Marissa Kunes and Evan Hodkinson have been honored with the 2024-25 Service Above Self Awards at Mount Vernon Nazarene University's 65th Commencement ceremonies on May 3. The awards celebrate graduating seniors who have demonstrated exceptional service to others during their college careers, embodying MVNU's motto: "To seek to learn is to seek to serve."
Marissa Kunes, a Chemistry major with a pre-med concentration, has been actively involved in various service activities. Her contributions include leading belong groups, participating in community service trips to Guyana with FaithWorks, and volunteering at Starting Point Pregnancy and Family Resource Center. Additionally, she held leadership roles as captain of the Women’s Reserve soccer team and co-president of the Chemistry Club.
Dr. Carrie Beal, Professor of Biology at MVNU, remarked on Kunes' dedication: “In the global community, Marissa is actively involved in service opportunities. At MVNU, she is a student worker in the Counseling center. She’s intentional in helping her peers feel welcome, respected, and seen.”
Evan Hodkinson has also made significant contributions during his time at MVNU as a Biology major with a pre-med concentration. His involvement includes leadership roles such as belong group leader and team captain for both the men’s cross-country team and track and field team. He also served as class president during his freshman and sophomore years.
Dr Paul Madtes Jr., Professor of Biology at MVNU, praised Hodkinson's commitment: “Just as Jesus is a servant, so too, Evan is learning to be a servant at the deepest level of his heart... His service enabled both faculty and students to experience a learning environment that was exceptional.”
Both awardees exemplify MVNU's mission through their dedication to serving others both within their academic community and beyond.
