04/24/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 04/24/2024 21:44
The University of Minnesota Crookston held its annual Student Awards Ceremony April 18 in Bede Ballroom and honored a number of individuals for their hard work and dedication over the school year. Among those recognized were UMC Students of the Year - Jackie Calderon, Tristan Morneault, and Gracie Rouland.
The UMC Student of the Year award goes to a junior or senior who best demonstrates the skills and commitment required to succeed in college, business, and life while exhibiting Golden Eagle Pride, professionalism, and strong work ethic, all while excelling in academics.
In their Student of the Year nominations:
Jackie Calderon was described as making the most of her time on campus, taking every opportunity that came her way. She's a member of the NCAA soccer team and a representative to the Student Athletic Advisory Committee. Calderon is a double major student in marketing and communications, and has had internships with University Relations, Alumni and Donor Relations, and Athletics. She champions diversity, equity, and belonging, and has shared her story during Hispanic Heritage Month and in first generation spotlight features. Calderon has advocated for accessibility by coordinating efforts to make sure the sidewalks on campus are ADA compliant and has shared a recent petition and photos with Chancellor Mary Holz-Clause. She has also expanded her reach into the community and beyond by assisting with alumni events and efforts, and coordinating the opening event for the university's leased space downtown. Calderon is also a member of the Campus Advisory and Advancement Board (CAAB) and Campus Art Committee, plus she recently worked to create a comprehensive marketing plan for the City of Crookston's Parks and Recreation department. She has balanced all of her co-curricular endeavors while maintaining exceptional academic standing and doing it all with steadfast, kindness, and integrity, said the Chancellor.
Tristan Morneault was described as taking the entire Golden Eagle student experience since his first day on campus as a freshman and making an impact on many groups on and off campus. He has consistently excelled academically while being a dual sport athlete, and maintaining leadership positions in various clubs and organizations. Specifically, Morneault has served in leadership roles in the Student Athletic Advisory Committee, Sports & Recreation Management Club, and Golden Eagle Entertainment. He also served as a Student Orientation Staff leader for two years and as a student ambassador for the Office of Admissions. You may have also seen Morneault working at the campus Info Desk. Morneault has helped organize mental health initiatives, blood drives, and donation drives for children within the community, plus he volunteered to sandbag when the river was at a high level two years ago. His nominator emphasized his class, poise, and personality, stating that he exemplifies what it means to be a Golden Eagle. The Chancellor mentioned he is quite personable and always takes time to engage meaningful conversations with faculty, staff, and his fellow students. Morneault has played a critical role in the recruitment and retention of student leaders, and will leave a legacy for the leaders he has guided.
Gracie Rouland was described as a detail-oriented, positive, passionate, committed, and natural leader. She has dedicated her time to the success of her fellow students through leadership roles including Student Orientation Staff specialist, acting as a peer mentor, academic success coach, and academic peer tutor. Rouland has been involved in Golden Eagle Entertainment, Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society, and Ag Arama. She's been employed in the campus mail room and as a student ambassador for the Office of Admissions. Whether it's a short interaction in the mail room or long hours preparing for the Welcome Weekend event, Rouland has been a joy while interacting with students and they can attest to her kindness and warmth. She consistently goes above and beyond, comfortable, and to make others feel welcome on campus. Rouland has extended her reach around campus and beyond representing the Crookston campus at the State Capitol during University of Minnesota Day at the Capitol, and has frequently volunteered her time representing the campus in a positive light. She is an embodiment of good character, always acting with honesty and empathy, her nominator wrote. Her unwavering positivity, drive, and generosity made her an exceptional candidate for the award, said the Chancellor.
The full list of award recipients included:
UMC Student of the Year - Gracie Rouland
See a gallery of photos from the event here:
Watch the event recording here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GfEApixlBqo