Honors Elections, November 2016

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Student Director

Kaitlyn Doyle

Hello everyone, my name is Kaitlyn Doyle and I am running for the position of Student Director of the Honors Program. I would like to be director because the honors program has been like a second family to me at Stockton. I met some of my closest friends through this program and my hope is to unite the program again the way it was when I was a freshman. As for experience, I’ve been on the honors executive board for two years as the Fundraising & Finance director and am currently the Vice President of Stockton’s Quidditch team. As someone that has been on, and led, executive boards I know how to effectively run an organization and work well with others. Also, I constantly check my email and would be very open to hearing your opinions and ideas for the program. Hopefully I will be given the opportunity to be your fearless leader for the next year!

Student Assistant Director

Francesca DeVito

Good evening fellow honerds,

This year I am running for Assistant Director of the Honors Executive Board. For the past year, I have been on the Honors Executive Board as a Co-Director of Fundraising and Finance and I believe Kate and I have done a great job.

However, I think it is time for us to move on to being Director and Assistant Director of the Honors Executive Board. We just need your vote to get there. I promise together we will keep this Honors Program running strong.

Millie shah

Good afternoon. “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way,” John C. Maxwell. My name is Millie Shah and I’m running to be YOUR future Student Assistant Director. Now, I don’t mean to bore you with a list of given tasks and how I’ll accomplish them. But I’d rather talk to you about how I can contribute to this program. As former Vice President of both Interact Club and Medical Explorers in high school, I am familiar with the responsibilities of this position. Furthermore, I am easily reachable through any form of social media. If anyone ever has any questions or concerns, I will try my best to get back to you within the hour or so. But if we are in person, I am easily approachable; don’t be afraid to talk to me! I’m friendly, I promise. If necessary, I am fairly proficient in computer programs such as Microsoft and Google-based services. Now, this club is all about giving back to society through different projects and volunteering opportunities as well as extending our arms to prospective Honors students. To extend on this concept, I advise putting in a suggestion box because your opinion counts! Not only that, but I’d also be working with the Student Director and cabinet members for more projects and chances to improve recruitment. The more the better! I’d like to be able to add on to the great ideas of this club and something different would be a school dance which would help to raise money for our local charities. A simple stand outside of Shoprite/ local grocery store could work just as greatly. In high school, my lacrosse team worked with the Shoprite idea and it proved to be very effective. With my past experience and current experience as part of the E-Board for Commuters-On-The-Go, I will able to offer a myriad of opportunities, just like these. To ensure you, I will be able to contribute a good majority of my time to this club. Under the leadership of me and of the wonderful officers I could be working with, the Honors Program can continue to remain intact and organized. So, together, let’s create a great experience. Overall, my election will contribute greatly to the Honors Program, NOT the other way around. Vote for me as your future Student Assistant Director. Thank you.

Events Director(s)

Lexi Bruno and Sean Murphy

Hey everyone! My name is Lexi Bruno, I’m currently a freshman psychology major with a concentration in forensic psychology and a minor in art. I am running alongside Sean Murphy for the position of Events Coordinator. I am looking to get more involved within the Stockton community. Besides being in the honors program, I am a member of circle K, and recently, SET. Being members of SET, Sean and I are experienced in organizing events. I was also the director of events in my high school’s National Honor Society and frequently I helped to arrange a multitude of functions around my town. Also Sean and I have some dope music to offer for all occasions.

Hi! My name is Sean Murphy and I am going to be running for Events Coordinator with Lexi Bruno (That’s me and her car since we don’t take good pictures together). I am a Health Science major in the Master’s Degree Physician’s Assistant program. Along with the Honors program, I am also involved in gaming club, billiards club, and SET (Stockton Entertainment Team). I want to get involved and I think this is a great position for me. I previously ran for an executive board position for gaming club. As members of SET Lexi and I have experience preparing, running, and cleaning up events. We will be able to incorporate our knowledge and connections from SET to run well organized, entertaining events.

AMANDA ROMEISER and Jessica Klein

Hello, my name is Amanda Romeiser, and I am currently a freshman running to be your Co- Events Coordinator with Jess. At Stockton, I am on the Quidditch team, and I am a member of Circle K. A lot of my friends on my Quidditch team, who are current Honors E-board officers, encouraged me to run for an E-board position, indicating that it was a great way to get involved. I have a lot of experience serving in different clubs and organizations in high school. I was a class officer, Treasurer of the Student Government, the Communications Chairperson of our MiniTHON Committee, captain of my varsity soccer team, and I was in the Do Something Club, Scholastic Scrimmage, and Diversity Tolerance and Awareness Club, which all gave me experience coordinating and running different fundraisers and events. If we are elected, Jess and I will individually bring our past experiences together to form one events coordinating team. We will work closely with the other e-board officers, additionally listening to your ideas, to put on some fun, and probably slightly nerdy, events. Thank you for consideration!

