ASU’s Pat Tillman Scholars not only prepared for Saturday’s Pat’s Run, but they are also taking other measures to reflect Tillman’s bravery and honor at ASU and in the community.
Fourteen students who are business majors, honor students or athletes comprise the 2010 Pat Tillman Scholars. Tillman Scholars-ASU is a program designed to support students and celebrate Tillman’s legacy through leadership and motivational classes.
The scholars are taking a year-long “Leadership Though Action” class taught by Professor Michael Mokwa, who is also the Pat Tillman Foundation Distinguished Professor.
Ashley Mentzer, a secondary education sophomore, said the class helps the students develop individual leadership skills and compare different leadership styles.
“There’s a lot of collaborative work. We learn a lot about how we as individuals act and how we act in group settings to benefit the community we are in,” Mentzer said.
The scholars have been spending this spring semester developing individual community actions projects to implement before they graduate.
“We are shaping our bold ideas on how we can impact the community around us,” said Hillary Bach in an email.
Bach is an ASU softball player and business marketing junior who became a Tillman Scholar after hearing about the program from past student-athlete scholars.
Bach’s vision is to empower young female athletes. She wants to lift the financial burden that could hinder their positive self-esteem and help provide gear the girls may need to feel comfortable and excel in their field.
“I want to provide clothing, uniforms, or equipment to girls in need to help them pursue their dreams,” Bach said.
Reach the reporter at ctetreau@asu.edu
