|
College is a time when many people increase their involvement with and
understanding of the world around them. Over the past year, T. Rhyker
Benavidez has done just this: he has emerged from his somewhat
introverted shell, engaged with people and ideas around him, and grown
as a student-leader. Although this transformation has been occurring for
some time, never has Rhyker shone more brightly as an inspiring,
welcoming, and truly life-changing role model than during the month of
March. The vast degree to which Rhyker contributed to student life this past
month is simply astonishing! Rhyker applied for several leadership
positions, including Integrity Council (a group dedicated to promoting
academic integrity) and the LGBTQ Program Advisory Board (a group
dedicated to planning events for the queer campus community).
Furthermore, Rhyker applied to be a Resident Adviser. He excelled in
the Resident Adviser Training Class and was thrilled for the opportunity
to impact the freshman experience. Furthermore, Rhyker volunteered with
Savor Latina de OU (Latino Flavor of OU), a cultural celebration
including food and music. Rhyker set up decorations, served food, and
interacted with many students. Rhyker also spent March embracing diversity, which is something he has
grown to love in recent months. He participated in Queer Night at the
Huff, a chance for GLBTF students to learn kick-boxing and other
exercise techniques in a safe and supportive environment. After the
event Rhyker introduced himself to fellow participants and talked with
them for over a hour about the coming out process, perceptions of the
GLBT community, and gender-neutral housing. In addition, Rhyker
celebrated Ally Week by wearing his Sooner Ally shirt around campus.
Sooner Ally is a program in which students, faculty, and staff are
trained to provide resources to GLBTQ students and promote an accepting
campus environment. Recognition also played a key role in why Rhyker was so outstanding in
March. Rhyker found information online about an award he thought fit
one of our friends. Rhyker was so enthusiastic about recognizing our
friend for all her contributions to campus that he could hardly contain
himself! Rhyker compiled a list of activities the nominee has
contributed to and is in the process of preparing a heartfelt nomination. At my RA program Rhyker stood out as one of the most amazing individuals
I have ever had the privilege of knowing! A gelato and craft night, the
program took place after a GLBTF meeting Rhyker attended with people he
met at Queer Night at the Huff. At the meeting he met an individual who
is transitioning from male to female. Rhyker invited her to the event
despite just met her a few minutes previously. For the duration of the
event--they stayed for over 4 hours--Rhyker made sure she felt included
and at ease. He stayed with his new friend the entire program and
introduced her to others. Later Rhyker found out that this was the
first time his new friend had felt comfortable and accepted while
dressed as a woman in public. I fully credit Rhyker with making this
possible! I can honestly say that I have seen precious few individuals
make such a dedicated and inspiring effort to love those around them no
matter how different the person may be. For these reasons and many more, throughout the month of March T. Rhyker
Benzvidez demonstrated that he is a truly exceptional student when it
comes to getting involved on campus, embracing diversity, and inspiring
others. Rhyker is a true friend to everyone he meets, and his actions
speak volumes to his outstanding personal character. What an inspiring
role model for us all! Word Count: 600
|