Welcome to the University of Iowa

College of EducationGRADUATE STUDENT RECOGNITION OPEN HOUSE

In April an email was sent to all faculty and staff asking that they recommend graduate students for recognition that might not be

formally recognized in other ways. They were asked to write a brief line or two about how the student contributes for publication at the Open House and on the Graduate Student Web Site. The following

are 31 students who are being recognized today.

Graduate Student Appreciation 2013

Dr. Kristen Missall wrote: "Stephanie entered the

school psychology program with a range of

experiences working as a social worker and a Court

Appointed Special Advocate. During graduate school,

Stephanie has specifically acquired

additional and unique experiences with

challenging student populations in the

juvenile justice and welfare system, which is

the topic of her dissertation. This past

year she has been working full-time as a

school psychologist for the Grant Wood AEA. This fall she will begin an APA-

approved internship at the Home of the

Innocents in Louisville, Kentucky."

Stephanie Anthony has been a student in the PhD degree program in School Psychology since 2008.  She completed a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at The University of Iowa in 2006 and the EdS degree also at The University of Iowa.

Dr. Volker Thomas wrote: "In his 1st year in the Couple and Family Therapy Program, Andy has an

article accepted as co-author in the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, which is the leading

journal in the field."

Andrew Beer has been a student in the PhD degree program in Couple and Family Therapy since 2012.  He completed a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Mount Mercy College in 2010 and also a Master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy at Mount Mercy University.

Dr. Susan Assouline wrote the following:  “Amanda Berns is an exceptional student in the school psychology program.  Prior to entering the program, she was involved in working with individuals with an autism spectrum disorder and was second author on a very important paper published in Journal of Autism and Developmental Disability.  She will continue to develop this area of interest and burgeoning expertise during her APPIC internship next year at the Devereux Foundation.   For the past two years, she has also served as a graduate assistant at the Belin-Blank Center.  She is part of a 3-person grad student team that is assigned to advise and mentor the Belin-Blank Center’s undergrads.  As with everything she does, Amanda gives this responsibility her entire attention, she cares deeply about all of the students, and has fulfilled this commitment with grace and respect.  These are just a few of the reasons I am recommending Amanda for graduate student recognition.”

Amanda Berns has been a student in the PhD degree program in School Psychology since 2009.  She completed a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at The University of Iowa in 2005.

Dr. Bonnie Sunstein wrote: 'Certainly, we ought to honor our Grad Tutors at the Collaborative Writing Consultancy:  Puja Birla, Scott Fratella, and Luis Abner Lopez-Febres.  Puja and Scott are in the T&L MAT program, and Luis is in the MA in English Education.  They are tireless and highly organized advocates for all COE graduate students doing many kinds of writing, from dissertations and comprehensive exam preparation to professional articles to class exercises.  They meet each student's individual needs as they consult, and follow the our philosophy at the CWC, working collaboratively with all students to help them improve their overall plans and content of their papers, offer ideas for developing their work, and make follow-up appointments. This year, we have had 100% of our time filled with graduate student writers."

Puja Birla has been a student in the MAT degree program in English Education since 2012.  She completed a Bachelor’s degree in English at University of Mumbai in 1999 and an MFA in Nonfiction Writing at The University of Iowa

Dr. Susannah Wood wrote: "Janice continues to keep me on my toes as an instructor and chapter faculty advisor of Chi Sigma Iota’s honor society chapter here at UI.  Janice

is often creative in the way she approaches GA assignments, offering new ways of doing things or

providing new resources or concepts. As the incoming president of Chi Sigma Iota’s Rho Upsilon chapter, Janice has numerous new ideas and innovations from which she thinks the chapter would benefit. From her work on the chapter’s newsletter to her pursuing the chapter’s own

Twitter serve, Janice gives us a new idea of what leadership may look like in a counseling profession infused

with technology."Janice Byrd has been a student in the PhD degree program in Counselor Education and Supervision since 2011.  She completed a Bachelor’s degree in English at Clemson University 2003 and a Master’s degree in Counselor Education at South Carolina State. 

