Each year, Housing Services has the privilege of providing financial support to resident and community assistants (RA/CAs) who have demonstrated exceptional academic and leadership performance as a student and members of our housing Redbirds. This year, three RACA Academic Scholarship Award winners were selected: Michael Severino, Kati Fuchs, and Kassidy Matykiewicz. Each student demonstrated excellence in their duties as a resident assistant (RA) and went above and beyond in fostering community and belonging on their floors.
Often described as a “ball of energy,” Fuchs brings her passion and positivity to her role as an RA at Manchester Hall. Her energetic leadership style, coupled with her strong communication skills, authentic care for her residents, and lively extracurricular schedule, all contribute to her selection as a recipient of the RACA Academic Scholarship Award.
Energetic and positive leadership: Fuchs’ enthusiasm and excitement have created a vibrant and engaging community within Manchester Hall. Her attitude and approach have turned her floor into an incredible community, fostering a welcoming and enjoyable environment for all residents.
Engagement and involvement: Fuchs’ engagement and involvement in her resident assistant role stand out. Her supervisor commented, “She is highly organized and committed to her responsibilities. She actively listens to her residents, addresses their needs, and consistently takes the initiative to create unique programs that cater to their interests. Her dedication to making her floor a personalized and comfortable space is evident through her creative programs, customized decorations, and community-building activities.”
Strong communication skills: Her supervisors and residents highly praise Fuchs’ communication skills. “She is an excellent listener and an effective communicator who ensures that her residents are well-informed and engaged,” notes her supervisor. “She keeps her residents updated on essential information through various channels, demonstrating her commitment to clear and open communication within the community.”
Genuine care for residents: Fuchs’ genuine care and concern for her residents shine through her interactions and programs. She takes the time to connect with everyone, making them feel valued and understood. Her one-on-one conversations provide a platform for residents to share their concerns, emotions, and needs, showing her commitment to providing emotional support and resources. Her approach fosters an environment where residents feel comfortable being themselves and seeking help when needed.
Balancing academics and leadership: Despite having a busy schedule with many extracurricular activities, Fuchs remains dedicated to her role as an RA. She excels academically while actively engaging in leadership opportunities on and off campus. Fuchs’ commitment to her academic and leadership responsibilities demonstrates her ability to balance her obligations effectively and contribute positively to her community.
Overall, Fuchs stands out as a passionate and dedicated RA who goes above and beyond to create a welcoming and supportive living environment for her residents. Her energetic leadership, strong communication skills, and genuine care for her community make her a deserving recipient of the Resident/Community Assistant Academic Scholarship Award.
