Introducing the 2025 Student Life Award Winners!

Last night, at the 2025 Student Life Awards Banquet, we celebrated the academic, leadership and service accomplishments of the NHCC students and employees who have made a difference on our campus. We enjoyed taking the time to recognize and reflect on the hard work and successes of our students this year! Also, important to note, the theme of this year's event was Vintage 1960's! Think flower power, bell-bottoms, tie dye and peace signs! Guests were looking groovy, see photos below! 

The International Student of the Year Award 

This award is intended to recognize and reward the accomplishments and contributions of current International Students.
Recipient: Faesal Okanlawon 
Nomination Highlights: “Faesal is a bright light on campus and an example of what NHCC strives to portray in our exemplary students who will change lives!”

Academic Achievement Awards

The Academic Achievement Awards recognize and honor academic excellence and exemplary achievement of current NHCC students within the different academic areas of the College. Four students were recognized at the event for their academic achievements (each pictured below).

1. Outstanding Academic Achievement in Nursing and Allied Professions 
   Recipient: Hawa Toury 
   Nomination Highlights: "She was unsuccessful in the Fall 2024 semester of a nursing school. This semester she has come back with vengeance.  She has worked hard and received A's on her first two exams. This is a very rare occurrence to have this success and improvement. She has worked diligently with faculty to achieve her dream of becoming a nurse.”
    
2. Outstanding Academic Achievement in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Math 
   Recipient: Luke Huss (not pictured)
   Nomination Highlights: “He seeks to find and push past the edge of his own or the field’s knowledge, and often as I think through his inquiries and thought process, I find myself musing about the topics more myself. As he gets farther in his studies, this curiosity and sense of what might be important and interesting will make him a very fine researcher. Luke is a bright, high-achieving student but also easygoing and cooperative with other people…”
    
3. Outstanding Academic Achievement in Liberal Arts & Academic Foundations 
   Recipient: Asal Lahootinejad
   Nomination Highlights:  "She comes to class curious, prepared and enthusiastic. Her hard work and determination to excel are always in evidence. But what really makes her stand out, what makes her unique, is that she may be, without exaggeration, one of the kindest human beings I've ever met. Seriously. Her integrity, empathy and sense of humor are evident in everything she does... Asal aspires to become a doctor, and I have no doubt that with her skill, determination, and persistence, she will be successful. But what makes me proud is knowing that she aspires to medical school for exactly the right reasons - to help people and make a difference in people's lives.”
    
4. Outstanding Academic Achievement in Business, Careers, Education & Work Innovation 
   Recipient: Sidick Bakayoko 
   Nomination Highlights: “This student has been enrolled in my Principles of Marketing class, and I would rate his overall performance and leadership as excellent. Teamwork is a critical component of this class as groups present case projects every week. He serves as a leader within his team and continually contributes creative ideas and offers thoughts for improving the structure and professionalism of each case. The last case assignment involved analyzing the pricing and distribution strategies for a new green cleaning company. Mr. Bakayoko’s marginal cost analysis and strategic pricing ideas were some of the best I have ever seen while teaching this unit. Finally, Mr. Bakayoko was an instrumental leader in a student-led initiative to reinstate Kappa Beta Delta as a Business Honor Society at NHCC. He helped to develop the club charter and professionally presented his motivation for the club to the NHCC Student Senate. He will serve as an officer in the new club and be a key member of the student recruitment process over the next several weeks.”

The Student Employee Excellence in Service Award

This award is intended to recognize a student who showcases different areas of customer service including quality work, positive image and role models.

Recipient (s): Faesal Okanlawon and Oluwatomiwa "Tomi" Ogundare
Nomination Highlights: “Our first student's nomination recognizes, “As a Student Ambassador, he consistently manages his tasks and responsibilities with diligence. He holds himself accountable and ensures his fellow ambassadors stay on track by clearly communicating completed tasks and identifying additional needs in the office. One task he consistently tackles promptly is making Acceptance Calls to newly admitted students. While calling students and leaving voicemails can be intimidating, he is always the first to take on the task without hesitation. When onboarding new employees, his willingness to train and support new students significantly eases the workload for Admissions Representatives and Supervisors. The staff can always rely on him to get the job done, and his fellow ambassadors appreciate his strong teamwork. As a Tour Guide, his openness and authenticity in sharing his student experience at NHCC resonate deeply with prospective students, particularly those who can relate to his journey as an international student.“ “He has been a star NHCC student since the moment he arrived on campus, and his story in how he came and ended up at NHCC! He is a bright light on campus and an example of what NHCC strives to portray in our exemplary students who will change lives!”

