Meet the winners of this year’s Woman of Influence Award and the Dr. Donna J. Streufert Leadership Award.
Each year, the Women’s Leadership Institute at CUW recognizes three Christian women—at least one student from each of the CUW and CUAA campuses, and one from the community at large—who exhibit exceptional servant leadership and boldly enter and influence in the spaces God has called them to serve. This year’s winners were honored at last Friday’s Women of Influence Award Banquet.
What does it mean to be a “woman of influence”? Here’s how it’s described on the Women’s Leadership Institute website:
“WLI believes that this woman steps up to whatever challenges come her way, questions the status quo, works with others, has empathy and a willingness to take action. She mentors and encourages. Above all, she recognizes the God who created and loves her is at the center of everything she does. She is a woman who needs Jesus and who runs to Him for guidance, grace and strength.”
Now let’s meet the winners!
2024 Woman of Influence Award
Sarah Schultz, Green Bay, WI
In her role as a teacher, Sarah has had a profound impact on her students, both academically and spiritually. Her ability to blend faith and education is evident, as seen in her daily practices through her dedication to education, leadership and faith-based mentorship. Her influence extends beyond the classroom, with students and colleagues praising her commitment to their holistic development.
Sarah’s leadership shines in her role as a trainer and speaker for Dignity Revolution, where she provides workshops on mental health and bullying prevention. She has been praised for her work with the Known Women’s Conference and her ability to build deep, meaningful relationships. Those who know her emphasize her authenticity, compassion, and ability to inspire.
Overall, Sarah’s dedication to fostering growth, both in her students and in the community, along with her strong leadership and unwavering faith, make her a strong recipient for the Woman of Influence award!
A few scenes from Friday night’s Women of Influence Award Banquet
Dr. Donna J. Streufert Leadership Award
The Dr. Donna J. Streufert Leadership Award is given annually to one or more female students at Concordia University Wisconsin and Concordia University Ann Arbor whom have demonstrated exceptional and/or unusual leadership. The award should be given to the woman who exemplifies servant leadership as demonstrated by Christ. This leadership may have been demonstrated in one of two ways:
- Outstanding service rendered to Christ and the Church at large.
- Consistent and/or unusual service at Concordia University Wisconsin or Concordia University Ann Arbor.
This year’s winners are:
Kaylee Frerking, CUW
Kaylee stood out due to her diverse accomplishments and experiences in leadership, community service, and spiritual growth. Those who know her say Kaylee has a strong commitment to Christian leadership, interpersonal skills, and a desire to empower others. She is an active leader and role model on campus who, in her own words, started as a timid freshman and grew to a confident leader. Her ability to connect with people, build community, and inspire others through her faith is evident and she demonstrates a commitment to serving others and making a positive impact on the world around her.
Overall, Kaylee’s experiences have equipped her with valuable skills and a compassionate heart, making her a well-rounded candidate for the Dr. Donna J. Streufert Leadership Award.
Kaylee Helchen, CUW
Kaylee has developed exceptional leadership qualities such as compassionate care, strong communication skills and taking initiative. She strives for academic excellence and demonstrates her commitment to serving others by volunteering with many community organizations. Those who know her note her spiritual maturity and eagerness to serve. She is a mentor and demonstrates a strong commitment to her faith and a desire to lead the next generation of believers.
These qualities, combined with her strong work ethic and Christian faith, make Kaylee an outstanding winner for the Donna J. Streufert Women’s Leadership Award! She has consistently demonstrated a commitment to serving others and making a positive impact on her community.
Sara Waechter (Granado), CUAA
Sara demonstrates a remarkable commitment to service, leadership, and character development. She participates in a wide range of activities from kids ministry, international student ministry and national organizations where she is consistently stepping up to lead and guide others. Sara’s desire to integrate nursing with ministry showcases her commitment to caring for the whole person – body, mind, and spirit. Those who know her say Sara is personable, a quick learner and she offers valuable ideas. She works hard towards her goals which are aligned with her faith and she aims high.
Overall, Sara’s dedication to service, collaborative spirit, and commitment to Christ make her a strong winner for the Donna J. Streufert Women’s Leadership Award!
Want in?
Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world. The vision of the Women’s Leadership Institute is to be a growing community of confident and competent Christian women leaders who serve and lead wherever God has placed them and who confront relevant issues with courage, truth, and love. In other words, to be women who shine brightly in the dark and encourage others to join in.