Fox Cities News

University of Wisconsin Oshkosh (UWO) recently announced the recipients of the 2023 UWO Community Engagement Scholarship awards, recognizing students who have shown outstanding dedication to volunteer work and community service. Rita Nwaogaraku, Zachary Zirgibel, and Zoe Simpson were honored for their exceptional contributions to various community projects.

Mike Lueder, the director of UWO Center for Civic and Community Engagement, commended the awardees, stating, “They have found areas they are passionate about and truly given themselves to supporting that mission.” Lueder expressed his hope that more UWO students could learn from their examples and follow in their footsteps.

Rita Nwaogaraku, a sophomore nursing major, shared her motivation for volunteering, saying, “I grew up in a family where helping others was like a norm.” Nwaogaraku's volunteer work has provided her with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations in her community, enriching her life and equipping her with valuable skills for her future endeavors as a nurse.

Zach Zirgibel, a junior biomedical science major, spoke about his experiences volunteering with Habitat for Humanity and working with young people in a refeeding center during his spring break in Honduras. Zirgibel emphasized the importance of giving back to the community, noting, “Meeting Nadia inspired me to look for ways in my own community in which I could give back and hopefully bring a little laughter and to help others.”

Zoe Simpson, a sophomore radiology major, reflected on her community-based learning experience with student refugees at Vel Phillips Middle School in Oshkosh. Simpson described how she took on the role of a mentor and tutor, gaining a new perspective on the challenges faced by refugees and appreciating the resilience and determination of the young students she worked with.

The dedication and passion exhibited by Rita Nwaogaraku, Zachary Zirgibel, and Zoe Simpson exemplify the spirit of community engagement championed by UWO. Their commitment to helping others and making a positive impact in their communities serve as an inspiration to their peers and future generations of UWO students.