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2023 Student Organization Award Recipients

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Student Programs and Involvement recognizes and celebrates the recipients of the 2023 Student Organization Awards.

Student organizations help shape the culture and experience of the shared community at K-State. Thank you to everyone who took the time to recognize and nominate your peers for the outstanding work they have done.

The 2023 Student Organization Awards recipients are:

Advisor of the Year: Kevin Santos-Flores, advisor to and nominated by the Hispanic American Leadership Organization

"His active participation in our general body events and direct interaction with members not only boosts morale but also bridges the gap between leadership and the community we serve. Furthermore, their knack for proposing innovative ideas has pushed us to continuously improve and learn in our journey to inspire the next generation of leaders. His presence is not just a show of support, but an active contribution to our discussions, providing valuable insights that guide our decision-making processes."

Commitment to Inclusion and Belonging: Sexuality and Gender Alliance, nominated by a former member.

"The true beauty of this organization is truly in the diversity of people who come together to make the group as welcoming as they do each year. LGBTQ+ people represent all walks of life and this group is a great representation of that. SAGA recognizes and appreciates the uniqueness of individuals everyday. The LGBTQ+ community is a vibrant and colorful community with uniqueness coming out of the seems. Not every day do LGBTQ+ people get the chance to really embrace who they are, but this group consistently provides that affirmation and support."

Student Leader of the Year: Alex Ozga of the Cyber Defense Club, nominated by advisors in the department of computer science.

"One of Alex's major contributions this academic year has been Club financials. The organization’s corporate support had lapsed during COVID, and this student leader led the effort to reestablish contact and renew the sponsorship. He has been especially proactive in reaching out to potential corporate sponsors to secure funding for future competition trips. Alex student also runs organization meetings on their own, organizes workshops for club members to learn more about cybersecurity topics, and finds and schedules guest speakers, most recently, the U.S. Secret Service from their Kansas City office."

Student Organization Event of the Year: The National Coming Out Day Celebration by Social Justice Alliance, nominated by Lily Smith.

"The goals we set for this event were simple: We wanted to provide an environment to remind students that they are safe and respected by the university, and we wanted to get our name out there as a student organization that strives to amplify unheard voices. This event was held on October 11th, and that early in the semester, many students don’t know very many other people and may be struggling to find groups and activities they want to participate in. We were hoping that by bringing a large group of people together to celebrate their identities, we would encourage an environment of positivity and togetherness, and people might get to know new friends."

Student Organization of the Year: Hispanic American Leadership Organization, nominated by Israel Quinonez.

"HALO aims to create student leaders who uphold the well-being of our community while maintaining academic excellence, providing a welcoming environment, and serving as a bridge to university resources and services. Our outreach initiative exemplifies our commitment to community service and member involvement. By encouraging members to propose and lead a community volunteering project, we empower them to take active roles in planning and executing initiatives that give back to the community. This approach not only fosters leadership skills among our members but also ensures that our efforts to support the local community are guided by the passions and insights of those within the organization. This member-driven approach to community service reinforces our dedication to supporting the communities that have nurtured the next generation of leaders. Additionally, this organization is committed to supporting academic excellence through partnerships with TRIO. Our members have access to tutoring while we also providing opportunities to scholarship resources. Overall, HALO has dedicated their efforts to fulfill their mission in promoting leadership, cultural awareness, and academic success within our community."

Congratulations to all of this year's nominees, especially the award recipients. Student Programs and Involvement thanks you for your hard work in making your organizations, and therefore K-State, a welcoming, active and inclusive community through your leadership and support.