The Best of the Crest ceremony held on Sunday, April 23, at the Alumnae Hall Auditorium celebrated the accomplishments of Cedar Crest College’s student leaders. Recognizing excellence beyond the classroom, the awards highlight the contributions made by students through their exemplary leadership in various clubs, organizations, and other opportunities.
Student Government Association Awards
Emerging Student Leader Award – Corinne O’Connor
For a first-year student or sophomore who has shown initiative, motivation, and potential for continued student leadership early in their career.
Capstone Student Leader Award- Emily Demarest
For a student in their junior or senior year who has demonstrated a capacity for impacting the Cedar Crest community and served as a role model to younger students.
Outstanding Student Involvement Award – Morgan Bentley
To the individual who is highly involved within the campus community without sacrificing efficiency and dedication.
The Bridge Award – Rachel Bilger
To the individual who has demonstrated outstanding innovation and leadership in bridging the gap between co-curricular activities.
Unsung Hero Award – Madelyn Chase
For a student from any class level who may or may not hold a formal position, but whose behind-the-scenes dedication and labors have proven invaluable to the success of a project, program, cause, or movement on campus.
Student Organization of the Year – Psychology Club
For a student organization that has consistently made positive contributions to the campus community and encouraged leadership through its membership, events, or programmatic initiatives.
Miguel Marroquin Staff Award- Lynnsae Powers
Dedicated to the family and staff of Miguel Marroquin. Given to the staff member who demonstrates a students-first attitude and commitment to working with students.
Outstanding Advisor Award – Crystal Stubbs
Given to the advisor who has been deemed by their club or organization as someone who has shown dedication to supporting the club, its members, and the events and programmatic initiatives created by the membership.
Outstanding Graduate Student Award – Cristina Lemus
For a graduate student who has demonstrated a capacity for impacting the Cedar Crest community through their initiatives, motivation, and student leadership.
Senior Crest Awards
Religio – Carter Reichard
The seated figure on the left of the Seal represents a student who strives to apply enduring standards of value to the circumstances of their life, to guide their own actions, and to demonstrate those values to others.
Libertas – Rosemarie Kramer
The figure in the center of the Seal represents a student who stands as a guardian of the liberal arts and the personal freedom of individuals.
Scientia – Joslyn Schwieterman
The seated figure on the right of the Seal represents a student who scans the globe for opportunities to extend their learning skills into the community for the benefit of others.
Residence Life Awards
Rising Resident Award – Zenaidia Douglas
This award recognizes a resident student who can always be seen in the residence halls, engaging with the residential community, and attending events.
One to Watch Award – Rachel Bilger
Given to a new RA, who has worked as an RA for one year or less, who has exceeded job expectations and really grown into the role of an RA.
Resident Advisor of the Year Award – Catherine Strickland
Given to the RA who consistently exceeds the job requirements and develops a strong sense of community in their residence hall.
First Year Experience Awards
Mentor of the Year – Alexandria Porchik
Awarded to the mentor who has shown exceptional work ethic and support for their students.
Rookie Mentor of the Year – Anaya Duncan
Awarded to the first-time mentor who has shown exceptional work ethic and support for their students.
Most Improved Mentor – Tyssina Bright
Awarded to the mentor who has shown exceptional growth and the ability to implement feedback into their role.
Service Leader Awards
Volunteer Organization of the Year – Psychology Club
Awarded to the club or organization that serves through their interests and actions to recognize, advocate, and effect positive social change for our community.
Student Volunteer of the Year – Maliha Asad
Awarded to a student who embodies the knowledge of service and accepts opportunities for action while also recognizing, advocating, and effecting positive change for our community.
Faculty/Staff Volunteer of the Year – Cara Cavall
Awarded to a faculty and/or staff member that actively utilizes their time and skills to recognize, advocate, and effect positive social change for our community.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Awards
Inclusion Advocate of the Year – Charlie McClain
Awarded to a student who, through their work at the Center for Diversity and Inclusion (CDI) for the last year, has gone above and beyond to fulfill their role as an Inclusion Advocate.
Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion Award – Nicole Lewis
Awarded to someone who, throughout the year, has embodied the Cedar Crest College Diversity Statement and has encouraged others through their work, academia, and/or service.
Student Government Association Executive Board (sworn in at ceremony)
President – Noor Hussain
Vice President – Tyssina Bright
Secretary – Maliha Asad
Treasurer – Shyanna Gashinsky
Student Activities Board Executive Board (sworn in at ceremony)
President – Madison Wolfinger
Vice President – Morgan Bentley
Secretary – Meghan Paulus
Treasurer – Shyanna Gashinsky
Community Outreach Coordinator – Corinne O’Connor
Large Events Coordinator – Mahek “Jayden” Dhawan
Road Trip Coordinator – Isabel Sandone
Congratulations to all!