Pawscars Awards recognize outstanding students and student organizations

Each spring, Davenport University holds its annual Pawscars Awards Ceremony to recognize its outstanding students, to honor registered student organizations (RSOs), and highlight those nominated for Panther's Choice Awards.

"The Pawscars is a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate our students' dedication, efforts and leadership," said Natalie Wagner, director of Student Life at Davenport. "Their involvement and accomplishments have contributed to a strong Davenport community."

Davenport faculty, staff, and students are asked to nominate for the Pawscars Awards RSOs and students who have gone above and beyond. All nominations are reviewed by a panel of judges, with the finalists and their nominators invited to attend the Pawscars Awards Ceremony, where the winners in each category are revealed.

The ceremony was emceed by Cole Fournier and Carly Snyder, two energetic student leaders at Davenport. It was opened by Richard J. Pappas, Davenport University president, who addressed the value of getting involved during college and congratulated the finalists for their efforts and contributions to the university.

All Pawscars finalists received a certificate, and the winners received a Pawscars trophy and may be eligible to receive a scholarship. The Panther's Choice winners received a certificate and a themed prize. Winners in the RSO category will receive additional funding for their group.

Individual award winners:
Emerging Leader - Owen Durham
Heart & Soul - Olivia Doxtater
Grit - Cora Goodemoot
Panther Pride - Robert Bassford
Student Leadership - Courtney Drew, Jesse Ward, & Saul Pitout
Student Employee - Abi Braden, Ashley McGavin, & Owen Stender

Registered Student Organization Award winners:
Unsung Hero - Deserae Nelson, Student Veterans of America
Outstanding Officer - Cole Fournier, CAB (Campus Activities Board)
Outstanding RSO - Lansing Student Nurses' Association and CAB

Panther's Choice Award winners:
Most likely to break a world record - Alex Bryant
Most likely to become a comedian - Carly Snyder
Most likely to be a superhero - Fred Bennett IV
Most likely to be on America's Got Talent - Carly Snyder
Most likely to become internet famous - Cole Fournier