By Shyat M. Lemoshira

Fresher Diana Awuor, was awarded the Community Service Award 2023 for being an all-rounded student who exemplified the university’s core values within the community during the 45th Commencement ceremony which took place on Saturday, October 14.

“I am truly honored to receive this community service award from the university. It's been a privilege to contribute to our community, and I'm grateful for the recognition, thank you for this meaningful acknowledgment of my efforts,” said Fresher Awuor.

Graduating with a B.A in International Relations, Fresher Awuor served under various capacities in the Spoken Arts and Debate Society (SADS) during her time in USIU-Africa. She led SADS to compete in the Africa Top Universities Debate 2022 in which they were awarded the Sportsmanship Awards in Africa. She has also been instrumental in other debate events such as the Accra Open Championship in Ghana 2022, the Elle Parle Women’s Championship 2023, Nairobi Schools Open Debate 1st and 2nd Edition and many more.

Additionally, during her tenure, SADS raised Ksh. 300,000 and secured approved sponsors to fund their activities outside of Kenya which portrayed USIU-Africa as a remarkable university offering high-quality academic programs and co-curricular activities.

Fresher Awuor also served as a representative of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS) in the USIU-Africa Electoral College 2022/23 as well as greatly contributed in planning the International Mother Language Day conference, hosted by the Department of Languages and Literature under SHSS.

Moreover, she was an active member and supporter of the USIU-Africa Sign Language Club where she contributed to the University’s effort to embrace Persons with Disabilities and their interaction with fellow students, faculty, and staff in partnership with the USIU-Africa Persons with Disabilities Office and Students Affairs department.

Her selflessness and hard work has left an indelible mark in this beloved institution and community. Ms. Awuor has proven to be a vivid USIU-Africa ambassador and hallmark of encouragement to other students to exemplify the spirit of service and explore opportunities to volunteer and serve the university whether through sports, clubs, the Student Association Cabinet (SAC) event committees, various departments and divisions.