Edris Leadership Award is "humbling"

The Edris Naval Leadership Award recognizes Naval ROTC students who demonstrate outstanding leadership. William Voellmecke was last spring's recipient, and he shared with us how this honor has impacted him.

How was your time at Ohio State?
Ohio State gave me a good foundation for my future in different ways. First, my bachelor's degree gave me the educational background and qualifications to pursue a career that could add value to the world in some way. More importantly, what I learned outside of the classroom was essential to my development of who I am. Working towards graduation, I met many people and encountered various situations that shaped my mindset to what it is today. As is with all life experiences, some were good and some were bad, but what is most important is how I was able to learn from my experiences and educate myself to make decisions founded in knowledge and sound judgment.

As an alumni, how has the Edris Leadership Scholarship impacted you?
The Edris Leadership Scholarship allowed me to have an easier time financially my senior year at Ohio State. More importantly however, was how humbling it was to be recognized with this award. Included with the scholarship was a Naval Officer's Sword which was meant to honor the namesake of the award, Commander Richard Edris, who gave his life in service to his country. His family established the scholarship fund to continue CDR Edris' tradition of selfless service to others. The greatest impact of the award was how it strengthened my appreciation for those who live to serve others.

What does your future look like?
For a while I was a Naval Officer assisting in administrative and supply issues at the Navy ROTC Unit at Ohio State. However, in Decemeber I reported to Naval Flight School and am working toward qualifying as a Naval Aviator.

If you would like to award a Buckeye leader, please contact Leslie Kreinberg at kreinberg.3@osu.edu or at 614-247-6600