“She is the type of student we should reward for her tenacity and commitment to learning, both in the classroom and beyond,” Dr. Shauna Reilly, professor of political science and director of the
Institute for Student Research and Creative Activity, says. “Mia’s long-term plan is to serve her community, and the University Service Award will demonstrate the service she has already contributed to make NKU and her community better.”
And it’s not just NKU where Mia has served. Through her local church and Discipleship House, Mia has volunteered in different parts of the U.S., including several Native American reservations in Louisiana, Wisconsin and South Carolina. As Miss Independence, she also served her hometown in various community projects and settings. Having grown up in a tight-knit family in Independence with four younger siblings, attending NKU was perfect and unique. She says it allowed her to receive a high-quality education close to home.
“I chose NKU because it afforded me the option to commute,” Mia says. “I was able to pursue a fantastic education while also having the ability to live at home and work. Through this, I actually had the opportunity to build networks both on campus and throughout my community, which will be incredibly helpful post-graduation. I have had the opportunity to learn from people at NKU and in my community, which has provided me with an education that goes beyond just academics.”
In the fall, Mia will attend the University of Cincinnati College of Law. But before that, she has some big post-graduation plans.
“I am looking forward to enjoying a season of rest! I have never not been so busy that I am at maximum capacity,” she says. “I am very excited to rest and pursue new hobbies.”
