75th Annual Heart of the Walking Woman winners announced
Omaha, NE – For 75 years, College of Saint Mary (CSM) has recognized students who exemplify the values of character, leadership and service through its annual “Heart of the Walking Woman” celebration, formerly known as Queen of Hearts. This year’s virtual ceremony was held on Saturday, February 27th.
At the ceremony, Dr. Maryanne Stevens, RSM, president of College of Saint Mary, delivered the opening remarks. Stephanie Collings ’20, the 2020 Heart of the Walking Woman recipient wrote a reflection that was read aloud by Kira Oberschulte ‘23, chairwoman of the Heart of the Walking Woman Committee and student senator. Dr. Tara Knudson Carl, vice president for student development and success, introduced the finalists.
Heart of the Walking Woman finalists are selected from each class. The fourth-year finalist receives the honor of Heart of the Walking Woman recipient, and the first-year, second-year, and third-year finalists are elected as Walking Women in the Making. In a campus-wide election, students, faculty, and staff vote which finalists receive these honors.
The honor of Heart of the Walking Woman recipient went to Nicole McPhillips, fourth-year biology and chemistry major from Honey Creek, Iowa. “Throughout my past four years at College of Saint Mary, I have been given the amazing opportunity to grow and develop into the woman I am today,” said McPhillips. “Being nominated as a finalist for the Heart of the Walking Woman means that my hard work and effort in everything I do leaves a positive impact on those around me both at CSM and in the Omaha community. I am honored to stand beside the other women nominated for the Heart of the Walking Woman.”
The third-year Walking Woman in the Making was Gabby Linbrunner, education major; second-year Walking Woman in the Making was Chyna Delker, nursing major; and first-year Walking Woman in the Making was Madeline Krause, biology major.
Over 180 people participated in the 75th annual celebration. Katty Petak, senior director of alumnae relations, read the names of all of the past recipients of the Heart of the Walking Woman Award (formerly Queen of Hearts) who were present during the virtual ceremony.
The live stream of the ceremony was recorded and a copy of will be uploaded to CSM’s social media accounts later this week. Student Senate would like to thank those that attended and joined virtually.
