Hanekamp Finalist for UWs Spitaleri Award

Heidi Hanekamp, from Laramie, was among seven finalists for the Rosemarie Martha Spitaleri Award as the University of Wyoming's outstanding graduating woman.

The annual award, established in 1964, recognizes a student for exhibiting the finest leadership, academic integrity and citizenship qualities.

Sarah Maze, of Ranchester, was named the Rosemarie Martha Spitaleri Award recipient, while Anthony Farmer, from Cheyenne, received the Tobin Award, as the outstanding graduating man during a recent ceremony honoring all the nominees.

Hanekamp will graduate with dual degrees in molecular biology and physiology, and minors in music and the Honors Program. She says that when she returned to UW her sophomore year, she began to take advantage of the opportunities to become a leader.

“Because of my experiences at UW, I have been able to blossom into an individual who is no longer afraid to lecture in front of a class of 60, sit as concertmaster for the Chamber Orchestra, or give a speech in front of the university president,” Hanekamp says.

A contributing nominator for Hanekamp recognizes her as a multitalented young woman.

“She has challenged herself in and out of the classroom. She knows what she wants and will pursue her goals to the best of her abilities,” the nominator says. “Heidi is more engaged in the university and local community than any other student I’ve personally encountered.”

Another nominator notes that Hanekamp is well-rounded and dedicated.

"She is not afraid to engage in all the experiences she can. Heidi has gone above and beyond the typical undergraduate requirements: becoming a teaching assistant and assisting with research,” her nominator says. “She models consistent and responsible preparation, dedication, and a consistently positive and supportive attitude.”