Shannon Dyson has been a student in the PhD degree program in School Psychology since 2009.  She completed a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Southern Illinois University and a Master’s degree also at Southern Illinois University

Dr. Kit Gerken wrote: "Shannon Dyson is a fourth year student in the doctoral program in School Psychology at the University of Iowa.  She entered the program in the fall of

2009 with a MS degree in Clinical Child and School Psychology and one year of paid experience providing direct services to children and adolescents with behavioral/mental

health problems. Additionally, she had practicum experiences in a variety of setting such as  Head Start,

Madison County Detention Center, and the St. Louis Family Court. She has made excellent progress in every area of her graduate program. She has demonstrated an understanding

of persons who are different from her and exhibited a positive attitude about working with supervisors with

different skill levels and approaches to supervision.  She has demonstrated the maturity and responsibility necessary to

do well in “challenging” situations. She successfully defended her comprehensive portfolio on 10-29-12 and she will complete a one year internship and her dissertation by

August of 2014. Ms. Dyson’s presented a challenging case as part of her portfolio defense and it was very well done. "

Dr. Bonnie Sunstein wrote: "Scott participated in coordinating of Salsa Night Fundraising Activity for

LIFE Skills Inc. LIFE Skills was a non-profit organization that helps to promote the independent living skills for people with disabilities in the Johnson

County Area."

Scott Fratella has been a student in the MAT degree program in English Education since 2011.  He completed a Bachelor’s degree in English and Religion at The University of Iowa in 2005." 

Dr. Bruce Fehn wrote: "While making exceptional progress on her dissertation research agenda, Jeannette Gabriel has provided in-service

training to teachers associated with the University of Iowa’s Interdisciplinary Floods Institute. In addition, through the Opportunities in Education program, she has worked diligently with students of color who are considering application to the College's teacher education programs.

In conjunction with the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation, moreover, Ms. Gabriel has been working with elementary

and middle school teachers to teach young people how the concept “emancipation” remains a powerful theme in the contemporary United

States. Furthermore, she is collaborating with a PhD student in the History Department on a nationwide humanities project-- the public reading of Dr.

Martin Luther King’s landmark “Letter from the Birmingham Jail” on the 50th anniversary (April 16, 1963) of its first reading by Dr. King himself."

Dr. Gregory Hamot wrote: "Jeannette's contribution to the Interdisciplinary Flood Institute for Teachers is not only key to its success,

but she has also touched the lives of many teachers and countless students throughout the state via her work on this project.  Additionally,

Jeannette is a dedicated teacher of undergraduate students.  Her personal attention to every student in our "Opportunities in Education" course is the reason why many of these underrepresented students will enter the

teaching profession.  Jeannette has brought to UI a deep understanding of teacher professional development and undergraduate teaching that is

exemplary of the UI's mission to teach and serve. "

Jeannette Gabriel has been a student in the PhD degree program in Social Studies Education since 2012.  She completed a Bachelor’s degree in History  at University of Wisconsin in 1995 and a Master’s degree in Korean Studies at Rutgers.

Dr. Katrina Sanders wrote: "I’d like to recognize Gleidson Gouveia as an outstanding

graduate student. During fall 2012 Gleidson worked as the interim course supervisor for

Human Relations for the Classroom Teacher in my

absence. My faith in Gleidson's capabilities were well

warranted. In the words of one of his fellow teaching

assistants, Gleidson “worked hard at anticipating problems

that might possibly arise during the course of the

semester and conscientiously sought [their] input on

potential solutions…. He was extremely well-organized and

thoughtful in his approach, and very effective in his

communication style. ” Gleidson’s commitment to his

students and the Human Relations for the Classroom

Teacher course is unwavering. Those who are lucky enough to

have him as an instructor surely have an example of a

committed, fair educator. The Human Relations for the

Classroom Teacher course, EPLS, and the College truly have a valuable resource in

Gleidson Gouveia."

Gleidson Gouveia has been a student in the PhD degree program in Schools, Culture and Society and holds the William S Duffy Doctoral Fellowship in the EPLS department since 2010. He has a B.A. in Portuguese and English Languages and Literatures from Universidade Do Vale Do Itajai in Brazil and is a certified school teacher. Gleidson has a Master’s degree in English Language & Literature from The University of Northern Iowa, where he was awarded the UNI Graduate College Outstanding Master’s Thesis Award in 2009. 

Evans Ochola wrote: "In Recognition of Exceptional Graduate Students, I nominate Clint Huntrods with absolutely no

reservation. Clint Huntrods has been an exceptional student and leader among his peers. Clint has been a Teaching Assistant with us for three years. Clint teaches the course 07E: 102 Technology

in the Classroom and has been involved in a number of important technology projects in the College of Education."

