Missouri State University’s Citizen Scholars aim to educate and build up new leaders. Protect and serve our country. Advocate for and improve their communities. Amplify the voices of the next generation.

Today, Missouri State’s Board of Governors awarded six students with the Citizen Scholar award. The award is given to students who embody the university’s public affairs mission and have outstanding academic achievements.

The Citizen Scholar Award was created in 2007 as a special Board of Governors program to recognize outstanding citizen scholars at MSU. Since 2007, the university has recognized 89 students for their achievements. Missouri State faculty and staff members submit nominations each fall.

The 2022-23 Citizen Scholars

The Citizen Scholar recipients are:

Morgan Blanck, senior, Willow Springs, Missouri

Blanck is majoring in professional writing. She currently serves as the Student Life receptionist at the MSU-West Plains campus, editing and planning events. She’s known for being self-motivated in her education and service.

After she graduates, she plans to become an editor for a local publishing company.

Samara Mizutani Cesar, graduate student, Sao Paulo, Brazil, and Isesaki, Japan

Cesar is working on a Master of Criminology. She’s proud to be a part of creating Bears HEAL, a peer-to-peer support program for survivors of interpersonal violence. Her passion led her to conduct her own research study on sexual violence and international students. Her research has started needed discussions about policy and practice changes on campus.

After graduation, she plans to pursue a doctorate in anthropology and conduct research.

Milana Hainline, senior, Springfield, Missouri

Hainline is in the elementary education program. Not only is she passionate about education, but she is also an accomplished vocalist. She has released two singles on streaming platforms, and just finished her debut album in Nashville, Tennessee.

After graduation, she plans to teach elementary students in a general education classroom.

Blake Rief, senior, Eureka, Missouri

Rief is working toward a degree in criminology. Upon completion, he plans to commission as an engineer, field artillery or armor officer in the United States Army. After serving, he wants to become a police officer.

One of Rief’s greatest accomplishments was being invited as a representative of the Foundation Scholarship and ROTC member at The Celebration event on campus.

Lindsey Sanderson, senior, Wichita, Kansas

Sanderson is majoring in construction management and is an ambassador for the program. Her passion is to elevate the visibility and exposure of women in the construction industry and be a role model and mentor to students.

After she graduates, she plans to work for a general contractor and focus on building more leadership skills and volunteering within her community.

Orlondo X. Williams, senior, Saint Louis, Missouri

Williams is majoring in child and family development. One of his proudest accomplishments is being featured as a College of Education Banner student. His charismatic and positive influence in the classroom has brought a long-lasting impact on campus.

Once he graduates, he plans to study education administration in hopes of becoming a high school principal.