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The SEK Wonder Woman award was created in 2017 to honor a local woman each year who works to uphold feminist ideals.
The Southeast Kansas chapter of the National Organization for Women (SEK NOW) presented 2020’s Wonder Woman award to Stephanie Spitz, Program Coordinator of Students for Violence Prevention (SVP) and Victim Advocacy at PSU, on Saturday, Feb. 6.
“It feels surreal,” Spitz said. “I’m deeply grateful that my students nominated me for it, but I don’t feel like I’ve earned it yet! Currently, it’s sitting in my office to motivate me to continue to be worthy of the award and what it all stands for. The work is never done.”
Kristen Horyna, senior in chemistry and student coordinator in SVP, nominated Spitz.
“I thought to nominate Stephanie for the Wonder Woman award because of her dedication to this campus and community,” Horyna said. “She does so much that goes unnoticed, and I really felt she deserved this award. Not only does she teach courses here at Pitt State she also teaches classes in the area. She is the victim advocate on our campus as she helps with those who are survivors of violence. She is also the advisor for SVP and SAGE on campus.”
At the award ceremony, Spitz was given a plaque and a $200 donation to a charity of her choosing. Spitz chose Q Space, a local nonprofit organization that works with and supports members of the LGBTQIAP+ community. They aim to create a safe and welcoming environment for LGBTQIAP+ people and they host events to facilitate activism and education. s
“I believe in their mission and how they’re working hard to educate the community and provide support to LGBTQ+ individuals in the SEK area,” Spitz said. “With the donation, they can provide more trainings, host more events, and support people in this community that might not always have the space to truly be themselves. Everyone is worthy of love and acceptance, and to be a part of that, is just beautiful.”
During her freshman year at Pitt State, Horyna took on project for a women’s studies course and met Spitz after deciding to focus her project on domestic violence.
“…She always goes above and beyond,” Horyna said. “No matter if she has known you for a long time or just met, she will be there for you and make you feel included. She is one who is always inspiring those around her to be an activist and empower other’s voices.”
Horyna feels that recognizing Spitz for her contributions is important.
“…I feel that her winning this award made it clear that we see her, and we love all of the things she does for our campus and community.”
The Bloody Goods Case is a menstrual product drive. They accept donations in cash through PayPal and will accept checks mailed in. Drop off boxes are located at TOAST and the Looking Glass Salon. They also do pickups and can arrange for that through Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/SEKNOW or through email at southeastksnow@gmail.com.
“…If you’d like to get involved in a bit of activism and giving back to the community with SEK NOW, I’d like to encourage you to participate in the Bloody Good Cause..,” Spitz said.
