The 2006 Newberg Outstanding Senior

The following was written about Brett, a senior from Moran, Kan., at the time of his award in 2006.

Brett Bruner is pursuing his business administration degree, and that’s only the beginning. As president of Associated Student Government, Brett has managed to maintain a near-perfect GPA and give of his time to the campus and community.

Brett’s list of campus and honorary organizations includes Phi Beta Lambda, Circle K, Xi Phi, Cardinal Key, Marketing Club, Students in Free Enterprise, UAC, Beta Gamma Sigma, Phi Kappa Phi, and Associated Student Government. He holds student memberships in organizations including the Great Plains Association of College Admissions Counselors, Kansas Business Education Association, National Association of Campus Activities, and the National Orientation Directors Association. 

He has been recognized in Who’s Who Among Students in American Colleges & Universities, the University Honor Roll, and the School of Business Dean’s List. He has also been recognized as Who’s Who in Phi Beta Lambda in Kansas as well as at the national level. He has earned scholarships including the Capitol Federal Savings Scholarship, LEAD scholarship, Presidential Academic Awards, Winslow Educational Scholarship, and the Kansas FCCLA Alumni & Associates Scholarship. Off campus, Brett served as a national STOP (Students Taking On Prevention) facilitator.

Brett has served as a Hornet Days Leader, LEAD mentor, SWARM leader, and is a graduate of the National LeaderShape Institute in Champaign, Illinois. Within ASG, he has been elected and appointed to numerous positions and committees including representative, coordinator, supervisor, senator, delegate, and ultimately, president. 

In his letter of recommendation, Jim Williams, vice president of student affairs, wrote the following: “…During my tenure at Emporia State University, I have had the opportunity to watch this student excel in various leadership positions. In each of these positions, he has exhibited the traits of compassion, understanding, foresight, commitment and maturity. These attributes, balanced with an outstanding sense of humor, have enabled him to achieve success both as a leader and a student scholar. In his most recent role as President of the Student Body, he has been impressive in his ability to represent the perspectives of the student population both with the campus administration and State of Kansas officials. His honest and insightful approach, as well as his willingness to seek and foster collaboration on issues impacting the students, faculty, and staff, are two of the key leadership characteristics he has developed through this current position. Further, the leadership roles he has assumed in the academic, campus and Emporia community as well as various other student organizations, have afforded him the opportunity to explore his interests and serve this institution. As an academic role model, he has been able to participate and fully engage in these various co-curricular activities and leadership roles while maintaining a strong academic record….”

Mary Shivley, leadership development coordinator, wrote in her nomination letter that Bruner was able to tackle additional responsibilities with ease, such as training SWARM leaders to run the new student enrollment days. “Training these leaders is a very large responsibility for an undergraduate student,” Shivley wrote. “However, Mr. Bruner is ready and prepared for this challenge. He relates extremely well to his peers and can handle a multitude of tasks all at the same time.”

Brett will receive a check for $500 and be given the opportunity to speak at the May commencement exercises.

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