Mercyhurst Student Government highlights student leadership and connection at inaugural networking event

Mercyhurst Student Government (MSG) hosted its inaugural Student Leadership Celebration and Networking Night on Monday, March 16, recognizing outstanding student leaders and organizations who embody Mercyhurst’s commitment to leadership, service, and community.

Spearheaded by MSG members Margaret Apen and Maddie Worden, the event brought together many members of the Mercyhurst community for an evening of recognition and connection. It served as both an awards ceremony and a networking opportunity, highlighting the importance of student leadership in shaping the Mercyhurst experience.

"This event is not possible without our students,” said Apen. “The continuous hard work, the many extra hours, and the admirable results are the reason we celebrate."

Attendees enjoyed food and conversation, celebrating accomplishments and connecting with peers.

The celebration featured two organizational awards and three individual honors. The Ethical Purchasing Club and Hurst Volleyball Club were commended for their meaningful impact on campus, from promoting sustainability and responsible decision-making to fostering an inclusive and engaging student community.

Three student leaders received honors for their contributions: Emily Neenan (Outstanding Mentorship Award), Michael Brafi (Outstanding Leadership in Innovation Award), and John White (Outstanding Leadership in Impact Award). Each recipient was nominated by peers, advisors, and campus partners, with final selections made by a committee of student leaders and university administrators. These students were honored for their encouraging and supportive leadership.

"To our student leaders, Mercyhurst means more because of the ways you showed up for it,” said Worden. “Carry that with you, seize every opportunity that comes your way. You’ve made a lasting impact here; continue doing that for the places and people ahead.”

Beyond the awards, the evening emphasized the role of connection in student success. Student leadership at Mercyhurst shapes the culture, relationships, and sense of belonging that define the Hurst experience.

The Mercyhurst Student Government Programming Board (MSGPB) attended the event to represent their program and support the event as student leaders.

This student-led initiative reflects Mercyhurst’s continued efforts to recognize leadership more intentionally while creating spaces for collaboration across organizations. Through events like this, MSG aims to strengthen the network of student leaders who drive engagement and community on campus.

Mercyhurst’s Student Leadership Celebration and Networking Night serves as both a recognition of contributions and a reminder to continue seizing the opportunities ahead.

FEATURED PHOTO: From left to right, Ethical Purchasing Club (President Brice Hansen, Katie Vittone, and Jamie Sennett), Hurst Volleyball Club (President Angelina Sabella and Vice President Sophie Smietana), Emily Neenan, John White, and Micheal Brafi.

FIRST PHOTO: MSG spearheads Margaret Apen and Maddie Worden.

SECOND PHOTO: From top left to right, Precious Adimabua; Carly Chapman; Chairs of MSG Maddie Worden and Abby Bender; and Shannon Kersten. From bottom left to right, Alaina Montgomery, Emilia Herdocia, Liv Seegert, Sam McNeish, and Anna Zambito.