Romanek Finalist for Award that Honors UWs Top Graduate

Zane Romanek, of Douglas, was among seven finalists for the 2017 Tobin Memorial Award as the University of Wyoming’s outstanding graduating man.

The annual award is based on academic excellence and achievement, service to the university, participation and leadership in the community and campus activities, and citizenship qualities.

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

Romanek will graduate with a degree in music education.

Romanek says that being president of UW’s chapter of the National Association for Music Education taught him to lead with selflessness, provide communication, and create professional relationships with colleagues and mentors.

“I pursued a position as a youth worker with the Cathedral Home for Children to become a better teacher and leader,” Romanek says. “This was a life-changing experience that taught me how to help make an impact on future generations.”

A nominator recognizes Romanek as an outstanding student who modified the thoughts of the people around him.

“While all of our students are exceptional in their own way, every so often one is so outstanding that it modifies the way one thinks. Zane is one of those extraordinary students. He is intelligent, ambitious and always willing to go beyond what is required,” the nominator says. “Zane is an outstanding role model and friend to younger students as well as his peers, and he is dependable and trustworthy in regard to all who work with him.”

Another nominator says Romanek is extremely competent and capable.

“Zane understands the need for music educators to help students explore the multiple meanings of music in their lives,” the nominator says. “Zane has demonstrated strength academically, professionally and musically. Beyond his strong work ethic and abilities musically, he is an outstanding human being. One could find no better person with whom to work.”