Six students who are employed in jobs designed to provide meaningful experiences and opportunities for growth in the West Virginia University Division of Student Life are the recipients of Herman L. Moses Scholarship.
The recipients, supported by their work supervisors, demonstrate strong leadership ability and have made a positive impact on their fellow students and the units that they serve.
"These students are exemplary both inside and outside of the classroom,” said Dean of Student Corey Farris. “We’re honored that these students work within the division of Student Life and are making a difference every day. It’s a privilege to present this scholarship and we are excited to celebrate them and their accomplishments.”
Kenneth Farmer is a junior graphic design major from Beckley who serves as a front desk assistant at the Evansdale Residential Complex.
In this role, Farmer works to establish a welcoming environment by answering questions and greeting students and other visitors in a friendly manner during move-in and move-out days and throughout the semester. He also provides information on campus resources and responds to emergencies and other situations requiring immediate attention.
“This job has taught me about professionalism and being more patient,” Farmer said. “I have become more empathic towards students in need of assistance and developed a passion for helping others.”
Abagail George is a junior fashion merchandising major from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, who serves as an advertising and marketing consultant for Prospect and Price Creative.
In this role, she conducts comprehensive market analysis and studies effective strategies to improve The Daily Athenaeum’s competitive edge. Following her research, she develops competitive solution strategies to improve the brand image and customer loyalty to help expand the target audience. She strives for long-term improvement and success of the college newspaper.
“The opportunity to talk to local business owners daily has pushed me out of my comfort zone and has helped me improve my interpersonal communication skills,” George said. “I feel more confident and believe in my ability to succeed in my future career.”
Romerra Hackett is a junior sociology major minoring in psychology and medical humanities and health studies from Morgantown who serves as a resident assistant for Dadisman and Stalnaker Halls.
In this role, she works to foster student engagement and a sense of community among her residents. She helps maintain the Student Code of Conduct and provides information on academic and mental health resources, among several other duties. Hackett implemented a group chat to provide students with information on important campus announcements and a platform to discuss sensitive topics.
“Working with a diverse group of students has pushed me to become more empathic, compassionate and open-minded,” Hackett said. “Helping students transition to college life and serving as a mentor during difficult times has led me to pursue a future career in social work."
Rachel Johnson is a public relations major from Princeton who works as a graduate assistant for WVU Arts and Entertainment
In this role, she helps plan and execute student-focused events such WVUp All Night, Mountaineer Week and FallFest. She has conducted focus groups and other research on WVUp All Night program development and evaluation. Johnson also manages and creates content for the Arts and Entertainment social media platforms.
“I have learned how to work in highly stressful and complicated situations while always keeping student engagement and satisfaction at the forefront,” Johnson said. “This is my fourth year working with Student Life and I am truly grateful for every connection made and opportunity given to me.”
Christiane Pisano is a junior physical education major from Congers, New York, who works at the Mountainlair Information Center, better known as the information desk.
In this role, she assists students, faculty, staff and other visitors in a positive and friendly manner. She provides information on campus events and activities and directions to buildings and other various locations around the campus community. Pisano also addresses emergency situations as needed. Helping new and international students navigate campus during the first few weeks of the semester has been one of the most rewarding experiences for Pisano.
“This job has given me the opportunity to interact with a diverse group of people almost every day,” Pisano said. ‘This experience has helped me improve my customer service and time management skills and both will be beneficial in my future career as an educator.”
Azimbek Turakhonov is a senior health and well-being major from Morgantown who serves as a leader for First-Year Trips and Guided Trips with Adventure WV.
In this role, Turakhonov plans adventure-based experiences to help incoming freshman and other students connect with their peers and have fun. He has created guidebooks, maps and safety protocols to ensure students are well-prepared for their hiking, kayaking, camping and other excursions. Turakhonov also creates individualized meal plans for students with health and dietary restrictions.
“This job has allowed me to gain hands-on experience in a field that I feel passionate about,” said Turakhonov. “It has also given me an opportunity to give back to my community by contributing to positive learning and other student experiences.”
The annual scholarship was established by the family of the late Dr. Carl R. Adkins in honor of long-time student life administrator Herman Moses who devoted 36 years of his professional life to working with WVU students and their families before retiring in 2003.