Sue Cline added:  “Clint has been a valuable member of the Graduate Student Executive Committee for several years.  His

expertise and willingness to pitch in have been much appreciated."

Clint Huntrods has been a student in the PhD degree program in Higher Education and Student Affairs since 2009.  He completed a Bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies and a Master’s degree in Leisure Studies at The University of Iowa

Dr. Carol Smith wrote: "I would like to nominate Jaclyn

Inaclang. Jaclyn has demonstrated

excellent leadership skills to the

department and her program through her

involvement as President of the

Student Iowa School Counselor Association.

Under Jaclyn’s leadership this

organization has been revitalized and

rejuvenated with excellent guest

speakers, terrific philanthropic activities and opportunities for

students to get together. She had a clear vision for this

organization and had the dedication and

follow through to have dynamic and

successful year."

Jaclyn Inaclang has been a student in the Master’s degree program in School Counseling since 2010.  She completed a Bachelor’s degree in Educational Foundations at Iowa Wesleyan College in 2010, a Master's degree in School Counseling from the University of Iowa -2013 and a PhD in Counseling from the University of North Texas - STARTING summer 2013.Jaclyn was the Student Iowa School Counselor Association (SISCA) - President 2012-2013 & Vice President 2011-2012. She has been an active Member of several organizations: Chi Sigma Iota, Iowa School Counselor Association, American School Counselor Association, & Association for Play Therapy.

Dr. Stewart Ehly wrote: "I am forwarding my nomination of Gerald J. Jones for the Graduate Student Recognition week. Gerald has been my advisee since his arrival to UI and has been highly successful in acquiring clinical and research experience within the area of Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorders.  His experience  in school and hospital settings allowed him to develop expertise sufficient to earn an APA-approved internship in the Westchester (NY) Institute of Human Development and Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities associated with the New York Medical College.  His research on ADHD and related topics has produced 12 presentations at state, regional, and national conferences."  

Gerald Jones has been a student in the PhD degree program in School Psychology since 2009.  He completed a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Sant Thomas Aquinas College 2009

Dr. Susannah Wood wrote: "Christi Kreigh: From the time she stepped foot into the MA school counseling program, Christi brought all of her

skills and experiences in service and leadership. As a member of the Kappa Alpha Theta, she pursued service as a graduate student with the sorority as a scholarship advisor. As the school counseling representative to the Chi

Sigma Iota Rho Upsilon executive board as well as the co-newsletter

editor, Christi showed both vision and a self-motivated work style that

brought new columns and voices to the newsletter and to the board. She spoke for the MA students’ needs and

wants as their advocate and challenged the way CSI has

traditionally collaborated with other student groups. Christi shows a

seemingly endless supply of energy and original ideas. The question, “why can’t we….?” Seems to always come

up when she is around the table. I believe that spirit of initiative and

originality has also served her well in the commitment she has had working as a para-educator in the classroom providing problem-solving, academic

and career guidance. Christi graduates this year, but the students Christi will have in her capacity as a

new school counselor will be presented with a model of vibrant

leadership."

Christina Kreigh has been a student in the Master’s degree program in School Counseling since 2010.  She completed Bachelor’s degrees in Child Psychology and Spanish at University of Minnesota 2010.

Dr. Volker Thomas wrote: "In her 1st year in the Couple and Family Therapy Program, Tracie has done an excellent job in coordinating a research project entitled, “Filial Therapy with Pre-School aged children and their Families.” Additionally, Tracie served as a thoughtful and highly engaged student member of the Search Committee for a new Couple and Family Therapy faculty position."

Tracie Krum has been a student in the PhD degree program in Couple and Family Therapy since 2012. She completed a Bachelor’s degree in Film at University of California, Irvine in 2006 and a Master’s degree in Marital and Family Therapy at University of Oregon

Dr. Bonnie Sunstein wrote: "Rossina Liu, who has won The Graduate College's Summer Fellowship this year.  Her understanding of community heritage—and the principles

behind public engagement are clear in the remarkable work she’s done (almost

singlehandedly and without “course credit”) with veterans and homeless people in Iowa City’s Shelter House. She has organized and

presented two public readings at Prairie Lights, a colorful and compelling publication, and she was one of a few presenters at the

screening of the documentary film in October at the Englert, packed with UI students, faculty, and Iowa City’s most influential

residents.  This work comes from her strong commitment to community action. She is

currently working on her dissertation, teaching in the Iowa LINK program, and has already

published many articles for education, humanities journals and encyclopedias.  I am

very proud to be her advisor."

