President's Award for Leadership
The President's Award for Leadership recognizes a student who embodies our leadership value statement: "We inspire the leadership needed for all individuals to boldly push everyday boundaries while serving others."
Isobel Bowker
B.S. Mechanical Engineering
Isobel is majoring in Mechanical Engineering with a minor in Alternative Energy Technology. She has held numerous roles across campus including working as rink staff for Broomball, as an Orientation Team Leader for the Wahtera Center, and as a Student Engineer for the Keweenaw Research Center. Isobel has also been involved in key student activities such as the LeaderShape Institute, Alternative Spring Break, and the Huskies Pep Band.
Isobel’s most consistent activity on campus, however, has been with the Undergraduate Student Government. She began as a College of Engineering Representative during her freshman year. That spring, she was elected as the Secretary, a position she then held for two years. In this role, Isobel was a steady, reliable presence, always completing her responsibilities with dedication and critical reflection. One of her notable achievements was spearheading the initiative to expand access to free menstrual products across campus through the installation of Aunt Flow dispensers and an initial purchase of supplies.
In the 2024-2025 academic year, Isobel initially decided to take a step back on USG to allow younger members the opportunity to serve. However, when the Treasurer unexpectedly resigned, and no eligible candidates were available to step in, Isobel rose to the occasion. Allocating the Student Activity Fee is one of the core functions of USG. Without Isobel's willingness to become Treasurer and her competence in filling the role, student organizations across campus would have experienced delayed services and reduced access to funding. Instead, Isobel proved to be exemplary and ensured that all groups had the resources necessary to thrive.
Isobel shared, “In all of my endeavors, I have tried to serve as a leader through my actions and words, regardless of the role I may have held in the organization. Through these experiences, I have learned that leadership is a constant, intentional practice, and not an easy one.” Isobel consistently rose to the challenge.
Provost's Award for Scholarship
The Provost's Award for Scholarship is given to a senior who best represents student scholarship at Michigan Tech. This outstanding student is considered excellent, not only by academic standards, but also for participation in research, scholarship activity, levels of intellectual curiosity, creativity, and communication skills.
Micaela Geborkoff
B.S. Medical Laboratory Science
Micaela is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Sciences with a minor
in International Spanish. She has distinguished herself not only as a top student,
but as a dedicated researcher, educator, and leader.
While still in high school, Micaela excelled in Michigan Tech’s Anatomy & Physiology
courses as a dual-enrolled student, standing out in a class of over 150, most of whom
were college sophomores. This early success, coupled with her passion for human health,
led her to work alongside Dr. Thomas Werner as a research assistant. Her work in Dr.
Werner’s lab on the viability of chemical probes has earned her co-authorship on three
publications in respected scientific journals, with three additional manuscripts currently
under review.
Micaela went on to work in Dr. Rao’s lab this past summer investigating a potential
chemotherapy treatment for triple-negative breast cancer. This experience grew her
foundational knowledge of oncology research, which prepared her for participating
in the Rogel Cancer Center Pathways to Careers in Cancer Care and Research Undergraduate
Fellowship.
In addition to her research accomplishments, Micaela has demonstrated a deep commitment
to the academic community. She has been an invaluable resource for her peers, serving
as a coach at the Biology Learning Center and co-instructor for Michigan Tech’s MCAT
review course. Her leadership extends beyond the classroom, as she actively contributes
to the local and campus communities as a volunteer EMT with Michigan Tech’s Emergency
Medical Services and as president of the Michigan Tech Well-Being Advocates.
Micaela’s international experience studying abroad in Norway and her involvement with
various community initiatives only enhance the global perspective she brings to her
work. She is also a passionate advocate for rural healthcare, inspired by her experiences
growing up in Chassell and her volunteer work as an EMT. Her desire to practice medicine
in rural communities, where access to healthcare is often limited, drives her forward.
Throughout her undergraduate journey, Micaela has maintained an impressive GPA, earning
her a place on the Dean’s List every semester. Her academic excellence, coupled with
her leadership and service, make her a truly deserving recipient of this prestigious
award.
Dean of Students Award for Service
The Dean of Students Award for Possibilities recognizes a student who embodies our possibilities value statement: "We inspire the exploration and creation of all possibilities through innovative use of our skills and knowledge."
Jasper John Gustafson
B.S. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Jasper has spent hundreds of hours serving as a part of Michigan Tech's Emergency Medical Services, where his leadership and commitment to service have had a profound impact. As a lieutenant, he not only takes charge in every emergency, but he also creates an environment where his peers feel heard, respected, and supported. He actively seeks improvement through acceptance and understanding, valuing feedback from his squad and other leadership members to foster a more inclusive and effective team.
In addition to his role as a lieutenant, Jasper dedicated his summer to supporting MTU EMS as an intern. He worked tirelessly to ensure that the agency was well-prepared for the fall semester, organizing, collaborating with public safety, and putting in countless hours behind the scenes to ensure the program’s success. Jasper’s work has made MTU EMS a more efficient, responsive, and inclusive service for the entire campus community.
Jasper’s unwavering dedication to service, his ability to lead with empathy and humility, and his commitment to improving the Michigan Tech community represent the true spirit of this award.