Heart of the Walking Woman winners announced

Omaha, NE – For more than 70 years, College of Saint Mary 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 ceremony was held on Friday, February 23. Dr. Maryanne Stevens, RSM, president of College of Saint Mary, delivered the welcome.  Reflecting on the Walking Woman, Dr. Stevens said it symbolizes the branding of College of Saint Mary and praised the Heart of the Walking Woman finalists, who “walk boldly into the future as leaders with heart” and are “women of character.” 

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.

Shabnam Waheed was given the honor of Heart of the Walking Woman Recipient.  Shabnam Waheed is a biology major from Omaha, NE.  Very active on campus, Shabnam has been a member of the Math and Science Club, Green Team, and Students for Justice.  She tutors on campus, is a Leadership Launch graduate from 2016, is on the Dean’s list, and was a Presidential Ambassador.  Shabnam currently serves as the Omaha Sisters of Mercy Social Justice Intern, has been involved in various political campaigns, and uses her medical knowledge as a volunteer for many Omaha services.

Among third-year students, Katie Golka was chosen as the Walking Woman in the Making.  Katie is an English education major from Grand Island, NE.  Offering many of her talents around campus, Katie is a member of the tennis team, the Student Education Association of Nebraska, the Student Orientation Staff, the Campus Activities Board, and Student Senate.  She is on the Dean’s list, is a Leadership Launch graduate from 2016, and volunteers much of her time in the Omaha community.

Second-year Walking Woman in the Making was Liana Naquila.  Liana is an occupational therapy major from Pine Bluff, AR.  Liana participates in CSM choir and the Campus Ministry’s alternative break trips.  She is a member of SOTA, the Green Team, the Campus Activities Board, and Student Senate.  She is also on the Dean’s list.

First-year Heart of the Walking Woman was Elaundra Nichols.  Elaundra is an occupational therapy major from Omaha, NE.  Elaundra is a member of the Honor’s program, serves on Student Senate, and is the Multicultural Student Assistant in the Student Leadership Office.  She also volunteers much of her time in the Omaha community.