Four CSM students honored with Heart of the Walking Woman awards

OMAHA, Neb. – Four College of Saint Mary (CSM) students who exemplify character, service and leadership were recognized during the 79th annual Heart of the Walking Woman celebration March 29. 

“The Heart of the Walking Woman award is a recognition of outstanding achievement in leadership, service, academics and CSM values,” said Jackie Wilson, dean of students. “This celebration is an acknowledgment of the Heart of the Walking Woman icon and statue on campus that has been a symbol of the powerful nature of women's education and the enduring legacy of the foundress of the Sisters of Mercy Catherine McAuley.” 

Heart of the Walking Woman finalists are selected from each class. A fourth-year finalist receives the Heart of the Walking Woman honor, while first-year, second-year and third-year finalists are selected as Walking Women in the Making.  

Winners were nominated by their peers and participated in a rigorous application process. The selection committee was made up of campus leadership. 

Rosario Chaclan, a senior biology major and Spanish minor, received the Heart of the Walking Woman Award. 

Chaclan is the community coordinator as a resident hall advisor and a Campus Activities Board executive. She previously served on the Student Senate as an executive and secretary. Chaclan plans to become a chiropractor, helping to support the Spanish-speaking community.  

“This award represents more than just recognition—it symbolizes the strength, compassion and community that lives in every student who walks these halls. During my time here, I’ve had the privilege of building genuine connections with classmates who became amazing friends and mentors who became lifelong inspirations and a campus that became a second home,” Chaclan said. “These relationships have shaped me, challenged me and reminded me of the power of showing up with heart in everything I do. It’s a reflection of the people who have walked beside me, encouraged me and believed in me. I’m so thankful to be part of a community that lifts each other up.”   

The third-year Walking Woman in the Making was Jessica Tienda, a human biology major and theology minor. 

Tienda is the Student Senate chairwoman, a Latinas Empowering Others executive, a Blaze leader, a Doing Unto Others member and a member of the Green Team. She was previously involved with the CSM Singers. 

“Receiving this award not only displays the dedication that I have put into becoming a better student, friend, daughter and overall woman of God, but it also displays the support that the community of College of Saint Mary offers,” Tienda said. “Through College of Saint Mary’s mission, I have clarity about who I want to become. With the knowledge and character that I am gaining, and the knowledge and character that I have still to develop, I intend to use my skills to help others, especially those who are the most vulnerable. As I pursue a career in healthcare, I hope to bring smiles back on my patient’s faces but also empower those who are not heard in our society.” 

Addison Miller, an elementary education major and special education minor, received the second-year Walking Woman in the Making award. Miller is a distance and butterfly swimmer on the Flames swim team, a Student Senate executive and a member of the Knitting and Crocheting Club. 

The first-year Walking Woman in the Making was Alayshia White, a nursing major. 

White has served as president of the Honorable African/African American Leadership Organization, a member of Latinas Empowering Others and Do Unto Others, and has served on the Welcome Days committee. 

As a nurse, White plans to advocate for equitable access to healthcare.