Nancy Bihl Rutkowski Courage Award

Hazing is a widespread societal problem existing in the military, athletics, marching bands, church groups, professional clubs, Greek organizations, performing arts, honor societies, and many other organizations. While hazing is perpetuated by groupthink and the code of silence, it can be eradicated through courage. The Nancy Bihl Rutkowski Courage Award challenges students to gain a deeper understanding of courage and write an original and creative essay demonstrating their understanding of courage.

Contribute to the Award 

Award Overview - Nominate here 

• The recipient(s) of this competitive annual award receives an award.
• Must be enrolled full-time at OWU and in good standing with the University
• Application deadline is March 10, 2023
  • Application opens February 8, 2023 
• Recipients will be announced at the Golden Bishop Awards
  • Wednesday, April 19
• All contestants will be emailed once the final recipients are selected. 
• Students can apply multiple years but cannot receive the award more than once. 
• For more information contact dmdaltor@owu.edu

Award Application Information

• Submit a 500-1,000 word essay (not including citations and bibliography) responding to one of the following prompts:
• A first-hand account of your experience exhibiting courage in the face of adversity and/or speaking out for what is right in the face of dissent. Include an analysis of the obstacles, risks, and consequences associated with the act.
• Write a letter that you would have liked to receive when you were a new member of a club, team, or organization. What would you tell them to inspire them to recognize, refuse, and/or report hazing?
• Recognize those individuals throughout history who took a strong stand on a specific issue based on their personal beliefs or convictions, regardless of the danger or threat to their personal safety and how that person’s courage has an impact on the world.
• What does courage mean to you?
• Describe a time where you missed the opportunity to act with courage. What would have changed if you had acted with courage? Include an analysis of the impact and consequences of you not acting with courage. If you went back to that time, what could have made you act with courage? 
• A letter of recommendation from an OWU faculty or staff member.