Avery Reidel, Augusta, and Joseph Kasongo, Lubumbashi, D.R. Congo, received the Fran Jabara Award at Southwestern College Commencement exercises Sunday, May 10.

Reidel graduated summa cum laude (with highest honors) with a bachelor of arts degree in mathematics, a minor in Leadership, and a secondary licensure in mathematics.  Kasongo graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor of science degree in computer digital arts with emphasis in computer science and a minor in mathematics.

[PHOTO—Joseph Kasongo and Avery Reidel were named winners of the Fran Jabara Award at Southwestern College’s Commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 10.]

The Fran Jabara Award is presented to encourage the spirit of entrepreneurship and excellence in its recipients.  Jabara, an Oklahoma State University and Wichita State University graduate, was an advocate of the American free enterprise system and founded the Center for Entrepreneurship at WSU in 1977. He established an award for student leaders at Southwestern College in 2002.

Reidel was a member of the volleyball team and the Leadership team.  Highly respected on campus, she was voted a 2026 Masterbuilder.

“Avery is one of the most dependable and hardworking students I've worked with in the education division,” says Mark Whitener, Education Division Chair.  ”She always endeavors excellence in everything she attempts. Not only does she achieve at high levels, but she is a genuinely kind person who truly cares about teaching and learning. Avery is one of the best.”

Reidel has accepted a Graduate Assistant position with the SC volleyball coaching staff and she will be staying at Southwestern College to work on her Master’s degree.

Kasongo, a Bishop Scholar, was a member of the discipleship team and he has been a leader on the worship outreach and chapel team. He lifts spiritual formation as an exceedingly gifted musician. He also has worked and served as a counselor at Camp Horizon, a great plains United Methodist camp -- where he’s put many of his innate gifts and abilities to work, engaging the light of Christ with campers.

“Joseph has been one of the best students I've ever had,” says Jackson Lashier, director of Discipleship and professor of religious studies.  “He is intelligent, kind, and faithful. He was honored with the Towel and Basin award for Discipleship this year which is selected by his fellow students for the person who most embodies Christ's example of love and service and Joseph definitely embodies this. Joseph is going to do amazing things in this world and we have been privileged to have him with us these past four years.”

Kasongo has chosen to stay to complete his master’s degree at Southwestern College. He will serve as the graduate assistant to the Discipleship team beginning in the fall.

Reidel and Kasongo each received a plaque and a cash award.

“Today we honor these two Moundbuilders who have demonstrated the spirit of leadership during their time as students, exemplified in the life of the man who instituted this award,” said Southwestern College President Liz Frombgen.  “Two students who have truly been leaders during their college years, who have made our campus stronger through their presence, and we know will serve the communities they call home with dedication and grace.”