Jischke Outstanding International Student of the Year Award presented
April 25, 2014
The 2014 Martin C. Jischke Outstanding International Student of the Year Award has been presented to Kenneth Tan, a senior in chemical engineering, to recognize his high academic achievement and efforts to promote cultural understanding through volunteer service,
The award was established by President Emeritus Martin C. Jischke to recognize a Purdue international student who has helped the University welcome and connect people of all cultures. Honorees also must demonstrate excellence in scholarship, leadership, character and service (on or off campus).
Tan received the award from Jischke during an April 17 banquet at Purdue Memorial Union. Tan will receive a certificate and $1,750 cash award from the Jischke Endowment as well as have his name inscribed on an award marker in Schleman Hall.
Nominators stated that Tan acts as a great bridge between communities, inviting others to diverse campus events and sharing his culture through the One Malaysia Video Project, which strives to show others "what an amazing family all Malaysian students have here at Purdue."
"In fall 2013, he sensed an opportunity to unite the Malaysian community at Purdue to promote the 'Boilermaker experience' to fellow Malaysians considering university study in the U.S.," one nominator wrote. "The result was a video that featured many Malaysian students at Purdue and even the mayor of West Lafayette. The video was featured in numerous articles, including a national publication, in Malaysia. From an idea of a way to give back to an end product, Kenny has made an impact and such contributions will continue to give back to Purdue, for years to come."
Nominators praised Tan for his efforts in the Emily Mauzy Vogel Sophomore Leadership Development Conference (participant, team leader and director of student experience and administration), Barbara Cook Chapter of Mortar Board Class of 2014, Purdue University Malaysian Students Association (president), and Purdue Musical Organizations' Heart and Soul ensemble (performer and head of public relations).
Tan's ability to balance numerous commitments while maintaining a high level of scholastic achievement also was noted. Tan has made Dean's List numerous semesters as well as conducted undergraduate research under Lynne Taylor, professor of industrial and physical pharmacy.
"Kenny is a role model to his peers, leads with integrity and exhibits the qualities you seek such as scholarship, leadership, service and character," one nominator wrote. "Nothing would bring me greater joy than to walk past the Martin C. Jischke Outstanding International Student of the Year Award marker in Schleman Hall and see the name Kenneth Tan Siew Kheng inscribed in the award. He is very deserving of this honor."
