Macie Snelson

Macie Snelson fully embraces the Virginia Tech motto. She said, “No matter what you have going on, how many things you have to do, or even if you feel like you're not doing too well in life yourself, you should always make time to serve others. Service won't only help those you are serving, but it can help improve your mood, your self-esteem, and it will help you to see the good in the world.”

Macie found her place at Virginia Tech through the campus ministry Christ's Church at Virginia Tech and quickly became involved in service -- The Big Event, the Interfaith Food Pantry in Christiansburg, the campus science fair for local school children – even making dog toys for the local animal shelter.

But it is her yearly mission trips to Costa Rica that have taught her the most. There, volunteers provide children from low income, high crime areas five days in a safe and loving environment, with activities, good nutrition, and interactive reflection.

Her nominator wrote, “This kind of global service is so important in our world today. Not only is Macie serving on this large scale, but she is also giving much of her time here in Blacksburg.”

Macie is the 2019 recipient of the Harold N. Young scholarship, a member of Gamma Beta Phi honor society, and is double majoring in Agribusiness and Spanish. She is also a member of the Recreational Sports Special Events team.

Macie, your devotion to service is an example for all of us. I am honored to present the Aspire! Award for UT PROSIM to Macie Snelson.