Morgen Rhodes, a student at the University of Detroit Mercy’s College of Humanities, Arts & Social Sciences (CHASS), majoring in Political Science, has been honored with the John Daniels Student Servant Leader of the Year Award, acknowledging her exemplary commitment to servant leadership throughout her undergraduate career.
Under Rhodes’ leadership, the Political Science Student Association (PSSA) was named Student Organization of the Year, reflecting its significant contributions to campus life and civic engagement.
Reflecting on her leadership philosophy, Rhodes stated, “To me, leadership has never been about holding a title. It has been about showing up, doing the work, and making sure other students felt like they could too.”
Rhodes has also co-founded the Feminist Coalition (FemCo), aiming to amplify women’s voices and advocate for social justice within the university community.
Additionally, she serves as a lead student ambassador for CHASS, working to showcase student achievements and promote engagement.
Her multifaceted involvement underscores her dedication to creating inclusive spaces and empowering fellow students to engage in advocacy and leadership.
Eemi Toma, a Political Science major in the College of Humanities, Arts & Social Sciences (CHASS), has been named the Rising Star Student Leader of the Year, recognizing her early contributions to the University of Detroit Mercy community. This award highlights Toma’s dedication to leadership and service, despite being in her first year at the university.
“I’m incredibly honored to receive the Rising Star Student Leader of the Year award—it’s truly humbling to be recognized in this way, especially as a first-year student,” Toma said. “I’ve truly appreciated the opportunities I’ve had to grow and contribute to our campus community so far, and I’m grateful that the university has seen value in the work I’ve begun. That said, I know my work is far from done.”
For Toma, leadership is not defined by a title but by action. “This award represents a recognition of quiet leadership—the kind that comes from listening closely, showing up consistently, and stepping up when something needs to be done,” she explained. As a Political Science major in the Honors Program and the 6-Year Law Program, Toma has already made a noticeable impact by serving her peers and community.
One of her most significant accomplishments so far is her involvement in bringing a She’s the First chapter to campus. This organization is dedicated to providing education to girls around the world, empowering them to become the first in their families to attend college. “Helping to bring this mission to our university has been incredibly meaningful to me and has deepened my commitment to global education equity while strengthening my leadership and organizational skills,” Toma shared.
Toma’s dedication to leadership extends beyond her work with She’s the First. She is also actively involved in several other campus organizations, including the Student Government Association (SGA), the Political Science Student Association (PSSA), the TENN Leadership Committee, and the Pre-Law Society (PLS). “My goal is to leave this university better than I found it—and to help others feel empowered to lead in their own ways, too,” Toma said.
With two years left in her undergraduate studies, Toma is focused on continuing her journey of service and leadership, eager to make a lasting impact and inspire others to do the same.