The 2025 Crescam Serviendo Award Winners Are…
(L-R, top to bottom) Leila Vessey, Lara Athena Reyes and Rohini Patra stand in the first row; Minla Stokes, Seavey van Walsum and Alex Teschow in the second; and Katrina Eilender, Diana Vink, Sara Qadoumi and Juhyung Yun in the third. (Photo by Cher Yan)
By Samantha Chater
“Crescam serviendo” translates roughly as “I will grow through service.”
The Crescam Serviendo Awards recognize Victoria College students who have gone above and beyond to make a positive impact on the College community. Students in elected or appointed positions must exceed traditional expectations of their role, with the focus being on the quality of service rather than the quantity.
The Office of the Dean of Students received 44 nominations from students, staff and faculty, matching last year’s record.
"Victoria students never cease to amaze me with their ability to balance academics while taking on meaningful volunteer roles,” Victoria University President Dr. Rhonda McEwen said in a recorded video at the Crescam Serviendo Awards Ceremony on March 13. “You dive into opportunities that matter to you, explore your passions and build connections that make this campus such a vibrant and inspiring place.”
The 2025 Crescam Serviendo Award recipients are:
Katrina Eilender is a co-founder of the Shabbat at Vic club, she also helped launch the Victoria College community garden. Nominators described her as “truly selfless.”
Rohini Patra was recognized for being orientation co-chair and an academic commissioner. Nominators described her as a person who makes other people feel like they belong.
Sara Qadoumi participated in Vic as a Caffiends volunteer and manager and photo and design editor for The Strand. Nominators called her the embodiment of empathy, community service and passion.
Lara Athena Reyes took part in Vic as the office manager for the Victoria University Students’ Administrative Council (VUSAC), a member of the Orientation Executive, VUSAC vice president internal and a commuter don. Nominators called her an integral part of the Vic community.
Minla Stokes participated in Vic as a residence don, building president, member of the Victoria College Athletic Association, an orientation leader, transition mentor to help students navigate university life and president of the Vic Bachata (dance) Club. Nominators spoke of her ability to connect with others and make people feel seen.
Alex Teschow was recognized for being an orientation leader, a member of the Orientation Executive, director of the Bob Sketch Comedy Revue and a mentor for Theatre for Thought. Nominators called him a powerhouse and an inspiration.
Seavey van Walsum participated in Vic as a residence don. Nominators called them an outstanding teammate.
Leila Vessey has been a commuter don, building president and Victoria College Drama Society chief financial officer. Nominators described her as an exceptional and invaluable member of the Vic community.
Diana Vink is a two-time VUSAC equity commissioner and co-president of the "Acta Victoriana" literary journal. Nominators described her as being a welcoming and positive presence.
Juhyung Yun is the VUSAC president and has also been the VUSAC commuter commissioner and a member of the Orientation Executive. Nominators describe her as the most welcoming presence in every room.