My name is Jessica Klein, and I am running for the Co-Events Coordinator position with Amanda. I am a freshman environmental science major who is eager to get more involved in the Honor’s Program. In high school, I was the president of Choir and the secretary of History Club, and it was a point of pride to be able to take the reins of leadership in the clubs I loved. I want to do that here at Stockton as well. So far I have joined the all-female acapella group on campus, Stockata, but I want to be a more active member of the Honor’s community. As the Co-Events Coordinator, I would make sure to take everyone’s ideas into consideration and work hard with Amanda and the other E-Board members to make everyone’s ideas a reality. I know that Amanda and I will bring a lot of creativity, energy, enthusiasm, and know-how to the position. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Maggie Simek

How’s it hanging? My name is Margaret and I’m here to run for events coordinator! I’m a junior that just transferred in to Stockton, and so far I’m loving it— poor cellphone coverage and all! I whole heartedly believe that the key to any club is camaraderie and togetherness. If a voluntary organization isn’t fun or at the very least doesn’t make you feel like an outsider, what’s even the point? I want to help make Honors into something that’s more than a club you drag yourself to for free pizza and a footnote on a resume. Of course, I’m not just some kid off the street and I have experience that includes but is not limited to being the President of my old college’s Gay Straight Alliance and an active member of the Student Pathways Leadership Institute. Additionally, I am fresh off an internship with Spencer’s Gifts corporate and I saw firsthand what a culture of fun and excitement can do for an organization. And if you remember from my campaign speech, I can make a killer Spotify playlist! Cheers and thank you!

Public Outreach Director

Jillian Umali

Hi! My name is Jillian Umali, and I am currently a Freshman running for the position of Public Outreach Director. Last year, I was the Communications Officer in my high school’s JROTC program, so I have experience in collaborating with others to accomplish a task. Furthermore, I have already helped table at a recent Open House where I interacted with several students and parents interested in what the Honors Program has to offer. My main strengths include dedication and passion, which are qualities that drive me to inspire others in reaching their potentials. This proves that I am willing to go above and beyond what is expected so that I can become a successful Public Outreach Director. If I am elected, I will apply this knowledge to motivate prospective Honors students to join our welcoming community. Although this is only my first semester here at Stockton, my participation thus far will encourage future students that being a member of Stockton University’s Honors Program is a decision they will not regret.

NANCY WRAGA

Hello! My name is Nancy Wraga, and I’m a junior in the Honors Program, majoring in Health Science. I am running for Director of Outreach for my third academic year. I hope to serve as Director of Outreach again in order to continue contributing to the honors program and to help recruit new honors students! I look forward to working with all of you in some way or another, and thanks in advance for considering me!

Director of Community Service

Andrew Cross

Hello, I am Andy Jay Cross, a sophomore Sustainability major. In my freshman year at Stockton, I was actively involved with Stockton
Sustainability Trust and SAVE (Stockton Action Volunteers for the Environment) in several on-campus initiatives and clean-up projects.
This semester, I have become involved in the Stockton chapter for Books Without Borders, and assisted them on Make A Difference Day. I am running for the e-board position of Director of Community Service in order to make a difference in the community. Hopefully, I would be able to recruit not just Honors students, but all Stockton students, to become involved with events and activities designed to make the world a better place. In particular, I intend on doing fundraisers for several charities and projects, such as an event to benefit a social development project in developing nations. Later on in the semester, I was thinking of teaming up with SAVE jointly to conduct their annual cleanup of the nearby Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. Such an event would provide Honors students with an excellent way to get service hours under their belts.Thanks for your support and if elected, I hope that together we can improve the vitality of the world community.

Kate Volpe

Hi, my name is Kate Volpe, and I am the current director of community service. I am running for re-election because I am truly passionate about this position, and have given it my all over the past twelve months. My number one goal as Director of Community Service is to make it as easy as possible for you to get involved: I get the word out to everyone about service projects and dialogues; I’ve been certified to lead reflection sessions; and I have organized two major Honors service projects: Jungle Jam, which is held in April to buy rainforest acreage in Costa Rica, and the Run Run Rudolph Run 5k. As Honors begins to expand and grow, I want to be here to raise the bar for service in the program, while also making it as easy and accessible as possible for you all to take part. Please vote for me, Kate Volpe, so that I can continue to work with you all to give back to our community.

Peer Mentoring Director

ZEAL KAMDAR

Hello my name is Zeal Kamdar and I am running for Peer Mentoring Director. Since I already have the experience of being in this position I feel like I can add a lot of value to my position and go above and beyond in fulfilling all my responsibilities. I remember how important of an impact my mentor had on me as an incoming freshmen. Students relate to our upperclassmen at a level that we can’t find with professors or parents. I believe I have the leadership skills and experience to make a new environment feel comfortable for all of the freshmen. I want to show the prospective students that the honors program is all about comradery and giving back. The fellowship among honors students is key to the success of the honors program. As the peer mentor director I will ensure that this fellowship will be shared not only among people in the same year, but also among people of different years.

Fundraising and Finance Director

Yoni Pier

Hi everyone, my name’s Yoni (Jonathan) and I’m a freshman here at Stockton University. I’m the one on the right.

