April 12, 2010

This week was definitely a motivating, inspirational, and exciting week that will remain with me forever. Attending the Women for OSU's annual Symposium never ceases to deliver life-changing sentiments and powerful insight. That extraordinary afternoon, coupled with my regular meetings, service, and a visit from my family, provided a delightful week at OSU!

Tuesday late afternoon, I felt as if a weight had been lifted off my shoulders after finishing back-to-back exams. I've been lucky this semester with the scheduling of my tests being on different days for the most part. Although it turned out fine, it did supply a decent amount of stress, which I was happy to have relieved.

The following morning I awoke to a very a significant day. As I got ready for the 2010 Women for OSU Symposium with guest speaker Nancy Brinker, thoughts of philanthropy swam through my head. It was an honor to be a guest of Anne Greenwood, chairman of the Women for OSU Council and devoted philanthropist. Also to be attending as a finalist for the Student Philanthropist of the Year Award was such an immense privilege; service is an act that I truly love performing and the fact that that passion is being seen by others is so amazing to me. Simply being a part of the six young women nominated, I felt so grateful. As the winner for the 2010 Student Philanthropist of the Year Award was announced, I honestly couldn't believe my ears as my name was one of the two winners this year. Rachel Branch was also the Student Philanthropist of the year! I was awestruck as I approached the stage, to greet the room of truly influential, inspiring women before me. Their bold examples of giving that seem to have no limits are what inspire me on a daily basis. The fact that I am enabled to attend college and, therefore, obtain a career due to a few extremely generous individuals is what empowers me with a desire to give back as well. The award was only one highlight of the afternoon, as the program progressed with table discussions and more impassioned words. Lola Lehman was named the 2010 Philanthropist of the year, and much deserved, at age 100, she and her sisters have helped so many students at OSU. I myself was fortunate enough to receive a Lola Lehman and Lottie Herd scholarship while in the College of Human Environmental Sciences and she is definitely a self-sacrificing woman that gave when most of us would have thought we didn't have enough for ourselves. The incredible impact she has made on students at OSU is remarkable! The Susan G. Komen Foundation is so profoundly important to our society and the search for a cure for breast cancer it is unbelievable. The number of lives that have been touched and that continue to be affected by this organization are astonishing. I was utterly impressed by Nancy Brinker's statement that afternoon; what an inspiring woman! The number of individuals that make the program possible, such as researchers, Walk for the Cure coordinators, etc., is heartening. She spoke specifically about the “power of one,” which really moved me. The power of one is strong, and although you may be one person, you can change lives; you plus one, plus one, plus one, etc., can really create a powerful outcome! Here are some pictures from the event!

Rachel Branch, Nancy Brinker, and Me	Me and Anne Greenwood

Thursday I met at the Murphy House for a Student Foundation Exec meeting to discuss our last general meeting! It is hard to believe the year is coming to a close already. Afterward, CKI met and discussed upcoming business and finalized shifts for the upcoming Kiwanis Pancake Dinner.

Friday evening CKI'ers and Builders Club convened at First United Methodist Church ready to cook and serve pancakes to help support Kiwanis! An annual event that we assist Kiwanis with every year, I have really come to enjoy flipping pancakes by the hundreds, haha. From 5-8 we mixed batter, flipped pancakes, served drinks, and helped customers that came to support Kiwanis. Saturday morning we arrived bright and early to serve people that came from 8-1. Although we stay busy during this event, the Kiwanians are such a wonderful group of people to be around. They are so kind-hearted and humorous, which makes any task enjoyable! Here are some picture from Friday and Saturday.

Right after I returned from the dinner my mom, grandparents and aunt arrived to see my dorm at OSU before I start packing up for the summer. We had a nice short visit and lunch! I wish they could have stayed longer because it was back to reality and the large amount of homework that remained for the time left for the weekend.

During weeks such as this, it is hard to believe that I can be so blessed by the influences and wisdom of so many incredible people. I truly am grateful for all the opportunities I have been afforded thus far and look forward to many great experiences ahead at Oklahoma State!

GO POKES!