"Our next student also had several nominations from their department.  Many of them shared, the same growth and positive attitude this student shared as a role model. “When she first joined our team, she was a bit shy and reserved, but she quickly grew into the role, demonstrating initiative, adaptability, and a natural ability to lead.” “In the CARE Center & Food Cupboard, she presents a welcoming, positive and warm approach for students coming in during a sensitive time. Her calming presence has been a saving grace for many students, many of whom it is a vulnerable and challenging experience.” “Her warmth, leadership, and dedication have left a lasting impact on our team and the students she has supported, and we are honored to nominate her for the Student Employee Excellence in Service.“

The Recreation & Wellness Athlete of the Year Award 

The Athlete of the Year Award recognizes a student who participates in club sports and excels on and off the field as a teammate and leader. The recipient of the Athlete of the Year award this year has displayed sportsmanship, determination, leadership, and inspiration that brought out the best in their teammates. 
Recipient: Owen Wicklem
Nomination Highlights: "The recipient of the Athlete of the Year award this year has displayed outstanding sportsmanship, consistency, dedication, and attended nearly every practice. A peer nomination states, “Owen was a team player who loved to see his teammates succeed.” 
(pictured below is Owen with his friend and teammate, Travis at the Banquet). 

The 2025 Friend of Student Life Award 

The Friend of Student Life Award annually recognizes an individual, or department that has supported and helped accomplish the mission of Student Life and Recreation & Wellness (each pictured below). 

1. Recipient: Jessie Lokers (not pictured) 
   Nomination Highlights: "First we want to recognize an individual who has worked with each of us in numerous meetings, and re-working forms, procedures, automation, and migrating our electronic forms.  Jessie Lokers has began the foundational stages of efficiency for our office and we’re grateful for her grace, patience, humor, and productivity."
2. Recipient: Brisbane's Revenge 
   Nomination Highlights: "Finally, the last Friend of Student Life award goes to an external partnership.  Shifting from dark kitchens and vacant cafeterias to long lines and aromas of deep-fried potatoes, NHCC welcomed a caterer this spring. Jim from Brisbane’s Revenge has consistently asked employees and students for input, feedback, and requests. Brisbane’s catered several events and frequently goes above and beyond to meet dietary and cultural needs of the group."
3. Recipient: The CARE Center
   Nomination Highlights: "Next, we want to recognize an NHCC department who has been a major collaborator this year. They helped support with ideas, activities, volunteers, or splitting costs for Coffee Connections, Student Appreciation Day, Student Study Break, and Movies in the Campus Center.  They also crushed the inter-department competitions with the Thanks-A-Ton Food Cupboard donations, and the Halloween Department decoration contest where each person dressed as an emotion from Pixar’s Inside Out."

The Outstanding Club/Organization Member of the Year Award  

This award is given to a student who goes above and beyond to serve their club and fellow peers.
Recipient: Olivia Eckes
Nomination Highlights: "She's been part of everything the club does - art projects, planting flowers, and welcoming new faces. In her classes, she's consistently top of the class. She has a very clear sense of her education and career objectives and pursues them with persistence and patience. She’s a welcoming presence and an enthusiastic friend for everyone in the club. She is distinguished by her kindness and optimism, noticed by teachers and peers alike. This student has for two years been a dedicated and indispensable member of the Student Environmental Association."

The Outstanding Club/Organization Officer of the Year Award 

This award recognizes a student who makes significant and lasting contributions to the campus through their service and involvement. 
Recipient: Muna Wazwaz
Nomination Highlights: “This student experienced unexpected challenges when multiple transitions took place for the club.  They took on the added responsibility with grace and determination.  She grew in her leadership skills in organizing multiple events and fundraisers and worked on promoting cultural understanding and unity. Additionally, she joined Student Senate as a senator at large, further committing to advocacy and leadership development.” A nomination wrote, “Over the past year, challenges have been embraced, and the student has worked hard to improve and make a positive impact on campus.”

The Outstanding Club/Organization Advisor of the Year Award 

The success of a club not only depends on leadership and student involvement, but also greatly benefits from the support and attention provided by their faculty/staff advisor. This award recognizes and thanks the dedicated employees who advise our student groups.
Recipient: Monica Stanton
Nomination Highlights: “I realize that the words don’t say a lot and that is okay because she says it in her actions. She participates in all the meetings as well as going to activities such as Feed My Starving Children with the group. She goes above and beyond for the students, doing whatever she can do to support any student, we just happen to be privileged to have her in our nursing department.”

The Outstanding Club/Organization of the Year Award 

This award is given to a club/org who’s efforts support NHCC’s mission; while prioritizing the following areas: leadership, service, initiative, programming, education, diversity and campus, or community engagement.
Recipient: The Salam Club  
Nomination Highlights: “This club intentionally planned meetings and activities to create a deeper understanding of Islam and other cultures, breaking down stereotypes or misconceptions, and promoting unity. In addition to these regular gatherings, Salam Club has hosted events such as Iftar night, which have brought excitement and energy back to campus. These events not only celebrate cultural diversity but also strengthened community ties. The club’s collaboration with other organizations has further enriched campus life, creating a more vibrant and inclusive atmosphere. Salam Club is truly a transformative force on campus, offers a welcoming space for personal growth, connection, and learning, all while embracing the true essence of peace—Salam.”

