April 9, 2019
The Walsh senior class has named Director of Career and Experiential Education Abigail Poeske as the 2019 Terrance Portis Mentor of the Year, during the University's Servant Leadership Banquet on Sunday, April 7.
As a member of the Experiential Learning Team, Poeske fosters student career readiness and development, and provides hands-on experiences and connections to the community in ways that contribute to students' lifelong career success.
According to one of her nominators: "Abby is the epitome of the open door policy. She has continued to act like a mentor to me by reviewing and editing essays, discussing career options and going out of her way to make sure I have every opportunity available to me. She truly cares about giving every student the opportunity to grow in their respective fields."
In her current role, Poeske engages students in curricular and co-curricular experiences that lead to career competencies while preparing Walsh graduates for the workforce. Poeske brings to this position more than five years of experience nationally and internationally in community outreach, student development and experiential learning-based program coordination.
"There is no greater honor than to be recognized by students as an educator. You are why we are all here, literally, every day. But also, you’re why we love what we do. I feel better every day just knowing that you are going out in the community," said Abby Poeske during her remarks. "You are all doing incredible things and you motivate us, inspire us, challenge us, and give us hope."
Abby joined Walsh in 2016 as Director of Student Life at the University’s campus in Castel Gandolfo, Italy, and, in 2017, she was named Director of Service Learning. She earned her Master of Business Administration from Walsh University and her Bachelor of Arts in Education from The University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, where she was awarded the Buckley Public Service Scholar Award for Community Service and Academic Honors.
About the Terrance Portis Mentor of the Year Award
In 2012, Walsh University dedicated the Mentor of the Year Award in memory of past recipient Terrance Portis '08, who passed away on January 25, 2012, at the age of 27. Known for his outreach to all students, Terrance was nominated as the 2011 Mentor of the Year. The recipient of the Mentor of the Year award is nominated by the Walsh senior class for their outstanding guidance, education outside the classroom and significant contributions to their college experience.