All News

Edinboro

PennWest Edinboro honors student leaders at Club and Organization Awards

Winners at the 2025 PennWest Edinboro Club and Organization Awards

Students, advisors and campus leaders gathered to celebrate the energy and impact of PennWest Edinboro’s student organizations during the PennWest Edinboro Club and Organization Awards. The annual event recognized the students and groups whose leadership, service, creativity and advocacy help shape campus life.

Hosted by student emcees Aiden Dougan and Sade Taylor, the evening highlighted the achievements of individuals and organizations that have strengthened the Fighting Scots community through engagement, service and innovation.

The Unsung Champion Award, which recognizes students who make a difference behind the scenes, was presented to Jaden Bartlett. Bartlett is involved in several campus groups including Alpha Phi Omega, Dramatic Activities, University Players, the PennWest Leadership Academy and the Animation Club. Known for reliability and willingness to help with any task, Bartlett played a key role in organizing Alpha Phi Omega’s Homecoming activities.

The Fighting Scots Award, honoring an organization that exemplifies initiative, creativity and perseverance, went to 88.9 WFSE Fighting Scots Radio. The student-run station expanded its campus presence with a diverse lineup of student-led shows and strengthened engagement by promoting campus events and training new DJs. Through its programming and collaborative spirit, WFSE continues to amplify student voices and enhance campus culture.

The MacCato Award, recognizing an outstanding organizational leader, was awarded to Jennifer Wisanwanit of the Student Nurses Organization of Edinboro (SNOE). Wisanwanit has been a dedicated member since her first year, never missing an event or fundraiser and encouraging collaboration with other campus groups. She also helped organize travel and logistics for students attending the National Student Nurses Association Convention.

The Outstanding Alumni Award was presented to Erika Goss, whose continued mentorship and involvement with Kappa Kappa Psi has strengthened the organization long after her graduation. Goss regularly supports events and mentors prospective members, helping preserve the group’s traditions while fostering an inclusive environment.

The Outside the Box Award, which celebrates creativity in programming and outreach, was given to the Social Work Club for initiatives such as “Safe Sex and Sweets” and the campus Movember campaign promoting men’s mental health awareness.

Two students were recognized with the Rising Star Award for their early leadership impact: Kasey Ramey, a Highland Ambassador and Circle K treasurer known for his dedication to campus engagement, and Sade Taylor, Student Government Association parliamentarian, who has quickly become a strong advocate and resource for student organizations.

The Community Impact Award was presented to the Highland Ambassadors, whose members completed 1,228 hours of community service in 2025. Ambassadors contribute extensively to campus events including Welcome Weekend, Homecoming, admissions programs, alumni events and commencement.

The Spirit of Service Award recognized Kylie Peters of Student PSEA, whose positive attitude and dedication to volunteerism have inspired her peers. Peters, who will serve as the organization’s president in 2026, is known for her enthusiasm and commitment to supporting both the campus and surrounding community.

The Noble Scot Award, honoring an outstanding advisor, was presented to Dr. Alexis Parks, co-advisor of the Student Nurse Organization of Edinboro. An Edinboro alumnus and former SNOE member, Parks is recognized for her dedication to mentoring students and supporting their academic and professional development.

The Leaders in Action Award was presented to the Student Nurses Organization of Edinboro, which emphasizes leadership development through mentorship opportunities, professional speakers, career preparation events and participation in the National Student Nurses Association conference.

The Advocacy Award went to Gavin Mitsdarfer, a student leader whose work spans campus, state and national advocacy efforts. Mitsdarfer has championed issues such as student teacher stipend funding, inclusive education and disability accessibility while holding leadership roles with the Pennsylvania State Education Association and the National Education Association.

The Best New Student Organization Award was presented to the Creation of Games Society, a club founded in spring 2025 that provides students opportunities to collaborate on game development projects, host game jams, and learn from industry professionals.

The Multicultural Award was awarded to Kappa Kappa Psi, recognized for fostering an inclusive environment that welcomes members from diverse backgrounds while promoting collaboration and cultural awareness.

Two student leaders were honored with the President of the Year Award: Bailey Clark, president of the Highland Ambassadors, and Ben Kalmey, president of WFSE. Clark was recognized for guiding the Ambassadors through a leadership transition with compassion and professionalism, while Kalmey revitalized WFSE’s presence on campus through recruitment, programming, and event participation.

The Committee’s Choice Award was presented to Aiden Dougan for his wide-ranging contributions to campus life. Dougan serves as a student trustee, choir member, admissions tour guide, radio host, and student worker across multiple departments, demonstrating exceptional dedication to the university community.

Greek Life Honors

Greek Life awards were hosted by Alison Jones of Zeta Tau Alpha and Logan Abbey of Theta Chi.

  • Philanthropy of the Year: Fulcrum for Food, hosted by Lambda Chi Alpha, which collected more than 300 pounds of food valued at nearly $10,000 for the Edinboro Food Pantry.
  • Greek President of the Year: Logan Abbey (Theta Chi), who led the re-founding of the fraternity on campus.
  • Greek Woman of the Year: Brinley O’Sullivan (Zeta Tau Alpha) and Skylar Hotchkiss (Alpha Sigma Alpha).
  • Greek Man of the Year: Joey Copple (Phi Mu Alpha).
  • Greek Organization of the Year: Zeta Tau Alpha, recognized for its strong campus leadership and nearly $2,000 raised for breast cancer awareness and education.

Together, the award recipients demonstrate the breadth of leadership and involvement that define student life at PennWest Edinboro. Through service projects, advocacy efforts, creative programming and community engagement, these students and organizations continue to strengthen the campus community and uphold the Fighting Scots spirit.