Selamawit Yilma is the 2025 Keepers of the Flame recipient for PennWest Clarion. The Keepers of the Flame Award honors individuals whose leadership, dedication and impact have strengthened the PASSHE community.
A senior majoring in molecular biology with a minor in chemistry, Yilma maintains a 3.69 GPA. She is from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and came to Clarion to pursue undergraduate studies.
Yilma is described as a remarkable student leader whose influence reaches across academic, cultural and community spheres at PennWest Clarion. As president of both the Black Student Union and Model United Nations, she champions equity, inclusion and global understanding.
“I am motivated to be a leader in diversity, equity and inclusion because I believe everyone deserves to feel valued and heard,” Yilma said. “I have seen how differences in background or identity can affect opportunities and create barriers, and I want to help build spaces where all voices are respected and appreciated.”
Yilma promotes inclusion to help everyone have an equal chance to succeed and contribute.
“These recipients exemplify how a commitment to student success, inclusive excellence and academic achievement can transform lives, open doors and inspire others across our campuses,” said Christa Cobb, assistant vice chancellor and chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer.
Yilma’s reach goes beyond the students, faculty and staff at PennWest Clarion. She demonstrates reliability, initiative and trusted leadership through independent supervision of the Codebusters event in Science Olympiad, a STEM competition for primary and secondary students, which the campus hosts in the spring.
“Serving as an officer in multiple organizations and working in different roles has strengthened my teamwork, leadership and problem-solving skills. Volunteering with organizations has taught me the importance of communication and community service,” she said. “These experiences help me manage challenges, find solutions under pressure, and grow, both personally and academically.”
Whether mentoring peers, guiding campus tours, or organizing inclusive events, she leads with heart and vision. Yilma doesn’t just participate; she elevates every space she enters, leaving a legacy of connection, excellence and care. Her warmth, intelligence and tireless dedication have earned her multiple honors, including Student of the Year and the Presidential Award.
“After graduation, I plan to use the knowledge and experiences I’ve gained at PennWest Clarion to make a positive difference in my field and community,” Yilma said. “My goal is to attend medical school or work in a field that combines my background in computer science and molecular biology. I want to apply what I've learned to help advance healthcare and technology in ways that improve people's lives.”
Pictured: Sheleta Camarda-Webb, PennWest's associate vice president of CORE Strategic Initiatives, and Selamawit Yilma