Walsh University is delighted to announce the T.O.W.E.R. of Excellence Award finalists. The T.O.W.E.R. of Excellence is the most prestigious non-academic award given each year. Presented annually at the President’s Dinner, the award recognizes seniors or recent graduates who embody each of these characteristics:
Talented Leadership (Demonstration of Leadership Activities and Qualities)
Outstanding Dedication to the Campus and Community
Walsh Commitment to Current and Future Cavaliers
Embodies Core Values of Faith, Excellence, Integrity, Service and Community
Responsible Extra-curricular Distinction
Hannah Blawas
Audrey Dornisch
Isabella Genovese
Olivia Huzyak
Antonio Paganelli
Hannah Blawas is an exceptional Walsh University senior whose life of faith, academic excellence, and service-driven leadership captures the heart of the Walsh University mission. A Biology pre-professional major with a Chemistry minor, Hannah maintains a perfect 4.0 GPA while actively contributing to the Honors Program through advanced research and her thesis in molecular biology.
Hannah’s leadership is rooted in example, living out her belief that the most powerful way to lead is through action, authenticity, and joy. As a Resident Assistant, Bible study leader, and worship violinist for Ignite Nights, she fosters a vibrant, faith-centered community where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired. Her commitment to spiritual integrity is evident in the way she aligns her daily actions with her faith, encouraging others to pursue truth, goodness, and purpose.
Her impact is especially profound in academic mentorship. Serving as a tutor, Teacher’s Assistant, and Academic Success Coach, Hannah has guided countless students through complex subjects while instilling confidence and curiosity. She views education not simply as knowledge acquisition, but as an invitation to discover the beauty of God’s creation through science.
Beyond campus, Hannah’s dedication to service continues through her work with the Canton Parenting and Pregnancy Center, her role as a nursing assistant, and her lifelong commitment to serving others through her church community. Whether assisting patients, mentoring peers, or leading worship, she approaches each role with enthusiasm and compassion.
Inspired by the tradition of the Catholic Church and Catholic social justice teaching, Hannah embraces a lifelong pursuit of truth and service. Her time at Walsh reflects a deep understanding that meaningful impact is not measured by recognition, but by faithfully using one’s gifts to serve others.
Audrey Dornisch is a dynamic and thoughtful leader whose Walsh University experience reflects a deep commitment to faith, community, and purpose-driven leadership. A Finance major with a minor in Data Analytics in the DeVille School of Business, Audrey has paired strong academic performance with meaningful engagement that bridges business, service, and mission.
As President of The Garage, Walsh’s entrepreneurship organization, Audrey reimagined student leadership by cultivating a culture of shared ownership and accountability. She launched initiatives such as a campus pitch competition and WU Launchpad, empowering students to explore creativity through business and innovation. Her leadership philosophy, grounded in humility, action, and elevating others has shaped her peers and organizations she has served.
Audrey’s commitment to community impact extends beyond campus. Through her work with the Blouin program, she assisted in research, grant coordination, and data analysis that highlight the transformative effects of stable homeownership. Her involvement with Lighthouse Ministries as a business mentor further reflects her passion for developing the potential of others, particularly young students learning entrepreneurship.
A member of Campus Ministry and the Blouin Scholars Program, Audrey integrates faith into all aspects of her life. She views leadership as a call to live with spiritual integrity ensuring her actions, relationships, and decisions consistently reflect her values. Whether guiding prospective students as a senior tour guide or fostering meaningful conversations with peers, she strives to affirm the dignity of every person she encounters.
Audrey’s impact at Walsh is both tangible and relational, seen in the programs she has built and the people she has influenced. Her time at Walsh reflects creativity, faith-filled leadership, and a commitment to using her gifts in service of others.
Isabella Genovese is an inspiring Walsh University student whose leadership, compassion, and commitment to others have made a profound impact on the campus community. A first-generation college student pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science through an accelerated pathway into a Master of Occupational Therapy program, Isabella exemplifies student excellence.
As President of the Pre-Occupational Therapy Club and Active Minds, she expanded engagement, built inclusive communities, and created programming centered on mental health, professional development, and service. Under her leadership, Active Minds grew significantly, fostering a space for students navigating mental health challenges. She also served as Internal Director for Cavathon, coordinating large-scale fundraising efforts in support of Akron Children’s Miracle Network.
Her commitment to service is deeply personal. Isabella has volunteered extensively with Special Olympics Ohio Young Athletes, nursing home residents, and campus initiatives, consistently advocating for the dignity of every individual. Her impact is especially evident in her quiet but powerful support of peers, personally walking fellow students to counseling services and ensuring they feel seen, supported, and not alone.
Faith is the foundation of Isabella’s leadership. As a Bible study founder and co-leader within her graduate cohort, she has created space for authentic conversation, reflection, and spiritual growth among students of diverse backgrounds. She views leadership not as recognition, but as an opportunity to enact meaningful change through empathy, humility, and service.
Through her clinical, research, and service experiences, Isabella is preparing to serve vulnerable populations as an occupational therapist, with a particular calling to support individuals affected by trauma and hardship. Her time at Walsh is one of presence, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to uplifting others.
Olivia Marie Huzyak is a compassionate and faith-driven nursing student whose commitment to servant leadership and holistic care embodies the mission of Walsh University. Pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Nursing through the Byers School of Nursing and a member of the Honors Program, Olivia integrates academic excellence with a deep dedication to serving others.
Olivia’s leadership is rooted in presence, empathy, and intentional service. As a Walsh University Peacemaker, she lives among first-year students, providing academic, personal, and spiritual mentorship during one of the most formative transitions in their lives. Through her role as a Cav Cor Leader, she continues to foster community, guide new students, and strengthen campus engagement through meaningful relationships.
Service is central to Olivia’s impact. She has led initiatives such as “Delivering Hope,” creating encouragement cards for survivors of domestic violence, and has served consistently through Campus Ministry, the Adoration Team, and Honors service projects. Her approach to volunteerism reflects a belief that even small acts of compassion can restore dignity and hope.
Olivia’s faith is the foundation of her leadership. She strives to live with spiritual integrity, choosing to act with compassion, humility, and authenticity in every interaction. Whether supporting peers or creating welcoming campus spaces through Student Activities, she is committed to fostering a community where every individual is valued.
Olivia’s time at Walsh reflects intentional presence and always leading with a servant’s hear.
Antonio M. Paganelli is a standout Walsh University senior whose commitment to servant leadership, faith, and excellence has made a lasting impact on the campus community. A Business Management major, Antonio has distinguished himself not only through academic achievement, but through a deeply rooted belief that leadership begins with humility, growth, and service to others.
Originally drawn to Walsh through athletics, Antonio’s experience quickly evolved into a broader mission shaped by faith and purpose. As President of the Business Club, Resident Assistant, and Captain of the Men’s Soccer team, he has consistently modeled a leadership style grounded in learning, integrity, and elevating those around him. He led efforts to relaunch Walsh’s Career & Internship Fair, creating meaningful opportunities for over 200 students and 70 employers.
Antonio’s leadership extends beyond titles. Through volunteer initiatives with Lighthouse Ministries and local church partnerships, he has embraced service as a reflection of his faith, inspiring peers to engage in meaningful outreach. His influence is evident in the culture he helped create, one where his peers are motivated to lead, serve, and grow together.
Guided by the principle of doing what is right, even when no one is watching, Antonio embodies spiritual integrity and the mission of Walsh University. He views leadership not as recognition, but as responsibility, one that calls him to continual self-improvement and to helping others discover their own purpose.
Antonio’s leadership at Walsh is one of quiet impact, authenticity, and a steadfast commitment to serving others.
