Qi Wang, (Angel) a student at Crowder College, Neosho, pictured center, was presented the Crowder College Professional Staff Association Leadership Award at a recent Crowder Board meeting. At her left is Greg Jackson, leadership award committee chairman; to her right is Jeff Elwood, PSA president. The award honors a student who displays leadership qualities both in and out of the classroom. Wang, an international student since the spring 2009 will graduate spring 2011 with two associate degrees in business and music. She currently has a 4.0 GPA. Wang is involved in Phi Theta Kappa serving as secretary and treasurer. She has participated in several community service activities and is a math tutor in the Academic Resource Center. A talented pianist, she recently won first prize in an international talent show at Missouri State University. She also is a member of several choir groups on campus and assists students with music theory and piano. According to Suzanne Hurt, international student coordinator, Wang could not speak a word of English when she arrived on campus. She entered the Crowder English Language Institute program while attempting a major in business and music.

"To overcome major obstacles such as language, American teaching methods, cultural differences and lack of family support, she has proven to her peers she can rise above and achieve her dreams," Hurt said.