Nicole Walentowski and Kyle Vonruden both received the Outstanding Student Awards from the Department of Political Science. Both students are graduating this spring with a major in Political Science. They were selected to receive this award because of their outstanding scholarship while at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh.

Here is what Nicole had to say when she found out she won the award: “I am truly honored to be receiving an Outstanding Student Award this year. I have learned so much and enjoyed my experience as a political science major over the past four years. I appreciate all of the time and help faculty members gave me in order to make earning this award possible.”

Here is what Kyle had to say when he found out he won the award: “I'm honored that the Political Science faculty have selected me for this award. I've put a substantial amount of effort into my coursework here at UWO, and it feels great to have that effort recognized. I'm grateful for the time and dedication the professors and administrative staff give to students in the major, and I'm confident my experiences here will prove to be of great value in the years ahead.”

Molly Kopplin was selected to receive the Isaac Kayando Leadership Award. The award is given to a Political Science major who demonstrates outstanding leadership skills and commitment to leadership while at UW Oshkosh. Political Science Chair David Siemers praised Molly by noting that her “service and leadership credentials would be the envy of most Assistant Professors up for promotion.”

Congratulations to Molly, who will receive a $100 gift certificate at our awards banquet. Here is what Molly had to say when she found out she won the award: One of my favorite quotes is from David Frost. He said, “Don't aim for success if you want it; just do what you love and believe in, and it will come naturally.” That's all I really did - I found things I enjoyed doing and devote my time and energy to them. I've loved all the opportunities I've taken at UW Oshkosh and hope more people realize that getting involved is an inherent good.