Applegate’s ambassadorship, assistance earn her Student Leader of the Month

Senior Rhonda Applegate has earned Baker University’s Student Leader of the Month award for October based on her excellence as a resident assistant, leadership of the student radio station, and involvement in numerous honor societies.

A native of Bolivar, Missouri, Applegate serves as a resident assistant in Irwin Hall, where she “works hard to make sure all her residents feel safe and comfortable,” according to her nominator.

Applegate’s influence on the university radio program is just as notable. She serves as the student station manager after several years as a contributing staff member.

“This has been a challenging semester for Baker’s radio program,” Applegate’s nominator said. “We have transitioned from our longtime KNBU-FM 89.7 station to an all-online format at bakerradio.org. Rhonda has been leading this effort. She has worked nonstop since the semester began to resolve numerous technical challenges that have arisen and to promote the new station website. She is also working to build the website’s content.

“This is a lot for any one person, let alone a student with other academic obligations,” Applegate’s nominator continued. “Rhonda has never complained, and she has gone above and beyond to ensure the radio station’s smooth transition. Her dedication and hard work make her ideal for this recognition.”

In addition to her radio station and residence hall duties, Applegate serves as the chapter historian for Cardinal Key, the national honor society for academic excellence and leadership, as well as being the national communications coordinator for the National Residence Hall Honorary. She also earned membership into the Phi Eta Sigma honor society as a freshman.

“Not only does Rhonda do well in her extracurriculars and work,” Applegate’s nominator said, “but she also makes sure to keep up with her classwork so she can continue to improve her skills.”