Former Editor-in-Chief Honored as Student POWA

The student POWA is awarded to a Plymouth State female student who has “contributed to the advancement of women’s issues on both on campus and the greater community.”

The award was presented in Heritage Commons in front of a number of faculty and staff.

Upon winning the award Barden was ecstatic. “I am surprised, honored and thankful all at the same time,” said Barden.

“If I hadn’t grown up in such a sup- portive environment that encouraged independent thinking, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I’m also thankful that PSU fosters and supports that same kind of environment.”

Barden stepped into an extremely tough situation in the spring semester of 2015 as editor-in-chief. She played a huge role in the remodel of the office, and was faced with many adversities throughout the year running The Clock, including the hiring and training of a completely new staff, hunting for advertisements, and running the news section of the paper on her own.

Outside of the newspaper, the Catskill, New York native has been involved in a number of student affairs on campus. From being on the spring fling committee in 2015, to working with admissions as a tour guide, Barden has stood out amongst her peers.

“[Elizabeth] works hard and doesn't quit. She demonstrates what's possible when you know your values and live them,” said Communication & Media Studies professor Mary Beth Ray. “I've had the pleasure of getting to know Libby through class. She advises and advocates for her peers, while listening and learning.”

As this year’s student POWA, Barden has always been influenced by digging into issues that women face on a daily basis. “[Elizabeth] a dedicated journalist, covering news stories that influence and impact women both through content and through example setting,” said Ray.

“She epitomizes the next generation of feminism--I can, and so can you.”

The Clock Staff wants to thank Libby for everything she has done for us. Without her, none of us would be where we are today. Congratulations on such an amazing award!