I’m a dual major in the MBA program with a focus in finance and I plan to go to law school and practice corporate law professionally. I play soccer and was a member of my high school’s national honors society program. The Honors program’s finances are safe in my hands.

DAN TIDCOMBE

Hi, I’m Dan and I’m a freshman here at Stockton University. I am a Literature major with a concentration in Creative Writing. After college I plan to continue writing and pursuing other creative endeavors. I want to join the honors program E-Board because I want to get more involved in helping the program and I want to be able to give back to the students and faculty members who work hard in the program

Class of 2018 Representative

Justine Centner

Hello Class of 2018! I am a sophomore here at Stockton, however I will be graduating a year early! A little about me.. I am a health science major with a concentration in Communication Disorders. Over at Rowan I was hall council president my freshman year, so students came to me with any issues and I was able to sort them out to the best of my abilities. I am currently the K-Family Relations Chair for Circle K, which is an amazing organization that offers a lot of volunteer opportunities. I would love to be Class Rep to help the needs of my fellow classmates and be able to communicate any problems or resolve any questions. I have been successful with this in the past and hope to be able to have this type of position again as your class representative!

Class of 2019 Representative

Nia Pitts

Hello! My name is Nia Pitts and I am a sophomore Theatre major with a concentration in Production and Design. I am very excited to be running for the position of Class Rep of 2019. I am very good with communication and friendly, and I hope to help make the Honors experience the best it can be for everyone.

Class of 2020 Representative

Kate DohertY

Hello! My name is Kate Doherty. I am a freshman Sustainability major with a concentration in Energy. I am running to be your Class of 2020 Representative. My previous leadership experience includes being president of the National Honors Society chapter at my high school this past year, cooperating with other school organizations to fundraise for the Children’s Specialized Hospital in Ocean County. As president, I was responsible for projecting my peers’ concerns and ideas to our advisor and helping to make them become a reality. I am committed to carrying out the same responsibilities as the Class of 2020 Representative in the Honors Program here at Stockton. As freshmen, it is our responsibility to get involved in our Honors Program to set the stage for our next four years. Vote for me as 2020 Representative and I will make sure our ideas count, our concerns are understood, and our involvement in Honors is remarkable.

Honors Elections 2013

Posted on November 15, 2013 by Lisa Rosner

Student Director

SAGE MITCHELL

Becoming the Honors Student Director would be an excellent way for me to give back to a program that has been a part of me since my first day of coming to Stockton. Through my leadership involvement in campus clubs such as Water Watch, Quidditch, and Fencing, I have had numerous opportunities to learn how to organize, manage, and promote club activities and programs. I am capable of taking on the responsibilities of the Student Director because I care about this program and about my fellow students. I hope to bring new events, projects, and idea to the program and to work with the rest of the executive board to help the Honors Program continues to run smoothly and with the same family atmosphere it has always had.

Student Assistant Director

MARY-KATE FITZPATRICK

Hello, my name is Mary-Kate Fitzpatrick. I am currently a Junior in the program. I have been on the Executive Board for the past year as a the Junior Class Representative. I will be running for Assistant Student Director this year. I want to help the program become a more Connected community and introduce new ideas. Since I have been part of the eBoard for the past year I have experience in how things are planned and completed for the program. It would a great opportunity to be elected as the 2014 Assistant Student Director.

Events Director

JESSA HERNANDEZ

Hello, my name is Jessa Hernandez, I am a junior biology major and I am running for the position of director of events. I am organized, able to plan out events, and am willing to create and plan fun times. Currently I am the co-director of events and I would like to now be the director of events. I, with the help of my other co-director, have planned out the barbeque in the spring, two semesters of Pizza and Pong, scatterball, and in the future the holiday party. Now that I have gotten my feet wet in this position, I believe that this new election year I can make the events even better. At every honors event I have been doing some research to see how things are going and have been writing down the steps on how to plan these events and now that I have one year under my belt, I think that this upcoming year can be even better. I have had numerous learning experiences with event planning including honors, RHA, and SET, and I am ready to apply what I’ve learned to this position as well. I wanted to run for this position because I believe I can put a new spin on the position by keeping the events upbeat and advertising the events more throughout our honors community. So I hope you vote for who you think is best for the position, whether that is me or my opponents. Thank you for your consideration and I hope you vote for me.

Public Outreach Co-Directors

SIENA STUCKI

I’m Siena Stucki and I am running for the Outreach Position for the Honors Executive Board. I know as part of the Outreach Position, I would need to advertise the program possibly at Open Houses to perspective freshmen. I would love to stand in front of potential incoming students and tell them of the benefits of the Honors Program. Although I may be only a freshman, the Honors Program has already done so much for me that I would love to share with others. I believe I would also be good for the job because I enjoy being creative and would love to craft different posters and bookmarks to get the word out about the Honors Program. I was the sole photographer for my middle school paper and enjoy taking photos of events which could be used for such posters. The Honors Program is where I have met some of the best and most dedicated people at Stockton. Given the chance, I would be honored to advertise the hard working students of this program as the Honors Executive Board’s Outreach Representative.

