2022-2023 Citizen Scholars
Living the Public Affairs Mission
The six students selected for the 2022–2023 Citizen Scholar Award were chosen based upon their dedication to the Public Affairs Mission of the university through coursework, activities, and service-learning opportunities.
Morgan Blanck
Morgan is a senior from Willow Springs, Missouri and is majoring in Professional Writing. Following her graduation in the summer of 2023, she plans to become an editor. She would love to work either from home or with a local publishing company. Morgan serves as the Student Life Receptionist on the MSU West Plains campus, editing and planning events. While interning with Cornerpost Press, Morgan gained editing experience working on two published works, one which made the short list for the PEN/Falkner Award. Her nominator, Dr. Gary Phillips, Department Chair of English, Communications & Letters at MSU – West Plains writes… “I feel it is important to note that Morgan has been self-motivated and self-driven in her education and service… Through work with SGA and the Office of Student Services she has helped to make more of our students part of the process of going to college and changing our campus and community.”
Samara Mizutani Cesar
Samara is a graduate student from Sao Paulo Brazil and Isesaki, Japan. She is currently studying to obtain her Master’s in Criminology and after graduation, she wants to pursue a Doctorate in Anthropology. She is proud of being part of the creation of Bears HEAL, a peer-to-peer support program for survivors of interpersonal violence. Her nominator, Caryn Saxon, a Senior Instructor in the Criminology Department, noted, “…one of Samara’s most impressive achievements is her decision…to design and execute her own research study on sexual violence and international students… generating deeper knowledge and understanding, as well as applying that understanding to programs and initiatives that can strengthen communities and improve people’s lives…Samara’s work has already initiated discussions about needed policy and practice changes on campus.”
Milana Hainline
Milana is a senior from Springfield, Missouri, and is majoring in Elementary Education. Post-graduation, Milana plans to teach elementary students in the general education classroom in the Northwest Arkansas area. She is an accomplished vocalist and has released two singles on streaming platforms, and just finished her debut album in Nashville, Tennessee. Her ability to focus on something creative has been one of her greatest gifts to share with the world. She also hopes to release more music after her album is released on December 9th. Milana’s nominator, Katie Sholley, a College of Education advisor stated, “Milana strives to leave the world better than she found it. Whether it is through her dedication to her community, or leading the way into better treatment of teachers, she always looks for ways to better the way around her.”
Blake Rief
Blake is a senior from Eureka, Missouri. He is currently majoring in Criminology with a minor in Military Science. After graduating, Blake plans to commission as an Engineer, Field Artillery, or Armor Officer in the United States Army. After he serves, he would like to become a police officer or start his own farm. One of his greatest accomplishments was being invited as a representative of the Foundation Scholarship and ROTC member at the Celebration event. Blake’s nominator, Lieutenant Michael Lengel, Department Head, Professor of Military Science, stated “…Cadet Rief has a strong sense of ethical direction, as well as demonstrates the epitome of outstanding character and behavior. He will not hesitate to uphold the Army values of Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage.”
Orlondo X. Williams Jr.
Orlondo is a senior from Saint Louis, Missouri and is majoring in Child & Family Development, specifically youth. Orlondo intends to study Education Administration after his undergraduate degree to become a High School Principal, with a long-term goal to receive a Doctorate of Higher Education with hopes to become a University President. One of his proudest accomplishments is being featured as a College of Education Banner student. In explaining why, he nominated Orlondo, Dr. Ryan Reed, Director of Access & Success Programs stated, “Faculty at Missouri State University describe Orlondo as charismatic and a positive influencer in the classroom, which helps to promote our student success environment… The amount of effort he put in to make MSU a place where minority students can thrive is unmeasurable. His presence is making a long-lasting impact on the campus.”
Lindsey Sanderson
Lindsey is a senior from Wichita, Kansas and is majoring in Construction Management with a minor in Interior Design. Lindsey’s future plans are to work for a general contractor in a role where she can create value and continue to develop her leadership skills, while also continuing to volunteer in the community. In explaining why he nominated her, Dr. Richard Gebken, Department Head of Technology and Construction Management said “Her work to elevate the visibility and exposure of women in the construction industry is unparalleled. Lindsey has served as an ambassador of the program… and is always willing to take time out of her busy schedule to meet with prospective high school students when they visit campus. She also serves as a role model and a mentor to her student peers. Lindsey is on the right path to a successful career with her passion and commitment to excellence.”