Franco Rizzuti, President’s Award winner, shares his words of thanks
 Franco Rizzuti received the President's Award for Excellence in Student Leadership at fall convocation on Nov. 12. Photo credit: Riley BrandtIn my experience, a student career studded with meaningful accomplishments and enduring contributions, of both an academic and co-curricular nature, is not the result of the oft-quoted formula combining strong organizational skills, time management, and passion.
Rather, meaningful and enduring contributions stem from a dynamic blend of curiosity, vision, perseverance, empathy, diligence, and a heartfelt concern for the individuals who comprise our family, university, community, nation, and world.
These values are shared by all UofC students, faculty, staff & alumni...thus being selected to receive the President’s Award is a surreal honor.
In reflecting, my drive, my motivation,, my essence, is summarized in a single potent sentence.
One’s potential is limited only by their imagination.
The U of C has afforded not only me, but countless students these opportunities to not merely realize their potential, but to surpass it.
As a student leader, I have a divine appreciation for both personal and professional development, not solely of myself but of those individuals I lead and programs I run. Along this vein, today’s award does not only recognize my achievements, but those of the 100s of students that I have had the privilege and honor of working with.. they are the reason I am here today and for that a part of this award goes to them.
I would like to thank Gareth McVicar and the fabulous team at the Student Succcess Centre, as well as Debbie Bruckner and the entire Wellness Centre for the once in a lifetime opportunities they presented.
I would like to thank my friends and family who have supported and encouraged me along the way.
A special thanks to my sister and parents who kept dinner warm on my late nights, offered guidance and wisdom every step of the way and for unconditionally supporting me. Without you, none of this would be possible.
Finally, thank you to the UofC for not only recognizing my co-curricular involvements, but for fostering them.
As I move forward in life, I shall never forget the rich experiences I’ve shared on this campus.
Thank-you
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November 2010