mentor
- Debate Union
- Colloquium Associate
- ASWU
- Justice
- Class Representative and Communications Officer
- Admissions Ambassador
Jacob Plax
Jacob has consistently put the needs and experiences of younger students at the highest priority, and this is exemplified by his dedication to the Opening Days Program. His engagement in his committee in 2022 went above and beyond that of others in his group. Beyond that, he put blood, sweat, and tears into making Opening Days 2023 the event that it was. He made sure that every leader and incoming student was safe and taken care of. His roles as a leader in the Asian Coalition for Equality and as a manager in the library have helped many other students to feel in community and be their best selves.
Involvement:
- Asian Coalition for Equity President
- Opening Days
- Leader
- Coordinator
- WITS Development Intern
- Hatfield Library Circulation Desk Student Manager
Kayla Stinson
Kayla is one of the few students I know who has actively tried to give back to the communities in which they have benefited. I know they had a tough growing-up so seeing the ways in which they want to give back to others on this campus who have struggled or may be struggling is incredibly impactful. They got the campus to have a course a year or two back on trouble-shooting car/mechanical issues on your own, which can be especially difficult to navigate as a woman without being talked down to or being fleeced because they don't think you know what you're talking about. They also worked in Accessible Education to ensure everyone had equal rights to education on campus.
Involvement:
- Psychology Club
- Member
- President
- Resident Advisor
- Accessible Education Navigation Assistant
- Academic Support Tutor
- Automotive Insight Educational Seminar
- Mosaics Mentor
Ariana Waters
Adriana Waters has been a major force in the development of transformational justice advocacy on campus and beyond. She has served as an outstanding mentor for students who want to learn more about transformational justice. Students in my courses spontaneously bring up transformational justice. This is not only the work of Prof. Buis and Prof. Koomen, this is the work of students deeply involved in creating opportunities for other students to learn about this work and be involved with it. Transformational justice has altered the way students on campus approach solutions to social problems.
- Student Theatre Arts Group for Equity