The Outstanding Campus Program of the Year Award 

Recipient: Pathways Day 2024 (Tracii Hunter accepted this award)
Nomination Highlights: "This event served over 700 NHCC students this day, providing opportunities for students to connect and engage with our campus. There were multiple educational and skill-based workshops available to students, as well as an activity and transfer school fair and fun, interactive Bingo opportunities. It was a great event as it positively engaged students, staff, and faculty alike and provided opportunities for interaction and growth for all. Students reported in the feedback survey that they are taking away so many skills and tips that will help them at NHCC, as well as meeting people who will impact their time at NHCC. The Pathways Day Committee worked over the course of 6 months to make this event a success for our students!"

The Student Leader for Diversity Award 

This award is given to a student who demonstrates academic excellence and passion towards advocating, educating and making specific contributions to diversity, multiculturalism and outreach at NHCC. 
Recipient: Gloria Ramirez 
Nomination Highlights: "After becoming President of the Black Student Union, this student successfully organized recruitment efforts, a fundraiser, and an out-of-state trip to the Black College Expo for the group. She worked hard to make the group a welcoming and safe space for Black students and allies on campus. Some of the shyest members became some of the strongest voices of the group.“

The Outstanding Diversity Program of the Year Award

This award exemplifies NHCC’s commitment to campus diversity, inclusivity and empowerment.
Recipient: The Diversity Department: Keynote Speaker series
Nomination Highlights: "Bringing outside experts to provide insight into Diversity Equity and Inclusion, for cultural heritage months including: American Indian Heritage Month, Racial Day of Healing, Women's History Month, MLK Day and Black History Month."

The 2025 Resiliency Award 

The Resiliency Award is for a tenacious student who shows up as a student, leader and role model.
Recipient: Crown Bisan
Nomination Highlights: “She admitted that prior to assuming the officer role, she was not comfortable speaking in front of groups, but she has definitely overcome this fear.” Her story of starting at North Hennepin, involvement in Student Clubs and Orgs, Honors, holding leadership roles, and continuing to pursue mentoring youth." Another nomination emphasized, “When reading the Resiliency Award description and thinking of a student who embodies definition of resiliency, grit, determination, and perseverance the student that immediately comes to mind is Crown Bisan.” 

The 2025 Exceptional Growth and Development Award  

This award goes to a student who has shown immense growth in the last year.
Recipient: Travis Linton
Nomination Highlights: “Historically whenever we saw this student in passing, I would describe him as more reserved, and quiet. In the past year, I saw him grow in leadership.  He took initiative, was consistent, confident, and nurtured his dedication to sports and team building. He was Athlete of the Year 2024 and then employed by Rec & Wellness. In addition to the "fun part” in sports, he also put in work to recruit students, collect waivers, set up equipment, paint lines for the fields, launder jerseys, and attend/manage every practice and event. Travis was responsible and reliable, and filled in when our department was short-staffed. I'm excited to see him graduate and continue to grow!”

The Annual Student Senate Awards

Each year, members of our Student Senate give awards to various staff, faculty and students who have gone above and beyond in their work and responsibilities on-campus. Six people, or departments were recognized as assets to NHCC at the event (each pictured below).

1. The 2025 Staff of the Year Award 
   Recipient: Michael Mui
   Nomination Highlights: “Mike embodies the very spirit of this community that this award seeks to celebrate. Mike has consistently gone above and beyond to create a safe, welcoming environment for all students, helping to tackle the unique challenges that each of his students' faces. Mike has provided critical support to students navigating the complexities of academic pressures, personal challenges, and mental health struggles, with an uncanny ability to connect with students on a deeply human level, while offering practical tools and strategies. I personally would not be able to focus on my studies, extracurriculars in life and work without removing some of the roadblocks that I had mentally, and Mike was instrumental in helping me. For his extraordinary dedication to empowering students, promoting mental health, and strengthening the fabric of our college community, I wholeheartedly nominate Mike Mui for the Person of the Year award. They are not just a counselor—they are a champion, an advocate, and a true hero of North Hennepin Community College. "
    
2. The 2025 Faculty of the Year Award  
   Recipient: Debra Moberg (not pictured)
   Nomination Highlights: “Her hard work, dedication, and genuine love for her students make her an outstanding educator. She is humble, down-to-earth, and always ready to support her students — even those who are no longer in her class. She consistently checks in, offering encouragement and guidance whenever it’s needed.” Another affirms, “Your tireless work to bring smiles to students and make sure they understand the material and not give up so easily is highly appreciated since we can all tell you never bring them the bare minimum in class. You always socialize with your former students and provide supportive environment for anyone to comes to you even after they had left your class. As a teacher you want to see them succeed and reach their full potential in their courses. Congratulations on your well-deserved award.”
    
