Honors of Distinction candidates announced at DWU

MITCHELL, S.D. — Twelve Dakota Wesleyan University students are finalists for the Honors of Distinction awards, the highest honors given to students in their senior year at the university.

Established in 2022, the Wesleyan Honors of Distinction are awarded annually to four Dakota Wesleyan University seniors who have most notably embodied and exemplified the university’s values of learning, leadership, faith and service. One senior receives Wesleyan Honors of Distinction in each category.

To qualify for candidacy, students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.25 or higher (3.7 for the learning distinction), as required by each award’s guidelines and be ranked as senior status. Those eligible submit an application, and the finalists are selected by a Student Senate-appointed panel. The finalists are then interviewed by a committee of students, staff and faculty who choose the recipients.

Candidates for the Wesleyan Honor of Distinction for Learning

Students receiving this honor demonstrate academic strength by conventional measures like their grade point average. They also distinguish themselves by demonstrating a love of learning that extends beyond the classroom, whether in the form of research, community involvement or activism. They demonstrate and model adaptability, creative and critical thinking, artistic expression, innovation, collaboration and cultivating a deeper understanding of our global community.

The nominees are Alyssa Burke, Rapid City; Ryan Mix, Sioux Falls; and Julia Sanderson, Sioux Falls.

Candidates for the Wesleyan Honor of Distinction for Leadership

Students receiving this honor usually take on a variety of leadership roles over the course of their Dakota Wesleyan careers. They distinguish themselves through the initiative, motivation and passion that they demonstrate in leadership roles, both on campus and in the broader community. Students receiving this honor also regularly demonstrate significant growth and maturity as leaders.

The nominees are Brooklyn Boetel, Huron; Ady Dwight, Langford; and Drew Van Regenmorter, Dell Rapids.

Candidates for the Wesleyan Honor of Distinction for Faith

Students receiving this honor tend to be active and involved with campus ministry. They distinguish themselves by modeling John Wesley’s Christ-centered model of uniting knowledge, reason and vital faith in a breadth of curricular and cocurricular activities. They exhibit strong moral character and demonstrate deep respect for other faith traditions, as well as an ability to engage authentically with others despite differences.

The nominees are Reagan Grossi, Vail, Ariz.; Audrey Koesters, Omaha, Neb.; and Adaya Plastow, Mitchell.

Candidates for the Wesleyan Honor of Distinction for Service

Students receiving this honor engage consistently in a host of service activities and projects over the course of their Dakota Wesleyan University careers. They distinguish themselves by inspiring and empowering others to make a difference through creative, genuine service. Rooted in DWU’s Methodist heritage, service is a natural extension of the university’s nurturing community.

The nominees are Esther Garcia, Dodge City, Kan.; Katy Sebert, Mitchell; and Laney Titze, Mitchell.

The winners will be announced at the annual Honors Banquet to be held on Friday, April 26, at 6 p.m. The banquet will be livestreamed at www.dwu.edu/live.