NICOLE VANCIL

Hello all. My name is Nikki Vancil and I am running for the Director of Outreach position. I feel I am qualified to be the Director of Outreach because I have been in a position of leadership since my junior year of High School. I was also the Director of Outreach the last year and was successfully able to re-create the position and what it entails. As the Director of Outreach you have to be able to work with all different types of people who are interested in joining not only this program but the college. You also have to be creative as a big part of this job is creating the flyers, bookmarks, posters and year book ads for this program. As the Director of Outreach I will continue to be an asset to the growing honors program.

Community Service Director

MCKENZIE LILLIA

Hello! My name is McKenzie Lillia and I am a junior running for the position of Director of Community Service. Our time in college is a time when we each find our passion. For me, I have found that my passion is helping others. I have been an avid member of Stockton Circle K since my freshman year. Circle K lives by the motto “Live to Serve, Love to Serve.” I love to serve, and I believe becoming Director of Community Service will allow me to live to serve. I have a passion for service and I would like to instill that passion in other honors students as Director of Service. I have found that many view the service-learning requirement as solely a requirement. I want my fellow peers to get excited about doing service! I want to offer a different service project every month; hence everyone can find a service project that suits his or her interests. I would also like to get us involved in smaller scale volunteering efforts that do not necessarily count as service projects but get us out into the community, making a difference! I also believe that I have the personality and skills that make me well qualified for this position. I am an extremely hard worker, I am open-minded and willing to listen to others, and I am passionate in whatever tasks I undertake. The Honors Program has done so much for me in my time at Stockton, and now I would like to give back as Director of Community Service.

Peer Mentoring Co-Directors

Allison Stiles

Hello. My name is Allison Stiles and I am running for the Peer Mentoring position. I believe I can excel in this position for several reasons. One: I am extremely organized, so no confusion will arise. Two: I check my email just about every hour, so if anyone needs a response from me fast, I can get back to them as soon as possible. Three: I have leadership experience from several clubs including 4-H and the colorguard at my high school. Finally, I am a researcher, so anything that needs looking up like majors and programs, I can do it. I like knowing things and helping people when they need someone. This makes me able to perform my duties as the Peer Mentoring advisor. I will match everyone up to the best of my abilities, and I will run the Scholars day smoothly. Please vote for me, and I will not let anyone down.

Kimia Kheirkhah

Hi! My name is Kimia, I am a Junior and I am running for the position of peer-mentoring. Those of you who know me, know me as this loud, crazy outgoing person, which is fine because I am. In fact, that is the reason why I feel like I would be the best choice for this position. I’ll get the freshmen’s attention and make them fall in love with us, because we are worth falling in love with. I love making new friends and meeting new people. I feel like meeting the incoming freshmen is a great honor and responsibility since we’re basically making a first impression on them and those matter! I will do everything I can to make that first impression both memorable and great. I want to be the mother hen to all the incoming kittens as GT says…and I know hens and kittens don’t go well together, but still! I think my outgoing personality will create a friendly, warm and open environment where the incoming students will feel at ease to meet strangers, break the ice and leave with friends. The most important thing to me is making sure there is a strong connection, not just between the mentor and the mentee, but between everyone in the honors program. Even though I had an amazing mentor, I have learned countless more things from all the honors upper classmen in the Honors Program and I would like the incoming freshman to feel like everyone in the honors program can help them. This is because we each have our own specialty, interest, and something unique to offer; no one person can know everything. I hope you guys support my vision for the incoming freshman and my goals. A vote for me is a vote for a connected and united Honors Program.

Fundraising and Finance Co-Directors

Shannon Bley

Hello everyone, my name is Shannon Bley, and I am a freshman running to be the Director of Fundraising and Financing on the honors board. To be honest, when I first applied to the honors program and was accepted, I wasn’t sure if I would belong here, and had no idea what to expect. I certainly did not expect to be Irish dancing at the honors weekend in June. However, it was at that moment, when we were all flailing about and trying to figure out the dance steps, that I knew the honors program was right for me. Meeting all these friendly honors students made me want to be more involved in the program. I decided that running for this position on the honors board would be the best way to do that. As Director of Fundraising and Financing, I would plan numerous fundraisers throughout the semester so that we can raise money for the honors program and do fun activities, such as going on exciting field trips. I would keep an accurate record of finances within the honors program and aim to plan enjoyable fundraising activities to raise money for the program, more than the usual bake sale and car wash. For example, we could have a pie throwing contest, or sell strips of duct tape to tape a volunteer to the wall. In the past, I have served as the chairman of community service for my FFA chapter and as treasurer in my scuba diving venture crew. I am always coming up with new ideas (though some of them may be a bit outlandish) and am always happy to help others whenever they need it! Thank you!