3. The 2025 Student of the Year Award
   Recipient: Amira Jama
   Nomination Highlights: "Her involvement included Salam Club and Student Senate.  She was nominated to run as a board member because of her exceptional work done, and her advocacy.  She listened to concerns from other students, brought it to college leadership, and has been making strides in creating a peaceful, welcoming environment on campus."
    
4. The 2025 Friend of Student Senate Award 
   Recipient (s): The NHCC Facilities department, President Garcia 
   and The NHCC Student Life department
   Nomination Highlights: "The entire facilities department has helped Student Senate act on students' concerns from clean water filters to facilitating food on campus. We are grateful for the work you do even behind the scenes. Individuals that we see go above and beyond are Madame Hawa and Mr. Daniel Bussing. Dan is remarkable for his willingness to help others solve a technical issue, or set up for events at a moment’s notice. Dan consistently approaches his work with a smile. Madame Hawa consistently goes above and beyond to keep the Campus Center clean and welcoming. Her diligence, reliability, and positive attitude do not go unnoticed— Madame Hawa always shows up and gives her best every single day."
    
5. Nomination Highlights: Student Senate had another friend to recognize this year, NHCC President, Dr. Garcia. The nominations highlighted his generous leadership, and our Senate was able to attend the LeadMN Scholarship gala with his support. One senator who attended that event, said, “I want to say with a big heart how thankful we as Student Senate are to have such a leader who not only represents the meaning of a role model but also dedicates his time and effort to encourage NHCC students to being the best in their leadership skills. Thank you for supporting us in every meaningful way possible you have done for us. I am honored to be in the presence of such leadership.” Another nomination said, “Dr. Garcia is very outgoing, always smiling, and cracking jokes when he meets with us.   He is always very welcoming to students and always opens the doors of opportunity for students to improve their personal selves and build connections. His advocacy for students and their beliefs go far above and beyond the highest expectations. We know that President Garcia believes in us and he consistently motivates us to be our best selves. I appreciate the team-like approach that he affords us with when taking the initiative to do what's best for the entire student and faculty body. Thank you, Dr. Garcia.” 
    
6. Nomination Highlights: As mentioned, there was another department that Student Senate wanted to recognize and that is NHCC's Student Life team. One of the nominations said, "Thank you for always showing up for us. Your support means more than you know, and we truly appreciate everything you do behind the scenes and beyond.” Another shared, “I want to give a huge shout to Hanh, Tarsha, and Monte for being the light of Student Senate and our support system when it comes to supporting the student body, they are always willing to help or to put in the effort that makes the student senate the success that they are. I am so honored to have worked with them throughout the year to make the presence of Student Senate visible to all those who come across NHCC.”  Finally, another nomination added, “I want to thank all of you for the incredible work you do in supporting and enhancing students’ lives here at North Hennepin. Student Life, you have been an amazing friend of mine and the Student Senate. From organizing activities that bring us together, to providing valuable resources for personal and academic growth, the Student Life Department is at the heart of what makes this college experience so special. Not only enriching our social lives as a college but also supporting us as Student Senate with every question, request and advice. I know it probably feels like we're your little sibling- LOL. It’s evident that you truly care about our college experience, and it doesn't just stop with your job role. You extended your hand to us, and we want to extend ours to you in awarding you as a friend of Student Senate.”  

A Message to the Graduating Students

Every year we honor our graduating students, especially those who have been involved in co-curricular activities through the Office of Student Life. At last nights event, the graduates stood up to be congratulated for their accomplishments! Congratulations were extended to the following graduating students present at the event:

• April Eason
• Augustine Benson
• Christine Fahnbulleh
• Crown Bisan
• D’Jonaé Jones
• Emily Meyer
• Emma Houston
• Faesal Okanlawon
• Fatoumata Dore
• Hawa O. Toury
• Heather Scavone-Albert
• Noah Drake
• Olivia Eckes
• Owen Wicklem
• Shaybreanna Braxton
• Timothy Ahern
• Travis Linton
• Nabil Khalif
• Gloria Ramirez
• Betol Al-Ali

Below are general photos from the event. The Vintage 1960's theme made it a fun night to dress up (guests enjoyed the Brasa catering, Kahoot trivia games and dance parties throughout the night!) Special thanks to David Mantini and the NHCC Jazz Combo Ensemble for supplying the fancy music at the beginning of the night! This event is looked forward to by many all year long! Take a look through the photos! 

Thank you to everyone who came out for a great night!