Rossina Zamora Liu has an MFA from the Nonfiction Writing Program at The University of Iowa (2007) and is recently a doctoral candidate in the Language, Literacy, and Culture Program. Her research and writing interests focus on folk and community literacy, storytelling performance and drafting processes of college and adult writers, and Asian American folk rituals and practices. She is the facilitator of the Community Stories Writing Workshop at Shelter House in Iowa City, a writing group she founded in fall 2010 where she works with local writers, artists, and veterans. Her most recent article, “The Things They Carried”: Unpacking Trauma Scripts inside a Community Writing Workshop (Counseling Psychology Quarterly special issue: “Through a Glass Darkly: Meaning-Making, Spiritual Transformation, and Posttraumatic Growth after Trauma, 2013), examines the meaning-making processes of two veterans who came through the shelter house. Other scholarly publications include two articles on math-writing partnerships (English Journal, 2012 and International Journal of the Humanities, 2012); 11 essays in the Encyclopedia of Asian Pacific American Folklore (Greenwood Press, 2010); a chapter in an anthology on Asian Pacific American folklore, “Of Flying Brooms and Sorcerers: Spell-castings, Love Potions, and Supernatural Plants” (forthcoming, 2013); and a chapter on the Vietnam War for a textbook on Vietnamese American history and culture (forthcoming, 2013). She completed an essay on reflexive research that is currently under review with UCLA’s Amerasia Journal: “The Sorceress of Westminster: The Nonfiction Writer and Ethnographic Researcher Positioning.” Creative work includes a radio essay, “Shrunken Twister” (Iowa Public Radio, 2004) and her essay, “Good People,” was a top finalist in the Glimmer Train literary journal Family Matters contest (2009). She is editor of a community stories journal, Of the Folk, published each spring. Awards include: Graduate Summer Fellowship (2013), Teaching and Learning Accomplishment Scholarship (November 2012), Hazel Prehm Summer Fellowship (June 2010), Howard Jones Award (May 2010), Outstanding Teaching Award (May 2007), Outstanding Minority Student Award (May 2004). Her professional meeting and conference presentations include the American Folklore Society Conference, Iowa Math and Science Education Partnership Day at the Capitol, National Teacher of English (NCTE), and the National Reading Conference. Rossina’s dissertation proposal examines the various stages of creative storytelling and writing performances of U.S. veterans at Shelter House.

Dr. Bonnie Sunstein wrote: "Combined Burla, Fratella,

Febrez.  Certainly, we ought to honor our Grad Tutors at the Collaborative Writing

Consultancy:  Puja Birla, Scott Fratella, and Luis Abner

Lopez-Febres.  Puja and Scott are in the T&L MAT program,

and Luis is in the MA in English Education.  They are tireless and highly organized

advocates for all COE graduate students doing

many kinds of writing, from dissertations and

comprehensive exam preparation to professional articles to class exercises.  They meet each student's individual needs as they

consult, and follow the our philosophy at the CWC,

working collaboratively with all students to help them

improve their overall plans and content of their papers, offer ideas for developing

their work, and make follow-up appointments. This year, we have had 100% of our time filled with graduate

student writers."

Luis Lopez-Febres has been a student in the Master’s degree program in English Education since 2011.  He completed a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education at University of Puerto Rico in 2009. He is passionate about teaching languages and writing, both in his native Spanish and English. After receiving his teaching certification, he worked for two years in public schools in Puerto Rico. At the University of Iowa, he has also taught Spanish courses at the Division of World Languages, Literatures, and Cultures

Dr. Nancy Langguth wrote: "Amy is to be commended for the dedicated student leader she continues to be for the ISEA Student Program. Amy not only has contributed to the organization’s semester visioning session, she has been involved in nearly every initiative undertaken by the organization since becoming a member; contributing to planning for the Fall Cookout, participating in the organization’s entry in the UI Homecoming Parade, serving as a Student Host for the CoE Homecoming Alumni Event, assisting with the Peace Party Initiative at the Iowa Children’s Museum, and spearheading an ISEA Student Program apparel order (from design to delivery). The ISEA Student Program is active in the College and community, but only because of student leaders like Amy who not only ”join,” but who choose to demonstrate the leadership traits they will exhibit as educators; Amy is such a student leader in every sense of the word."