Kristine Duong

My name is Kristine Duong and I am a freshman Biology major. I would like to be involved in this spectacular society that most call the honors program, but what I have come to call home. Being involved in activities is my passion and I would like to be active in the honors program by being part of the honors outreach position. I have really come to love the honors program and must say, besides making the decision to enroll at Stockton, it is one of my best decisions. I would love to have the opportunity to express all the great things about honors and possibly influence other students to apply for the program. I do have prior experience when it comes to fundraising for a club or a cause. One of the events that I have organized was the very first cupcake wars I my high school. We got a lot of participants and had the whole school involved in the viewing and purchasing of them. We were able to raise more than two hundred dollars and brought the students together as a community. I have a lot of ideas for fundraising and am really excited to contribute them to the honors program. In the past I have also held many treasurer positions and have been well trusted with money. I hope to become a Director of funds and fundraising.

Junior Class Representative

STEPHANIE SHEEHAN

Hi Honors Students, my name is Stephanie Sheehan and I am running for Junior Class Representative. I first found out about Stockton’s Honors Program on Stockton’s website. I was captivated by the program due to the challenge, encouragement, warm atmosphere, and fun photos on the website. I was excited to not only challenge myself but to be a part of what is described as the Honors experience. I am finding out exactly what that experience entails. The Honors program is much more than just a few extra requirements, the program stimulates and challenges students to encompass their full potential with the complete support of the Honors family. As Class Representative I hope to portray to students, faculty, the community, as well as prospective students how valuable the Honors Program is.

Sophomore Class Representative

JAKE LIPMAN

Hello, my name is Jake Lipman and I will be running for the class of 2016 Representative. I hope to continue the admirable job that Matthew Zivi has done this past year and represent the class of 2016’s interests to the fullest. I believe I possess the qualities to be a good class rep, as I am responsible, level headed and try to listen to everyone’s opinions. I believe that these assets I bring to the table are valuable for the Honors E-board.

Freshman Class Co-Representatives

Tori Novack

My name is Tori Novack, and I am running for Class of 2017 Rep for the 2014 school year. I belonged to the National Honor Society in high school where I was the chairperson for the Go Green campaign as well as the web master for the organization. Even though I have only been in college for two months, I have already gained a leadership position in the Stockton Christian Fellowship and have joined the worship team on Tuesday night meetings. Also, I will am representing the club on the Campus Religious Council. I am involved in Ratio Christi and look to join more clubs as the year progresses and as my schedule permits. I would like to represent the Class of 2017 because I feel I am very approachable and open to ideas. Speaking for my class rather than for myself will always be my priority, and if given the chance, I promise not to disappoint. I have attended the meetings thus far and plan to continue attending the meetings. Vote Tori Novack for Class of 2017 Rep!

Anthony Thawley

Hello fellow Stockton Honors students, my name is Anthony Thawley, and I would like to be your Class of 2017 representative. Is your Stockton Honors Program experience everything you thought it would be? Do you have ideas for change or improvement to the program? Well, I want to be your source to bring these ideas to the Honors Executive Board; I want to be your Class of 2017 Representative – your voice. I want to ensure that the Honors Program experience at Stockton is everything we want it to be. The Executive Board will hear our concerns because as your Class Representative I will be there to push. I will not relent until our Honors experience is all that we hoped it would be. I am asking for your vote for Class Representative because I want to ensure that the Class of 2017 is a vital part in the Honors Program. Let the 2017 voice be heard!

Honors Elections, November 2015

Posted on November 12, 2015 by Lisa Rosner

Student Director

SIENA STUCKI

Hello fellow Honnerds! I am Siena Stucki and I am rerunning for the position of Student Director of the Honors Program. Along with being your current Student Director, I am also the Secretary for Quidditch Club and the President of Marine Tech Society. Before I was Student Director, I was Director of Outreach for the Honors Program and loved telling prospective Honors students about our great program. My experience at Stockton has been an amazing one thanks to the community that is the Honors Program. If it weren’t for Honors, I wouldn’t have the friends I have now and wouldn’t know all of the dedicated and amazing people in this program. I am hard working and very devoted to this program. I have many great ideas for the upcoming year and I look forward to feedback from students as to what you would like to see come out of your program. The Honors Program has done so much for me and if re-elected I would love the opportunity to give back and once again be your Student Director.

Student Assistant Director

KRISTINE DUONG

Hello, my name is Kristine Duong. I am a junior biology major, from central Jersey and would be honored to be re-elected as your 2014-2015 Honors executive board assistant director. As the current Assistant Director I have taken on many responsibilities as well as actively assist every other chair on the eboard. My main goal for the new year is to come up with new ideas to create a stronger community within the program, and provide more benefits for the students that work so hard to stay here. The honors program created a home for me within Stockton, it has given me an environment for learning and service, opportunities unique only to us, and better friends than I could have ever imagined. I really want to give back to Honors and lead it with enough gusto and passion to create a program that students can really come to appreciate. Please vote for me for the next assistant director.

Event Directors

ONESTIE JACKSON AND LULU SCHMIDT

My name is Onestie Jackson (left) and I am a sophomore criminal justice major in the five year BA/MA program. I would love to be your events co-coordinator along with Lulu Schmidt (right). In my year in the honors program I have noticed that there isn’t much intermingling within the program with other classes. I am not familiar with most students in other classes and I hope to change that. I believe I am a fun and driven person who, with the help of Lulu, will plan events throughout the next academic year that will help foster relationships and help us gain a sense of community. Aside from living in honors housing and attending meetings, there should be more opportunities to get to know one another so we can depend on each other and build more relationships. I am friendly and open to ideas, so don’t be afraid to share your thoughts. Thank you!

