Outstanding Graduates 2020
Concordia University Irvine presents this award to one member of each class of graduating seniors. The honoree is chosen by vote of the faculty from a list of students who have demonstrated outstanding qualities in academic and personal achievement.
The criteria for selection are:
- Exemplary Christian lifestyle
- Active involvement in activities of the student body
- Outstanding contributions to the university community
- Academic GPA of at least 3.00
After several rounds of voting, two finalists each had an equal number of votes. When this occurred two times, it was decided that this year’s award would be shared by two graduates.
Haley Katherine Babineau
This student has consistently demonstrated dedication to her field of study in her work ethic, her application of knowledge, and her service to society. She is a true example of a servant leader; she deeply cares about others, shares her faith, and lovingly teaches children about our Savior. She exemplifies what it means to be a wise, honorable, and cultivated citizen.
Dr. Cari Chittick
Since her freshman year I could tell that she was a stellar student and a caring soul who would make an excellent teacher. I had the pleasure of teaching her again during her senior year...yet again, she proved herself to be the kind of teacher we strive to prepare: thoughtful, fair, caring, servant-minded. She is an example of what Christ does in our lives - she radiates joy and care for others.
Dr. Rebecca Stanton
When I think of this student I think of Jesus washing his disciples’ feet, and his calling for his disciples to do the same. She has demonstrated what it means to get her "hands dirty" in service to others in reflection of the One who has washed her clean. Her willingness to jump in and do any task, whether asked of her or not, no matter how big or small, reflects the standard that we hope all of our students will aspire to.
Prof. Jonathan Ruehs
She was extremely focused on learning all the content she could, so that she could become the best teacher she possibly could; this showed as she meticulously worked through details of every exercise. She was never satisfied with just an "answer" - she wanted deep understanding that would guide her in her future career. She has been the Lead CMTH Tutor for the past two years. She leads naturally, has helped nurture and mentor other tutors, and has helped countless freshmen.
Prof. Julie Melberg
She was a professional from day one. She faithfully served with a positive attitude, attention to detail, and the utmost integrity in her work.
Amy Lucker
This student is a model ambassador of Christ. She knows that she is loved by God and thus inspired/enabled to love others. Any parent and child would be ever so grateful to have her as a teacher, but her gifts include the kind of intellectual and organizational ability that would make her an excellent principal. I wish we could reproduce a million [like her].
Dr. Michael Eschelbach
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Maia Caitlin Jorgensen
She has quite the personality-always smiling and lifting others up. In academics, she is an avid participant, has a great work ethic and is beyond responsible. She is a student you wish you could have all the time. She has become an excellent marketer and I think the business background will do her very well in church work. She has a grace and humility that shows through in her actions.
Prof. Carolyn Shiery
This student is always a joy to work with. She is dedicated to putting her all into everything she does and is always willing to take on any challenge. She has a quality of genuine care and concern for others that flows naturally out of her love for Jesus and humble appreciation of experiencing His great love for her. She will be a blessing to others everywhere she goes!
Rev. Quinton Anderson
From freshman year she was eager to become part of the Concordia Community. Her kind spirit and friendly personality blessed our PAL team as she used her gifts and passions to create fond memories and meaningful impact with the freshmen students.
Kristy Fowler
When I think of someone who is passionate about reaching others for Jesus, I think of this student. The experiences she has had…have fanned the flame of her passion for being in ministry, and doing all that God has called her to do, to share the gospel with those she encounters. She demonstrates an ability to bring scholarship and practice together in order to better understand how we might best reach other culture groups with the life-saving message of Jesus' redeeming love.
Rev. Jonathan Ruehs
This student is an extraordinary Eagle who exemplifies love and compassion. I have witnessed her outstanding business ethic and initiative first-hand. She never ceases to amaze me at the amount of work she can tackle and the attention to detail she provides. She has been an incredible example to her fellow Eagles of living out the Great Commission.
Lisa Purcell
Against a strong tide of questions and uncertainties, this student followed the Lord's leading into one adventure after another during her tenure as an undergraduate. It has been a great joy to see her hear the call of God on her life and to respond to it. She humbly seeks out the advice and wisdom of mentors, and then she boldly steps into action.
Dr. John Norton
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