Olivia Buzzelli ’25 named Illinois Student Lincoln Laureate

Aurora University senior Olivia Buzzelli '25 was named a recipient of the Abraham Lincoln Civic Engagement Award, representing the university as a Student Laureate of The Lincoln Academy of Illinois.

Buzzelli joins top students from 49 colleges and universities across the state selected to receive the annual award in recognition of their outstanding achievements in both academic and extracurricular pursuits.

A resident of Plymouth, Michigan, Buzzelli has excelled academically, as a student-athlete and campus leader. She is captain of AU's women's hockey team, president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, senate chair of the Aurora University Students' Association, and treasurer of the Sport Management Association. Her other campus activities include membership in the Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society, Pi Sigma Alpha Honor Society, and Pre-Law Student Association. She also serves as a student representative for the Senate Athletic Committee and was a peer advisor for two years.

Upon graduating with a bachelor's degree in political science and public policy and sport management, Buzzelli plans to attend law school with the aspirations of practicing sports law and focusing on player contract negotiation and athlete representation.

"Aurora University has empowered me to grow both personally and professionally, giving me the confidence and skills to pursue my goals with purpose and passion," she said. "I'm excited to take the next step toward a career in law, and AU has given me the tools and support I need to succeed in this next chapter."

The Student Laureates were presented with their awards at a special ceremony in Springfield in October. In the spirit of Abraham Lincoln, Student Laureates are honored for their "leadership and service in pursuit of the betterment of humanity and for overall excellence in curricular and extracurricular activities," according to the Springfield, Illinois-based nonprofit organization.

Each fall, The Lincoln Academy awards the Abraham Lincoln Civic Engagement Award to one outstanding senior from each of the participating colleges and universities in Illinois. The Student Laureates receive a letter and certificate of merit signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker, a Lincoln medallion, a challenge coin, and a $1,000 check.