DSU TRHLP scholars’ achievements recognized at annual graduation and awards banquet

DSU TRHLP scholars’ achievements recognized at annual graduation and awards banquet

Dickinson State University’s (DSU) Theodore Roosevelt Honors Leadership Program (TRHLP) held a graduation and awards banquet at the Biesiot Activities Center (BAC) Tuesday, May 4, 2021. TRHLP hosts this event annually to recognize students who have made outstanding contributions to the program.

DSU students Alexa Delbridge, Haylie Oberlander, and Logan Wagoner have served as TRHLP’s Student Assistant Directors (SAD) this year. The SADs, along with Mari Kovash, office manager for the program, helped to facilitate the event. “I am so thankful that we were able to host the banquet in-person this year, as last year it got canceled,” said Delbridge. “This banquet is so personal to every member of the program, from faculty to students, and it gives the appropriate recognition to everyone who has contributed to the successful completion of the school year. Tears, laughs and fun memories are always shared at this banquet, making it even more special.”

Dr. Holly McBee, director of TRHLP and professor of English, said, “The graduation and awards banquet is a great chance for the program to celebrate the end of the year and recognize the scholars for the hard work they did all year. This year was difficult because of COVID-19, but, of course, the scholars rose to the challenge and adapted. They helped several groups and individuals in the community.”

TRHLP recognized the scholars who will graduate from the University this spring, including:

Richard Dobbins
Sarah Dobitz
Hunter Flynn
Aspen Lenning
Paxton Miller
Abigail Moberg
Samantha Sheesley
Jacey Wilson

The SADs recognized scholars who were involved in this year’s Theodore Roosevelt Executive Committee (TREC), which helps to organize events and initiatives for the program throughout the year. These individuals included:

Braxtyn Braun
Hailey Enney
Heather Fahy
Alexander Fransen
Sarah Griffis
Abigail Moberg
Hillary Moberg
Naomi Uwagbai

The following awards were bestowed upon scholars, also by the SADs:

Freshman of the Year | Hailey Enney & Logan Greef
TRHLP acknowledges those freshmen who bring new and creative ideas to the program while serving as great examples to their class.

Senior of the Year | Abigail Moberg & Richard Dobbins
TRHLP acknowledges those seniors who bring new and creative ideas to the program while serving as great examples to all.

Three Musketeers | Kyle Anderson, Trey Fischbach, & Kon Speelmon
TRHLP recognized these three individuals for always getting the job done, together.

Extra Mile | Heather Fahy
TRHLP recognized this scholar for performing above and beyond the expectations of the program.

Motivator | Jacey Wilson
TRHLP awarded this individual for encouraging others and setting an example of how to be involved in the program.

Bunsen Burner | Braxtyn Braun
TRHLP recognized this individual for having the ‘hottest’ ideas.

Judge Judy | Hillary Moberg
TRHLP recognized this scholar for always being on her ‘A’ game and not being afraid to correct minor details and suggest ideas.

Head Cheerleader | Hunter Flynn
TRHLP awarded this individual for having the most ‘TR’ spirit and having excellent involvement in the program’s activities.

Adjunct faculty member Margaret Marcusen was also recognized during the banquet in appreciation of her dedication to teaching and supporting the program’s scholars for nearly 20 years. “She recently retired and we wanted to give her the proper appreciation for everything she has done for the program,” said Oberlander.

The scholars closed out the event with a heartfelt ‘thank you’ to McBee, who is stepping down from her role as director. “This year’s banquet was a little more special as we gave a proper farewell to an amazing director of the program over the last five years,” said Delbridge. “We appreciate all that Dr. Holly McBee has done, and the impact she made on the program will be forever cherished.”

“It has been such a joy to be part of the TRHLP these past five years,” said McBee. “I am grateful to Mari Kovash and all the scholars for making this one of the best experiences of my life.”

View photos from the event here.