Introducing RIT’s outstanding female senior

Diellza Gashi

Kosovo declared its independence just over one year ago, and with it, the potential of a new and growing nation. Kosovo’s young people are part of a growing surge to revitalize the country, contributing to its economic growth.

One of those students is Diellza Gashi, a graduate of the American University in Kosovo and recent winner of the 2009 Outstanding Female Senior Award. The RIT Women’s Council gives the award to a graduating senior who achieves academic success in the face of personal challenges.

“I felt honored when I was nominated for this award. The fact that I was considered worthy for the nomination made me feel very good,” Gashi says. “There is nothing more valuable than my whole work, during four years of studies, being recognized and rewarded. I can freely say that this is a dream come true and I feel honored of having been recognized with it and having the possibility to represent all women at RIT and AUK,” she adds.

Gashi will graduate with a bachelor’s degree in applied arts and sciences with a concentration in management and a minor in public policy. She has earned a 3.94 grade point average. While at AUK, she participated in student government, served as a research assistant with the college and volunteered with the Education for Democracy Center in Kosovo. While attending college full time, Gashi also held several part-time jobs to pay her tuition.

Graduate school is on the horizon for Gashi. She was accepted into the master’s program at RIT and will be part of the human resource development program.

The RIT Women’s Council has given the Outstanding Female Senior Award since 1996. The council recognizes a senior female student who has demonstrated high scholarship achievement while surmounting difficult circumstances. A small monetary award and certificate will be presented at the council’s annual spring luncheon.