Bethlehem’s Student Life and Leadership Awards 2023

Northampton Community College (NCC) students, faculty, staff, family and friends gathered in the Student Life Zone on Bethlehem campus for the SAMMYs, NCC’s celebrated awards ceremony honoring individuals for their outstanding leadership and participation in student clubs and campus activities for the 2022-2023 year.

Douglas A. Smith, director of student life and leadership development, praised students for their involvement and the work they do to ensure NCC remains an active, vibrant campus.

“Clubs and student activities are vital to this school,” Smith said. “I hope all students who are involved with clubs are learning what they’re capable of achieving.”

NCC President, Dr. David A. Ruth, said research shows that students who participate in extra-curricular activities do better academically and are more likely to complete their education than those who do not.

“Participating in clubs and campus events benefits you in many ways and helps you prepare for life at a four-year institution,” Ruth said.

Congratulations to all those who took home awards this year. Their efforts in leadership and giving back to their campus and community were commendable.

New Awards for 2022-2023:

2023 Perseverance Award: Alejandro (Alex) Zuniga, a dean’s list student who works full-time while also participating in extracurricular activities

2023 Student Internship Award: Deni Velasquez, a computer science major, Velasquez is an intern for MIAC Analytics, a lending and brokerage company

Awards Recipients:

2023 Recognition Award: Women’s Club

The club has been placing period products at 27 campus locations. The baskets, for which products are donated, are meant to raise awareness of the need for period products and to provide convenience for women.

2023 Club of the Year: Hispanic American Cultural Club

“This club is a home for me,” said member Valentina Palacio. “It’s a safe space for us to be together and a chance for us to get to know and support each other.”

2023 Club Advisor of the Year: Susan Davidson

“As an advisor of the NCC Pride Gay/Straight Alliance, she consistently provides a space for students where they can grow and feel at home,” said Nikolai Blichar, assistant director of student life and leadership development.

2023 Club Officer of the Year: Sage Hillier, vice president of the Political Science Club who feels the work of the club is particularly urgent in the current uncertain political climate

2023 Irvine Freshman Leadership Award: Carrie Fuller, for her work with the Women’s Club. “The group is meant to give safe space to all women and anyone who identifies as a woman,” Fuller said.

2023 Spring Leadership Class: Scott Krock, Carrie Fuller, Madalynne Cerami, Ismael Adedoyin, Camille Carde, Gabriela Sampaio, Esther Abane, Sage Hillier, Nelson Pena, Isabella Morales, and Melisa Munroe

These students completed the leadership class, a highly selective, non-credit class.

2023 Environmental Excellence: Yael (Ellie) Whirthiem

2023 Prism Award: Jaileen Soto, who has taken on a leadership role in Pride Club

2023 Special Recognition Award: The International Student Organization, recognized for sponsoring the International Bazaar during the fall semester