Hard work and dedication across campus communities were recognized.

Last Thursday, April 5, a banquet was held to celebrate this year’s student life awards.

The annual celebration aimed to highlight the many accomplishments that were made by students throughout the year.

“It was interesting to see all the different types of groups that students have created,” said creative writing senior Rachel Schienke.

Kim Brandimore, director of the student life center, opened the evening by saying it was a pleasure to see the students that add creativity and character to the University’s image.

“I would like to recognize the efforts of all who applied and who were in attendance tonight,” Brandimore said. “This ceremony is for them.”

Throughout the evening, a number of students were recognized for involvement in more than one RSO.

Criminal justice and sociology senior Amanda Helton was given the impact award and the student organization of the year award through her involvement with Living Proud.

The impact award was given to Helton and four other juniors and seniors who made a marked commitment to enhance the quality of student life at SVSU.

The student organization of the year award was given to Living Proud for being successful in reaching out to students in a positive way on campus.

“This was an amazing and very exciting experience,” Helton said. “It’s definitely great to be recognized for our work.”

Helton said anyone looking to make a difference should try to collaborate and learn about perspective.

Computer and electric engineering sophomore Brian White was also given an award for his work as a part of Living Proud. Additionally, he was one of nine other students who received the rising leader award, which was given to freshmen and sophomores who have made an impact on campus and who have the potential to make a significant difference in the future.

“I was honestly very surprised to win,” White said. “It’s great to think that all of us could be rising leaders.”

While talking about inspiration, White urged students to get involved on campus in as many ways as they can.

“I had a great role model when I was an RA,” White said. “I learned about helping others and it really made a difference for me.”

Accounting senior Vance Fulton received the exemplary leadership award, which was presented to students who went above and beyond the tasks that were expected of them.

“It feels great to be acknowledged like this,” Fulton said. “It’s always nice to see hard work pay off.”

Fulton urged students to take advantage of opportunities on campus. He talked about how since graduating from high school he raised his grades and how the SVSU experience helped him better himself.

“I think we had a wonderful turnout overall,” Brandimore said. “I thought that the students here have accomplished tremendous work and they deserve to be recognized.”

Brandimore also commented on the uniqueness of the event.

“Every year I see so many devoted young people,” Brandimore said. “This is one of my favorite events because not only do you get to celebrate the success of some, but you get to see the students being supportive of one another, which is a big part of why we have the student life awards in the first place.”