Amy Marling has been a student in the MAT degree program in Science Education since 2012.  She completed a bachelors degree in Biology at University of Northern Iowa in 2011.I graduated in Biology- Honors Research from UNI with Suma Cum Laude standing. Undergraduate Research Thesis: Effect of Egg-Incubation Temperature on Growth and Selected Temperature of “Apalone Spinifera”, the Spiny Softshell Turtle.

Dr. Bonnie Sunstein wrote: "Amie

Ohlmann, who's been the recipient of the

Iowa Testing Fellowship, and who

has also done remarkable

community work on her own in Iowa City and the surrounding

area."

Amie Ohlmann has been a student in the PhD degree program in Language, Literacy and Culture since 2009 and is also completing the Master’s degree program in Educational Leadership.  She completed a Bachelor’s degree in Speech at University of Nebraska - Lincoln in 1997 and an Master’s degree in Writing at Eastern Michigan University.

Dr. Nancy Langguth wrote: "Morgan is a dedicated student leader, as demonstrated by her leadership in organizing and carrying out the Fall ISEA Student Program cookout, as well as through her active participation in the ISEA Student Program’s assistance with the Peace Party Initiative at the Iowa Children’s Museum. Morgan is an organizer extraordinaire who thinks of everything when carrying out a task . . . from planning, to purchasing, to cleaning up . . . she’s on it! Morgan is an active member in the ISEA Student Program, indicative of the leadership she will bring to the school and community in which she teaches."

Morgan Olson has been a student in the MAT degree program in Science Education since 2012.  She completed a bachelor or science degree in Psychology at Iowa State University in 2010 and a bachelor of science degree in Science Education at The University of Iowa

Dr. Ann Santos wrote: "I would like to recommend my advisee, Amanda Osborn, for the

Graduate Student Recognition to be

displayed in May.    Amanda is inquisitive,

intelligent, and a very hard worker.  Her willingness to take on challenges

has led her to experience many

different professional

endeavors both on campus and in the

community.  Amanda has been a

joy to advise."

Amanda Osborn has been a student in the PhD degree program in School Psychology since 2009.  She completed a bachelor degree in Psychology at Iowa State University in 2007 and a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology at University of Northern Iowa

Dr. Susannah Wood wrote: "Sangmin is probably best known for her modesty and quiet demeanor. What many

people don’t see is her sparkling intelligence and

incredible work ethic. As a GA in the RCE Department and a doctoral student in Counselor

Education & Supervision, Sangmin has proven that there are few challenges

she’s unwilling to face or new things she’ll try. As a student

coming from South Korea, there’s a lot to adjust to both

in terms of cultural adaptation and adaptation to a new and rigorous program.

 In only her first year Sangmin has volunteered as a conference worker at the

American Counseling Association and is in-coming secretary-elect for the Rho Upsilon chapter Chi Sigma

Iota counseling honor society. Sangmin is detailed-oriented and always dependable. She leaves the impression service

can be done without a spotlight but always with a

cheerful attitude."  

Sangmin Park has been a student in the PhD degree program in Counselor Education and Supervision since 2012.  She completed a bachelor degree in Education at Seoul National University 2007 and then a master’s degree in Counselor Education at Seoul National University.

Dr. Debora Liddell wrote: "Kira Pasquesi is an exceptional

contributor to our HESA learning community.  A second-year Ph.D.

student, she serves as both a research assistant and program

assistant with the HESA program. As Program Assistant, she directs our

recruitment and application processes for prospective students.  She is highly regarded as a caring mentor to our master’s students.  

She always gives 150% in and outside the classroom and we are

lucky to have her in our community."

Kira Pasquesi has been a student in the PhD degree program in Higher Education and Student Affairs since 2011.  She completed a bachelor degree in Elementary Education at University of Iowa in 2005 and a master’s degree in College Student Personnel at Miami University in Ohio.

Dr. Susannah Wood wrote: "I continue to be amazed by Meredith’s dynamic energy. As a doctoral student in

Counselor Education & Supervision, she has

quite a few demands on her time. Not only does she dedicate the time to creating quality products for classes, she also has

taken the time to become well rounded in research and service. In the past two years she’s

worked as a research assistant working with

veterans with traumatic brain injuries and PTSD

as well as an on-call crisis counselor.

