Amber Welch, of Arlington, Recognized by Assumption College for Exemplary Service and Leadership

2018 May 15

On the eve of their May 13 commencement, 16 members of Assumption College's Class of 2018, including Amber Welch, of Arlington, were honored with the College's prestigious Crown and Shield Award. The Award recognizes students who have distinguished themselves throughout their tenure at the College in the areas of leadership and community service. Award recipients have protected (shield) and furthered (crown) the interests of the student body and Assumption as a whole.

"The very essence of leadership is the recognition that one has gifts and talents that can bring to life a vision that can be transformative for individuals, an institution, or society," Assumption College President Francesco C. Cesareo, Ph.D. shared with honorees and their families. "That transformation results from the ability of a leader to inspire, to help people dream of possibilities not yet imagined. Remember that leadership is not about the accumulation of power and wealth or selfish aggrandizement. Rather, it is principally meant for the building up of society by being the advocates, supporters, and defenders of the weak and the little ones against all who oppress them."

Crown and Shield recipients are nominated by faculty, staff and administration for their exemplary service and leadership. Welch earned a degree in political science and minored in international business. While at Assumption, she was co-founder and president of the Assumption College Food Recovery Network, which distributed meals to struggling families in the Worcester community. She also served as a resident assistant and head resident assistant for three years; and as a senator and academic affairs chairperson for Assumption's SGA, and as a delegate for the Worcester Student Government Association. A nominator said that Welch "stands out for her professionalism and confidence in her roles, and as an advocate for her fellow students" and that she "balances all her commitments very well, dedicates her time to all equally, and strives to leave the campus better than she found it." After graduation, she will relocate to Meridian, ID, to live and work as a paralegal or legal assistant. She hopes to attend Idaho State University law school in the fall of 2019.

"The challenge for you as you prepare to leave Assumption College and enter the next phase in your life is to continue to nurture the qualities of leadership that you have cultivated here," added President Cesareo. "As leaders formed within the Assumptionist tradition, our world needs you to bring it hope by making society a better place thereby bringing about the kingdom of God. In this way you will be a gift to others."