Ashley Paulisick, a senior criminal justice major at PennWest Clarion, has earned Tau Beta Sigma’s highest student honor, The Baton Leadership Award. Paulisick, president of the PennWest Clarion chapter of Tau Beta Sigma Band Sorority, received the award after attending the Northeast District Convention held in March.

Established at the organization’s 2001 National Convention, The Baton is presented to student members who demonstrate exceptional leadership, service and integrity within their chapters and beyond. Paulisick was selected for her professionalism, maturity and ability to guide her chapter through complex challenges while fostering collaboration and shared purpose.

“It was such an honor to win this award,” Paulisick said. “Tau Beta Sigma is an organization that I have come to love so much. At the chapter level, it’s full of my best friends, and at the district and national levels, it’s full of people I deeply respect. I spent a lot of time this past year working with others to straighten things out within our individual chapter, and it was so incredible to see that be recognized at a higher level.”

A native of Export, Pennsylvania, Paulisick has played a key role in strengthening the chapter’s foundation, helping create a more positive and unified environment rooted in professionalism and mutual respect. Her leadership also extends beyond Tau Beta Sigma. As a majorette with the Golden Eagles Marching Band, she serves as an ambassador for the PennWest band program and regularly engages with prospective students.

“Ashley leads with a level of professionalism, integrity and composure that truly sets her apart,” said Dr. Erin Lewis, field services coordinator and advisor for the PennWest Clarion chapter of Tau Beta Sigma. “She steps into challenging situations, listens thoughtfully and guides others toward resolution. She doesn’t avoid difficult moments — she leads through them.”

Paulisick’s campus involvement has shaped her PennWest experience. In addition to Tau Beta Sigma and the marching band, she has participated in the Honors Program, TRiO, ASL Club, peer mentoring and choir. She credits the marching band, which she joined as a first-year student, with helping her find her place on campus and build lasting connections.

"Ashley has been a wonderful asset to the band program while at PennWest Clarion,” said Lisa Hummel, director of bands. “As a member of the band office staff, she has exemplified what model all staff should follow in the future, and her bright and vibrant personality is a welcoming presence to all band members.  Her work as the president of Tau Beta Sigma is just another example of her outstanding leadership characteristics."

Academically, Paulisick’s interest in criminal justice developed through family influences and early exposure to the field. She will graduate in May with a Bachelor of Science in criminal justice administration and a minor in honors interdisciplinary studies. Her career goals include working in corrections, with the long-term aim of becoming a probation officer in the Pittsburgh region.

Paulisick credits mentors such as her advisor, Dr. Jennifer Boyer, and Hummel for helping guide her growth through coursework, leadership roles and a hands-on internship with a county probation office.

“I believe my experience at Clarion has prepared me for the future by providing me with a wide range of opportunities that have given me valuable life skills and really brought me out of my shell,” she said. “I feel that I am a much more outgoing and knowledgeable person than I was four years ago.”

As she prepares to graduate, Paulisick encourages incoming students to get involved.

“Find something you enjoy,” she said. “This can give you great memories, new friends and opportunities for growth. Make your best attempt to enjoy every moment because it goes by quickly.”