Elizabeth Olenchalk, California State University, Fresno

Elizabeth Olenchalk is a third year student at California State University, Fresno. During her time here at Fresno State, she has emerged as a passionate, committed leader of community service and engagement efforts. For the past two years, Elizabeth has been an instrumental member of Fresno State’s Alternative Spring Break (ASB) program. Through ASB, Elizabeth has recruited, trained, and mentored many of her fellow students in service to others. In addition, she has engaged other students in service to the American Cancer Society, and each week she mentors at-risk youth through the local Every Neighborhood Partnership Saturday Sports Program. Elizabeth is working towards her minor in Urban Civic Education, which prepares students to become change agents that seek to address community issues. The program includes a significant service requirement in urban education settings. Elizabeth is a true servant-leader, whose positive attitude and infectious energy has propelled many of her fellow students into deeper commitments to service. She is also a thoughtful servant, who seeks long-term solutions to complicated community issues. President Joseph I. Castro, California State University, Fresno