Lulu Schmidt: As a future Events chairperson, I look forward to working with the Honors Program and coordinating interesting and exciting events for the program. I’d like to see the honors students get involved and to foster a sense of community and friendship among them through participation in events such as Pizza & Pong, the Gift Exchange, etc. I am very excited to reach out to the current Events chairpeople in order to receive their advice, ideas, and successful events of the past. I would like to work with them, as well as my current co-coordinator Onestie, on incorporating the program’s past successes into more successful events of the future. I would definitely like to brainstorm new program event ideas as well, and work to make them just as successful as the events that have worked in the past. Overall, I am open to event ideas from the program members and am dedicated to providing quality events for the honors students to enjoy and bond over, and hopefully we will create a stronger honors community through these events as well.

Public Outreach Director

NANCY WRAGA

Hello! My name is Nancy Wraga, and I am currently a sophomore in the Honors Program, as well as the current student Director of Outreach. I would like to be reelected as Director of Outreach because I am dedicated to informing potential honors students about the program’s aspects and benefits. I have tabled at multiple Open Houses since being elected, and have been asked various questions by potential freshmen and transfers. As Director of Outreach I will continue to try to help expand the honors program as well as help my fellow executive board members and all members of the honors program.

Community Service Directors

CASSIDY TROY AND KATE VOLPE

I want you to imagine a lake: perhaps Lake Fred if you want. Now I want you to picture someone throwing a pebble into it. Can you explain to me what happens to the water the instant the pebble hits it? Mother Teresa once said, “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” This quotation shows that we have the power to cause an entire lake to ripple by the throwing of a tiny stone. Similarly, I think a stone needs to be thrown in the metaphorical lake of the Honors Program. I think there needs to be a change in the now-stagnant waters.
So some ideas: I want to help everyone make that change by having a goal for the entire Honors Program. I want to have service projects readily available and maybe even work for some causes/ organizations. I am going to do my best. I am open to input and other ideas because I know that this is a very broad one so far.
Some easy passive projects I have been thinking of:
1. Collecting can tabs for the Ronald McDonald House. The funds generated from recycling these aluminum tabs helps offset the House’s expenses.
2. Collecting bottle caps for “Caps of Love,” an organization based in Florida that uses the money from recycled bottle caps to pay for children who are disabled and cannot afford
wheelchairs.
Maybe we can incorporate the “Class Cup” idea with these two things.
One idea leads to another. One pebble can lead to the rippling and rising of so many potential possibilities for changes. Maybe we could call it “Set the Stone for Service,” like set the tone, get it?

Hi, my name is Kate Volpe, and I’m running for Director of Community Service.
I was really inspired by the reflection session with Dr. Lanier. If you went, you know that community service came up a lot, more than any other topic. After the reflection session, I tried to think of service projects that fit all the criteria we seemed to want: something fulfilling; something the whole Honors Program could work on together; and something that attacks the root cause of a problem. I came up with a few ideas: raising money to purchase rainforest acreage through the Earth’s Birthday Project; sponsoring a local family with school-age children and buying them needed items throughout the year (school supplies, a Thanksgiving turkey, Christmas presents, etc); and holding a Christmas-themed 5k to raise money to give local, underprivileged kids a Christmas to remember. I have many other ideas as well, which I think the Honors Program could create together, mostly focusing on visiting Veterans’ homes and nursing homes on a regular, weekly basis.
In the end, these are just jumping-off points. My goal, in running for Director of Community Service, is to work as a team with all of you to create something we can all be proud of, that we can point to and say “this is what the Stockton Honors Program is:” a program of generosity, integrity, and intelligence that makes a real difference in our community and in the world.

Peer Mentoring Director

ZEAL KAMDAR

Fundraising and Finance Directors

KAITLYN DOYLE AND FRANCESCA DEVITO

Hello everyone, for those of you who don’t know us, I am Kaitlyn Doyle and I am Francesca Devito and we are co-running for Finance and Fundraising. I believe we are perfect for the job because I have been fundraising director for a year so I have plenty of experience and Francesca has fresh ideas to bring to the program. I am also a dedicated member of other clubs on campus such as Quidditch and Active Minds. I put everything I have into the clubs and programs that I am involved in and I would love to have the opportunity to be an officer of this club for another year.
I believe that I would be a good addition to the Finance and Fundraising position
along with Kaitlyn because I believe I can help come up with fun new ways to create
fundraising opportunities. I believe that although I am not as experienced as Kaitlyn that I can help make positive contributions to this position. As well, I also believe I can help the Honors Program become a stronger program and provide new ideas for the Honors
Program as a whole. That being said, I would love to be given the chance to prove that I am the right person for this job, and have the opportunity to be awarded this position.

