Minnesota Campus Compact is a network of colleges and universities that works to support civic engagement and build a strong democracy. On April 19, three of SMSU’s own will be honored with Campus Compact Awards. Individuals are nominated for the Campus Compact Awards and are selected by President Connie Gores.

Student Steven Yang will be honored with the Presidents’ Student Leadership Award. Yang is very involved on campus. He has served in many roles on campus including student body vice president and resident assistant. On his Student Leadership Award, Yang makes this comment.

“I would first like to thank the individual(s) who nominated me for the award. Hard work does pay off,” Yang said. “I have been fortunate enough to be heavily involved on campus and being recognized for it is the icing on the cake.”

Professor Marianne Zarzana is awarded the Presidents’ Civic Engagement Steward Award for her commitment to promoting civic engagement.

“I could not have been more surprised, honored and humbled to receive this award,” Zarzana said.

Zarzana advances SMSU civic mission through her involvement with Creating Spaces Writing Contest, Marshall Literary Festival and organizing the Mallard Island Program Week. Of Creating Spaces Writing Contest, Zarzana says that is her favorite outreach program. Creating Spaces Writing Contest is a lot of work, but Zarzana says it’s worth it and that “it is more important than ever that our young people’s voices are heard”.

The club Bridges International was awarded the Presidents’ Community Partner Award. Bridges works to connect international students with American culture and the Marshall Community. Through Bridges, students participate in homestays and community service projects. Student Yu-Min, says Bridges helps her meet new friends and learn more about America. Yu-Min attended the Bridges mission trip to Houston over winter break and says that she enjoys the opportunities to help others.

The three award recipients will be honored with an awards luncheon that is scheduled to take place at Hamline University in St. Paul.