Marian University proudly celebrates the exceptional accomplishments of its students through a series of year-end ceremonies highlighting academic excellence, leadership, service, and professional development.  The Office of Student Life spearheads the annual Student Recognition Awards, showcasing outstanding individuals and organizations nominated by faculty, staff, and fellow students.  In addition, the Business Program and Nursing Program host their own events where students are recognized.

2025 Student Recognition Awards 

• Student of the Year: Sydney Schipper
  A senior majoring in Exercise and Sport Science from Stoughton, Wisconsin, Schipper exemplifies excellence both academically and through her leadership.  As captain of the Women’s Ice Hockey Team, a Student Senate member, and an advocate within the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), she has positively impacted both Marian campus life and the community.
• Spirit of Marian Award: Maria Miller
  Named in honor of former Vice President and Dean of Students Carol Reichenberger, this award recognizes a student who embodies the heart and mission of Marian.  Miller, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing graduate from West Bend, Wisconsin, has served as president of two campus organizations, coordinated numerous charitable initiatives, and led preparations for a May Mission trip.
• Up and Coming Club of the Year: Ultimate Frisbee Club
  As a newly formed organization, the Ultimate Frisbee Club has quickly built a welcoming and inclusive community.  Through its events, members engage in fun, skill-building activities that foster friendships and encourage physical activity.

Top Club Awards 

• Program of the Year & President’s Cup: Ping Pong Club
  Launched in Fall 2024 with over 80 members, the Ping Pong Club earned both the Program of the Year and the President’s Cup—the university’s most prestigious club honor. These awards recognize the club’s excellence in leadership, student engagement, community involvement, and alignment with Marian’s core values.

Core Value-Based Program Awards

• Learning: Forensic Science Association
  The association’s annual Mock Crime Scene event in April drew record participation of over 100 visitors to Marian’s Crime Scene House to learn about crime scene investigation and evidence analysis.
• Service: Campus Ministry
  Campus Ministry organized Lenten service projects reflecting the Works of Mercy, including preparing meals for the homeless and running clean water and shoe drives.
• Social Justice: Student Nurses Association (MUSNA)
  MUSNA held a personal hygiene drive in January 2025, donating nearly $150 in supplies with additional contributions from students to support underserved communities.
• Spiritual Traditions: Campus Ministry
  Campus Ministry also hosted Adoration in Dorcas Chapel, with Fr. Matthew Kirk, from Holy Family parish presiding. A rosary bracelet station led by Mady Wilson provided a creative way for students to deepen their spiritual connection.

Academic Department Awards

2025 Business Program Students of the Year  

• Accounting: Connor Bending from Schaumberg, Illinois
• Business Administration: Kyler Fenske from Wautoma, Wisconsin
• Business Management: Samuel Schaefer from Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
• Construction Management: Matteo Pecchia from North Vancouver, British Columbia
• Data Science: Kendall Pliner from Mayville, Wisconsin
• Finance: Connor Powers from Appleton, Wisconsin
• Healthcare Administration: Kimberly Salgado from Round Lake, Illinois
• Marketing: Audra Johnson from Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
• Marketing & Public Relations: Augustus Walker from Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Sports & Recreation Management: Rory Clark from Muskego, Wisconsin
• Adult & Online Studies: Kaitlen Gerrits from Oshkosh, Wisconsin
• Student Entrepreneurs: Mykala Anthony from Fond du Lac, Wisconsin; Brady Brenner from Calgary, Alberta; Christine Klejka from Fond du Lac, Wisconsin; Brandon Modde from Minooka, Illinois
• Emerging Leader: Ethan Tessmer from Oshkosh, Wisconsin

 2025 Nursing Program Awards  

• Nursing Excellence in a Clinical Setting: Annice Klapperich from Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
• Professionalism Award: Riley Shores from Rockton, Illinois
• Patient Advocacy Award: Maria Miller from West Bend, Wisconsin

Marian University was founded in 1936 by the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes, a group of pioneering sisters, in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.  The university has a rich tradition of dedication to the education of the whole person and offers a variety of undergraduate, master’s and adult learning degrees at its main campus and online.