2023 winner - Catherine Giuliani

Catherine (Catie) Giuliani is a Liberal Studies major with an interdisciplinary academic background with sequences in History and Art History and minors in Anthropology and American Studies. Catie also completed certificates in creative writing, public history, and foundations of literature and is a member of the Martinson Honors College. Besides her academic achievements, Catie supports fellow students as a writing center tutor and a Resident Assistant. Catie participates in various student organizations and projects, making her an active member of the Rowan community. Catie interned for the McNeil Center for Early American Studies in Philadelphia, the Museum of American Glass at WheatonArts (South Jersey), and for Singularity Press as an editing intern. Catie intends to work at her hometown library and pursue graduate education, with the aim of transitioning to museum work in Philadelphia. The Liberal Studies Program is impressed by her passion and eagerly anticipates her future endeavors!

2022 winner - Valentina Blando

Valentina Blando is a Liberal Studies major with sequences in Sociology and Public Relations as well as a minor in Psychology. She is an outstanding student with a zest for learning from an array of academic disciplines that truly exemplifies the spirit of an interdisciplinary education. Valentina has maintained an exceptionally high GPA and has been on the President’s List every semester during her time at Rowan. In addition to her impressive academic achievements, Valentina has also been an active member of the Public Relations Student Society of America. She also serves her community through various volunteer efforts in working with people with disabilities. The Liberal Studies Program is proud to recognize Valentina as our 2022 Senior of Distinction!

2021 Winner - Deborah Poolos

Debra (Debbie) Poolos is a first- generation, non-traditional, transfer student with a major in Liberal Studies (sequences in American Studies and Women’s and Gender Studies) and a minor in Psychology. While Debbie began her academic journey later than some, she brings her rich life experiences and enthusiasm to every class. She is passionate about supporting first-generation college students and participated as a First Generation Panelist at the first annual First-Generation Symposium. After a recent career change from insurance to local government (in finance!), Debbie is excited about the future. Debbie will come back to continue her studies at the graduate level and is working to find her next spark of inspiration to guide her next steps.

2020 Winner - Alexandra Schlager 

2019 Winner - Olivia Dellston

As a student in Liberal Studies Humanities and Social Sciences, with sequences in Sociology and American Studies and a minor in Women and Gender Studies. Olivia stood out, because she relished a challenge

and brought both the personal and intellectual into her studies. She
is directing her learning to helping others and chose internships during college which reflect this. Last summer she was an Intern in Buenos Aires Argentina doing research on gender and homelessness and she’s been

an intern this year at The Shop Food Pantry. Olivia also serves on the College of Humanities and Social Sciences Student Advisory Council, through which she collaborates with College administration to best serve students.