Whatever she does, no matter what the

challenge, Meredith stands out with her

positive attitude and the consistent belief that “I can do this.” She serves as an inspiration to many with her hard work and

dedication to the counseling profession."

Meredith Rausch has been a student in the PhD degree program in Counselor Education and Supervision since 2011.  She completed a bachelor degree in Speech at University of Wisconsin - Whitewater in 2001 and a master’s degree in Counselor Education at University of Wisconsin - Whitewater. She also holds a Certificate from The Second City in Chicago, IL in 2004.

Dr. Debora Liddell wrote: "Beth Ripperger is a second-year student in the Higher Education & Student Affairs M.A. Program.  A first-generation college student, Beth

has “leaned into” the rigorous expectations of the program and has excelled academically.  In her

assistantship with Health Iowa, she oversees the Health Ninja program to help cultivate healthy peer behaviors.  A caring and ethical professional, Beth always puts her

best work forward." 

Beth Ripperger has been a student in the Master’s degree program in Higher Education and Student Affairs since 2011.  She completed a bachelor degree in Psychology at Mount Mercy University in 2011

Dr. John Northup wrote: "Actually I have done

this often recently. As a student he has an excellent GPA. As a practicum student

he has excelled in many different sites, in a variety of

school and clinical practicums. He is currently

the "lead" student in a Pediatrics clinic at UIHC. He began working in the clinics as an undergraduate. The only student I have ever

known to do this. His research is excellent.

Typically based on "basic" research that few students

have ever even read. I could (and have) go on much longer. I honor Patrick."Patrick Romani has been a student in the PhD degree

program in School Psychology since 2008.  He completed a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at The University of Iowa in 2008.

Dr. Vilia Tarvydas wrote: “I want to nominate my doctoral advisee, Leslie Santos for the Graduate Student Recognition distinction this year.  Leslie has been a dynamo of service leadership during her

entire tenure in the doctoral program. Without recognition or reward, she has been constantly involved in numerous and important activities that are above and beyond any of her classwork, work or program

requirements.  She has set a very high standard of generosity and is the first to volunteer or help out no matter what the task or need may be.  She has role modeled the kind of selfless commitment to the good

of others in our communities that sets a high ethical standard for her peers and professionals in the community.  The diversity, consistency of service and quality of her efforts is quite remarkable.  She does

not call attention to these activities, but over time it is clear that she has become the trusted and admired face of our Rehabilitation Counselor Education Program and our Department in many

communities.  A partial list of her recent volunteer activities would include: Participated in coordinating of Salsa Night Fundraising Activity for LIFE Skills Inc. LIFE Skills was a non-profit organization that helps to promote the independent living skills for people with disabilities in the Johnson County Area/As a volunteer, she lead a psycho educational substance abuse group in Shelter House's Fairweather Lodge/She did volunteer work as an interpreter for the Latino Community translating interviews with the medical staff and documents, and offered a psycho educational group in Spanish for the UI Mobile Clinic “West Liberty.” She continues working with them/She participated in Project HOPE as a volunteer/This project is a career education program designed to connect minority and low socioeconomic middle school students to the health science professions early in their education./She participates in the interview process for a potential incoming student to the REACH Program.  The REACH Program is a two-year, transition certificate program for students with multiple intellectual, cognitive, and learning disabilities.  She also has made monetary donations to these institutions on a regular basis and also assist these groups to raise money in different activities (this is quite remarkable for a doctoral student with limited financial means): UNICEF that provides long-term humanitarian and developmental assistance to children and mothers in developing countries RICKY MARTIN FOUNDATION that the mission to advocate for the well-being of children around the world. Its primary project is the People for Children project, which aims to eliminate child trafficking. I am volunteer for this organization and I participate in different on-line activities to help them to raise money.MARYKNOLL LAY MISSIONERS is a Catholic organization that works in poor communities in Africa, Asia and the Americas, responding to basic needs and helping to create a more just and compassionate world.  The donations support the missionary work.NAMI-National Alliance on Mental Illness, is the nation’s leading grassroots, self-help, education, support and advocacy organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness.   In terms of professionally-related extracurricular activities, Leslie also has given of her time in the following professional service activities:  2010 -2013- National Student Representative- The National Council on Rehabilitation Education, Fresno, CA  (She continues to assist the Executive Director of this organization with conference programs and arrangements even though her term has expired.)2010-2011 -Secretary- The University of Iowa American Rehabilitation Counseling Association2010-2011 – Peer Mentor- I-fellows Peer Mentor Program, College of Education.  I think Leslie is an exceptional candidate for this extra recognition since she does so much, so quietly for so many.”