Class of 2017 Representative

REBECCA CLAXTON

My name is Rebecca Claxton. I’m a Junior Math major at Stockton, and I am running for Class
of 2017 Representative. Currently, I am President of the Math honor society Pi Mu Epsilon, Vice President of Math Club, Treasurer of Active Minds, and Head of Referees for Quidditch. So I’m well-versed in the workings of executive boards. However, I have really hoped to get to be on the Honors e-board for a while because I want to be as involved in the Honors Program as possible. This program has been such a great opportunity for me, and it has allowed me to meet all of the best people in my life. So I am very excited for all the events to come and can’t wait to be a part of making it even better.

Class of 2018 Representative

AMY BRENNAN

Hi! My name is Amy Brennan, and I am running for the Class of 2018 Honors Program Representative. I am currently a Sophomore here at Stockton working towards my Bachelor’s, and eventually Master’s, Degree in Social Work. I am minoring in Childhood Studies and want nothing more than to be able to work with children to ensure their health, happiness, and safety. I am very involved here on campus as a member of the Residental Hearing Board, Alpha Lamda Delta Honor Society, and the Honors Program while I am also a CARE Peer Mentor. I am very much looking forward to giving back to the Honors Program, as I have gained so much from being a part of it. I will work to the best of my ability to make sure everyone’s voice is heard, and that my class feels represented in their opinions, concerns and questions about any aspect of the Honors Program. I hope to help ensure everyone’s satisfaction with their Honors’ Experience!

Class of 2019 Representative

WILHEMINA KENNEDY

Hello, my name is Wilhemina Kennedy and I am a biology major with a concentration in biotechnology. As the Class of 2019 Representative, I seek to be the voice of my fellow freshman, to speak out on their behalf when conflict arises or a concern or suggestion is brought to my attention. I consider my position a full time, 24/7 responsibility so that I may be a person that walks with integrity and leads by example. I wish to be a person that radiates amiability, that all my classmates can feel comfortable approaching at any given time. In everything I do, I give my 110%. My diligence, accountability, and hardworking nature is sure to carry out throughout my term as the Class of 2019 Representative for the Honors Program.

Blog Post Fifteen – Freshman Life at Stockton College

Posted on April 23, 2012 by Lisa Rosner

Throughout the fall and spring semesters here at the Richard Stockton College of New Jersey, I have become a more responsible and confident individual. Not only have these feelings been a result of dorming and having a meal plan, but the services available to the students here have also been a great help. As I have previously mentioned, the Honors Program has played a large role, as well as the fitness programs and the nutritionist have helped me adjust to college life. There are also other services on campus that I have taken advantage of, such as the Academic Advising and the Career Center. The Service Learning Office has also played a large role because my outlook on service projects has improved immensely since arriving on campus. I am writing this blog from my point of view as a freshman student because I want other students that are possibly not on campus to realize what is available to them and experience the same feelings I have.

Blog Post Fourteen – The Honors Program

Posted on April 23, 2012 by Lisa Rosner

After being accepted into the Richard Stockton College, I wanted to continue challenging myself by applying for the Honors Program the college offered. I could not have been happier the day I found out I had been accepted into the program. Over the summer, I was welcomed into the Honors Family through the Honors Experience. It was a great time to meet new people, become adjusted to the campus, and learn some useful background information about adapting to freshman college life. When I arrived on campus, my first semester freshman seminar, Honors Life of the Mind, played a large role in getting used to college life. I became closer to my classmates, as well as, to the faculty involved in the program.

As I have continued my time here, I have realized the Honors Program has a lot more to offer than I had initially taken into consideration. I have frequently been using the Honors Center and talking to the upper classmen that are usually there. Also, although, my schedule conflicts with the Honors Program monthly meetings, I receive valuable email notifications about the different events the Honors Program is either hosting or involved in, such as the Day of Scholarship, Celebration of Creativity, and other fun events, such as the game night. As I continue my time here at Stockton, I hope to learn even more about the Honors Program and the wonderful students and faculty that are a part of this family.

Blog Post Thirteen – Movie Nights at the Campus Center

Posted on April 23, 2012 by Lisa Rosner

After a long, stressful week of classes and work, all I want to do on the weekends is relax. I am sure other students, like me, like enjoy the free time before the craziness begins again, which is where the movie nights at the Campus Center at the Richard Stockton College come in. Every week I look forward to seeing what movie they will be playing! I love the great options too; you can attend the evening movie either Thursday night or Saturday night. Yet, the best part is all the movies that are featured are free! Students even have the option of participating in the Osprey Movie Rewards Program!

The movies are held in the lobby of the Campus Center in the new event room. I always feel like I am in a real movie theater because of the high-definition screen and audio system, as well as the comfy seats! This semester I have seen some great films, such as Paranormal Activity 3, Twilight Breaking Dawn, and Sherlock Holmes 2. In the past, my friends and I have enjoyed watching Friends with Benefits and Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. My other favorite thing about movie nights is that Stockton College usually has movies available for students to watch before they are even out on DVD. Before I attended college, I was such a big movie fan, so when I found out about the Campus Center movie nights, I could not have been happier!

