Graduating seniors Sierra DiCupe and James Shupp have spent their years at East Stroudsburg University with a desire to lead and serve others.
DiCupe, an exercise science major from Philadelphia, Pa., was awarded the University Leadership Award for the 2023-24 academic year. Shupp, a special education early childhood education major from Easton, Pa., was awarded the University Service Award.
The University Leadership and Service Awards are the highest non-academic honor a graduating senior can receive for their work as a leader in cocurricular activities on campus or participation in initiatives and service opportunities off campus. To be eligible, applicants must have held office or demonstrated participation in a minimum of three clubs, activities, and committees, have a grade point average of 2.6, and be in good standing.
Both award recipients were immersed in student life during their time on campus.
DiCupe was a member of the Student Government Association, serving as the internal affairs chair and most recently the vice president and the community service chair for MANA. She was a member of the Black Student Union, Latin American Association, Exercise Science Club, Pre-Physical Therapy Club, and MOAB. She was also a part of the Strategic Planning Committee, the Student Activities Association Board of Directors, Middle States Standard I Working Group, and University Senate, where she served on the executive committee.
“I believe being a leader means being a person that someone can look up to and learn from. A good leader should not only teach others, but not be afraid of learning from others as well. Being a leader is more than a title, it is how you motivate the people you work with,” DiCupe said. “Through the organizations I have been a part of during my time at ESU, I have grown in my leadership skills including resilience, confidence, and humility.”
Shupp was president of Sigma Pi Epsilon Delta; vice president of Council for Exceptional Children; vice president of Kappa Delta Pi; vice president of SPSEA; program director of the Campus Activities Board; and served as treasure for the Student Government Association.
Michelle LaBadie, an instructor in the Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation, said she watched Shupp “go from being a shy student who did not talk much, to someone willing to take on new roles when asked and someone who implemented new programs.” Shupp was highly visible on campus during his time at ESU. He attended Open Houses and the Admitted Students Celebration to help new students experience ESU; participated in STEAM days; assisted with Trunk or Treats; planned events at Stony Acres; and attended events and speakers’ series for the College of Education.
ESU awarded 941 undergraduate degrees during two commencement exercises on May 4.