The Associated Students of Wyoming (ASUW) hosted their end-of-year banquet on Wednesday, April 28 to recognize and honor the organization’s achievements during the 110th administration.
“This year has been particularly challenging. Yet, despite these challenges, you all rose to the occasion and continue to work tirelessly to make a positive impact on the student body. Your resilience in the face of adversity has been truly remarkable,” Associate Director Lucas Hansen said.
“As the academic year comes to a close, I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you who have served on the student government. Your dedication, hard work, and perseverance have been inspiring, and your impact has been significant.”
The first awards presented were voted on by ASUW’s Professional-Staff, which Hansen is a part of. The Secretary of the Year went to Senator Madyson Willis, and Senator Ashlynee Meiklejohn received the Emerging Leader of the Year award.
These were followed by The Strong Work Ethic award, presented to Anthony Castronovo and The New-Arrival of the Year award for to Paden Knull. Senator Tanner Ewalt accepted the ASUW’s Selfless award. After Director of Finance, Patrick Hamilton went on to win the Outstand Excellence award.
The Professional Staff Awards ended with The Best Dressed Award being given to Senator Cole Schliebe.
The banquet then went on to the Senate Awards, which were voted on by the legislative branch of ASUW. Student of the Year went to Mason Brummel, and Rhiannon Skye McLean won Senator of the Year. Budgeting and Planning went home with Committee of the Year, with Senator Colter Anderson accepting the award. Rylan Knopp was named First-Year Senator of the Year.
Union Operations Director Quinn Marquardt won Outstanding External Contribution. And ASUW accountant Shelly Schaef was awarded for her distinguished service. This is her third time winning that award.
“Shelly’s unwavering commitment to service has been a model for us all,” Vice President Hunter Swilling said. “Her empathy and willingness to help others have made her a beloved figure amongst students and amongst her colleagues.”
“No matter what, Shelly can always be counted on to do the right thing. And this is one of the rarest qualities of all. She’s been a mentor, advisor, and friend to countless members of the UW community, and her contributions will be felt for years to come.”
President Allison Brown then took the stage to award the Sarah Axelson Awards, which are voted on by Brown and given to seniors at ASUW who went above and beyond for the organization.
Brown then read a letter to each recipient before giving them their award. The winners of this award are Senator Colter Anderson, Senator Madison Engelby, Senator Brittant Stadler, Student Engagement Coordinator Maeve Knepper, Director of Sustainability Luke Macy, and Vice President Hunter Swilling.
Each graduating senior was given a graduation stole and cord.