(I always check out the site to see what is playing that week, you can check it out to at: http://intraweb.stockton.edu/eyos/page.cfm?siteID=108&pageID=41)

Blog Post Twelve – Service Learning Event The Celebration of Creativity

Posted on April 23, 2012 by Lisa Rosner

As I have discussed in my previous blogs, I am completing Service Learning for two of my courses, the Honors Program and Public Health Marketing. I decided to work with the Jersey Shore Children’s Museum and complete marketing work for them. Through the Service Learning Office, I was put in touch with the marketing company that works with the museum, Ugly Baby Marketing, and the two women that run the business, Sherri Brentari and Karen Komo. By working for the museum and Ugly Baby Marketing, I was also introduced to another student, Stephanie Mak, who has been my marketing partner throughout the semester. We all agreed the Jersey Shore Children’s Museum was a great place for families to go and we want everyone to have the same perspective we have.

In order to complete this vision, we decided to create an event that involved the communities around the museum. The event was on April 21st and was called the Celebration of Creativity, the first event ever dedicated to the museum. I never understood how much work went into planning and organizing an event. I was in contact with numerous Stockton Staff and Professors, the coordinator of the Shore Mall, Daycare Facilities, Learning Centers, and Supermarkets for food donations. The Celebration of Creativity involved two contests and art work from Stockton, near by High Schools, and Daycare/Learning Center Facilities. The event went really well for the first time and I hope that I can work with the museum for my Service Learning Project for the following year so that I can run this event again! (I have attached the flyer underneath).

Celebration of Creativity Flyer

Blog Post Eleven – Celebration of Service

Posted on April 23, 2012 by Lisa Rosner

After participating in the Day of Scholarship, I wanted to share my Service Learning project with even more people and decided to attend the Celebration of Service on April 10th. The event was from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. that Tuesday located in the F-Wing Atrium, by the library. There were multiple clubs, organizations, and event information available throughout the day. I was really excited to participate in this event because I wanted to showcase my work once again and I even got my own table to present my service project! Also from attending the event, I obtained information from Student Development to help me promote my event, the Celebration of Creativity, as well as was introduced to a Marketing professor that helped me gain insightful information about the field I am currently working in.

However, compared to the Day of Scholarship, I wanted to discuss and promote the event itself, on April 21st, rather than discuss my experience with the project. The location was to everyone’s benefit because students, faculty, and staff travel through that area often throughout the day. Presenters, like me, were encouraged to bring flyers, pictures, and any other means of promotional or educational material. For example, I used the same tri-fold from the Day of Scholarship, but brought more flyers, magazines, and stood by my poster to encourage participation. Even though this was the 1st Annual Celebration of Service and I think it was a great success and hope that even more individuals and groups will be present next year!

Blog Post Ten – Day of Scholarship

Posted on April 23, 2012 by Lisa Rosner

The Day of Scholarship, on March 22nd, was a wonderful event where individual students or a group of students were promoted to present any type of service or educational project they have been working on from the fall 2011 semester or spring 2012 semester. I am currently a student in Public Health Marketing and the Honors Program, both which take part in Service Learning. For both of these courses, I wanted to attend the Day of Scholarship and discuss the work with the Jersey Shore Children’s Museum for my Service Learning Project. I made a tri-fold poster that talked about the museum, the fundraiser event we would be having on April 21st, and my experience working on this project.

This Service Project I am completing has become so much more than just a requirement for my class. I am involved in marketing work for the Jersey Shore Children’s Museum. It is a non-profit organization that is in need of much assistance and I am happy to say that I am a part of the helping process. I am also being assisted in this project by another Stockton student, Stephanie Mak, and two very important role models in the marketing field, Sherri Brentari and Karen Komo. Our main work has consisted of putting together an event to bring more attention to the museum and involve Stockton even more in the community. This opportunity has changed me in so many ways. I now feel confident in myself to take on larger responsibilities and become more involved in marketing and Stockton activities.

Blog Post Nine – Building Battles

Posted on April 23, 2012 by Lisa Rosner

On Tuesday March 27th, I woke up looking forward to a whole day of no classes and attending Building Battles! The reason we had no classes was because it was Preceptor Day for the upper class-men so I was excited to spend the day “battling the other buildings.” I have had the pleasure to part take in this event as a result of staying on campus in the dorms for my freshman year. The entire day was filled with great music, food, and activities for each building. The day was set up so that each building would be challenging the others in all different types of competitions.

These competitions were super fun, but some difficult for my building of all girls, such as the Tug-a-War battle. There was a Stockton Trivia Quiz, in which I learned some new, fun facts about the school, such as the tunnel connecting the bottom of F-Wing to the Campus Center. My floor even won the blueberry pie eating contest, and like I said we were all girls! My favorite battles were the two giant blow-up activities. The most fun blow-up was the two huge connected slides that you had to race your opponent on, and I am happy to say I won on that one! We took a break to enjoy delicious hamburgers, hot dogs, and veggie burgers that had been provided for us. The rest of the day consisted of a flag battles, pyramid-people building, and much more. I wish I could stay in the dorms next year to do this event again!