Leslie Santos has been a student in the PhD degree program in Rehabilitation Counselor Education since 2009.  She completed a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at University of Puerto Rico in 2001 and a Master’s degree also at University of Puerto Rico

Dr. Nancy Langguth wrote: "Carl single-handedly carried out the spring membership drive for the ISEA Student Program. As a result of the presentations he made in the Elementary Education and Secondary Education Orientation classes, there currently are over 40 members in the student-led organization. Of note is how Carl stepped up to the plate to take on this responsibility having only become a member himself during the Fall ’12 semester . . . that’s an active member, and clearly an indicator of the teacher leader Carl will be."

Carl Soderlund has been a student in the MAT degree program in Science Education since 2012.  He completed a bachelor’s degree in Physics at Drake University  in 1994 and an MBA in Information Systems at Iowa State University.

Dr. Volker Thomas wrote: "In his 1st year in the Couple and Family Therapy Program, Frank has

made an outstanding contribution to the field as Editorial Assistant of the Journal of Couple and

Relationship Therapy."

Frank Sories has been a student in the PhD degree program in Couple and Family Therapy since 2012.  He completed a Bachelor’s degree in Drama at University of California, Irvine in 1979 and a Master’s degree in Counselor Education at Northeastern Illinois University

Dr. Christopher Morphew wrote the following:  “Teniell is an extraordinary student.  She is chock full of intellectual curiosity, thoughtful, and always eager to take on the next task.  She does high quality work, on-time, and under budget. Teniell is finishing her second year in the program, but has already published multiple articles (in top-tier journals), served as a TA for several courses, and is well on her way to picking up an extra MA in sociology.  We expect big things out of Teniell.”

Teniell Trolian has been a student in the PhD degree program in Higher Education and Student Affairs since 2011.  She completed a bachelor’s degree in Sociology at Ohio State University  in 2001 and a Master’s degree in Student Personnel at Bowling Green State University.

Wayne Kintz wrote: "Tina is a bright and shining

example of how a graduate assistant can step up and

do things well beyond what we typically assume they are able to do.  We have used Tina in a front line technical support role ranging from finding solutions to obscure

application related issues to managing a gaggle of

unruly iPads.  Tina has done all these duties with an

incredibly positive attitude and has been able to significantly assist the Education Technology

Center in supporting the IT needs of the entire college. 

Nominating Tina for this award seems like excellent

way to recognize her significant talents as well as her ability to get along with

everyone."

Sue Cline added:   “Tina has served on the Graduate Student Executive Committee since her entrance at The University of Iowa.  Her bubbly, happy, sincere personality has been a wonderful addition to our group!  I remember my first conversation with her when she said that if I needed anything she was my go-to girl!” 

Tina Vo was recently admitted to the PhD degree program in Science Education and has been working on her Master’s degree in Science Education since 2010.  She completed a Bachelor’s degree in Middle School Education at Illinois State University in 2007

Dr. Debora Liddell wrote: "Alex Wenger is a second-year Master’s student in the Higher

Education & Student Affairs Program.  A quiet leader in the

community, she leads by example: she is an ethical,

engaged, and caring professional.  In her

assistantship with the Belin – Blank Center, Alex works

closely with underrepresented undergraduates to help create

a sense of place." 

Alex Leilani Wenger has been a student in the Master’s degree program in Higher Education and Student Affairs since 2011. She completed a bachelor degree in Psychology at The University of Iowa in 2011. As a second-year M.A. student, Alex presented "A newer generation: Working with diverse Millennial college students" at the Way Up Conference for women leaders in Iowa higher education where she was also named a Carol Rocklin Kay Memorial Scholar. She won the Iowa Student Personnel Association Graduate Student Case Study Competition with colleague and teammate Elizabeth Bledsoe, and was named an ISPA Student Scholar two consecutive years. In addition to her assistantship at the Belin-Blank Center, Alex completed a practicum with the Iowa Biosciences Advantage, as well as an internship and practicum with First Year Experience and the Honors Program at St. Ambrose University. After completing her degree this spring, Alex will move home to the Quad Cities where she will begin life as a new student affairs professional.