ABOUT
The Division of Student Affairs created Graduating Student Leaders Reception in order to formally thank graduating seniors who have been instrumentally involved in its co-curricular programs during their academic careers. The students are recognized at a ceremony for their time and commitment to the university as a student leader. They are presented with a Graduating Student Leader medallion that is intended to be worn over the robe during the students’ commencement in order to fully signify and recognize this honor that student leaders will receive.
The spring graduation ceremony also announces the winner of the annual Jenny Runkles Watercarrier Award for Leadership.
Nominations for the Spring 2022 reception will be open on March 23rd, 2022 and can be submitted here. Students who graduated in the Fall 2021 Semester or Spring 2022 Semester are eligible to be nominated.
For more information please contact Jonas Zabriskie via email at jezabris@uark.edu
Our 2022 Graduating Student Leaders
Jenny Runkles Watercarrier Award for Leadership
The Watercarrier Award for Leadership, renamed in memory of Jenny Runkles in 2002, honors a University of Arkansas student who embodies the spirit of the “Watercarrier.” Jenny Runkles, an alumna of the University of Arkansas, exemplified that spirit in all activities in which she was involved. Tragically killed in a car accident in June of 2001, Jenny’s memory continues to live in our hearts and through this award. This award is given annually, and recipients are recognized at the Graduating Student Leaders breakfast held each May.
To receive this special honor, the candidate will be nominated by a mentor and should embody the spirit of leadership as described by the philosopher and corporate leader, Max DePree. The selection committee uses the following criteria when selecting the recipient:
- Commitment to problem-solving and organizational development;
- Dedication to the goals, mission, and beliefs of the organization;
- Advocating organizational responsibility from leaders and respect from followers;
- Fostering change.
For more information please contact the New Student & Family Programs office by phone (479) 575-5002 or email nsfp@uark.edu
2022 Jenny Runkles Watercarrier Award for Leadership Winner
Hanna Patel
2022 Award Recipient
Leadership Defined
“The most successful people see adversity not as a stumbling block, but as a stepping-stone to greatness” – Shawn Anchor. This mantra is illustrative of how I view the challenges that I have faced as motivation to get to where I am today and where I hope to be in the future. The intersections of my identities and the challenges that have come along with them has fueled my desire to serve as a resource and role model for all students who see a reflection of themselves in me. As an Indian American, as a daughter of two immigrants, a first generation American, and most importantly, a woman, my experience as a student leader at the University of Arkansas has been rooted in seizing all opportunities and paving the way for other students to come after me. I came to the University of Arkansas from West Memphis Arkansas as a first-generation college student. I was nervous and skeptical about beginning my college journey because I felt the burden of having to learn how to navigate my own path to graduation. I did not have anyone to guide me through college as a first generation American. However, my freshman year was a life-changing experience because it was the first time I have been surrounded by a community of people who understood where I came from and the challenges that resulted from my background. I came across individuals who genuinely saw me and accepted me for who I am. I give credit to this positive experience to the Accelerated Student Achievement Program (ASAP). This program helps first generation students from the underserved and underrepresented communities of the Arkansas Delta get acclimated to college by taking summer courses and participating in mentorship. I believe this program provided me with the resources and mentorship to succeed as a student and student leader at the UofA. That summer, I was able to take an in-depth tour of the campus before classes began, attend tutoring sessions, receive mentorship from Kevin Smith Jr., who was in the same college as myself, and had exposure to leadership opportunities such as ASG. With these resources, I was more prepared to begin freshman year with a head start, something many first-generation students don’t have access to. The following year, my sophomore year, I was so grateful for the mentorship I received, I wanted to ensure that this contribution was reciprocated by me. I was able to be a mentor to eight freshmen whose shoes I once walked in as well. It was so fulfilling to be able to assist those individuals. Sometimes all they needed was a listening ear, someone they can trust to ask questions, or as little as someone to go study with. I was adamant to be there for my mentees in any way they needed. For a system that wasn’t originally designed for students like us to succeed, I can proudly say each one of us is on a successful path to graduation. All these life experiences that I have faced play a huge part in my passion for serving the community around me. The ASAP program pushed me to ensure I continue to advocate for the underserved communities within our campus in every leadership role that I have the ability to hold. I can proudly say at the end of my UofA career, I was able to advocate for the entire student body on the highest platform available as Student Body Treasurer. This role gives me the platform to advocate for the underserved, marginalized communities around our campus in every decision that is being made about student needs. I couldn’t be more thankful for the experiences and opportunities the UofA has given me. It has been an honor to serve this community.