Griffiths Members Recognized as Mizzou ‘39
Two collegian members of the Griffiths Leadership Society were honored as part of the 2008 Class of Mizzou ‘39. Seniors Linden Fornoff and Nicole Niewald were recognized on Friday, Feb. 8, at the 2008 Mizzou ‘39 Banquet.
The award recognizes thirty-nine outstanding seniors for their scholarship, leadership, and service to the campus and community. Modeled after the service of those who helped found the University of Missouri, the award is presented in conjunction with the MU Founders’ Celebration.
Linden, a Biology and Classical Humanities double-major, hails from Fremont, Ne. On campus, Linden is involved with Summer Welcome, Big Brothers/Big Sisters, and the co-founder of Jolie among others. In her essay, Linden said, “I plan to serve Mizzou as a graduate by continuing to be involved with Griffiths Leadership Society. I feel that the organization is doing great things to foster communication between graduates and students.”
Nicole is a Biology and Interdisciplinary Studies student from Imperial, Mo. She is involved with Teach for America, Relay for Life, MU Pre-Medical Society, and a number of other campus and community organizations. “Through my involvement with the Griffiths Leadership Society and other organizations, I understand how important alumni involvement is to students,” Niewald stated in her application. “Some of the best career and life advice I have received has come from relationships I have with alumni such as Melodie Powell, Emmy McClelland, and Tuck Van Dyne.”
Each recipient has the opportunity to recongnize one faculty or staff mentor who has made an impact on him or her while at Mizzou. Linden recognized Etti Naveh-Benjamin, a visiting professor of psychology. Nicole selected Griffiths alumnae member Vicky Riback Wilson. “When I first met Vicky, I think she saw something in me that I did not even see. She gave me the confidence to believe in myself.”
Linden, Nicole, and the other recipients were honored on campus Feb. 8 at a banquet and again on Feb. 9 during half-time of the Mizzou vs. Texas A&M basketball game at Mizzou Arena. Congratulations, Linden and Nicole!