Kimberlyn Marquez was selected as the 2026 Gateway Technical College Rudy’s Red Hawk Champion of the Year and was honored at the college’s Student Life Awards Banquet.

Marquez, a Criminal Justice program student, is actively involved in the Gateway community as the president of the Latino Unidos Club, a member of the college’s United Student Government and a three-time Study Abroad student in International Education.

“Kimberlyn has embraced the Gateway Student Life experience and encourages others to get involved,” said Lindsey Kosman, Student Life and Engagement manager. “Kimberlyn embodies what we hope students take away from their time at Gateway – getting involved, building connections and making an impact across campus.”

The award honors a student or student group “that soars above the rest in promoting school spirit, pride and engagement.”
Marquez’s nominator said her “dedication, discipline and commitment to serving others reflect the same qualities she has demonstrated as a student leader on our campus.”

Also at the ceremony, the Disability Student Alliance club was named the Outstanding Student Organization for the 2025-26 Academic Year. This award recognizes a student organization that “demonstrates exceptional commitment to meaningful programming, active member engagement and measurable impact on the campus community.”

Several other student awards were handed out at the event.

“Our first Student Life Awards Banquet was exciting, recognizing such a wide range of student involvement,” said Kosman. “Each group – from our ambassadors, club leaders and honor society inductees to eSports teams – demonstrates the energy, leadership and commitment that define the Gateway student experience. 

“Each group represents a different way students are getting involved, building community, and making an impact at Gateway. It was a great reminder of the depth of talent and leadership we have across our campuses.”