Penn State Behrend senior women's soccer goalkeeper Taylor Troyan is the first Behrend student-athlete to be selected as one of five Penn State students honored with the 2016 John W. Oswald Award.
The John W. Oswald Award, established in 1983, annually recognizes graduating seniors who have provided outstanding leadership in at least one of several areas of activity at the University. The award consists of a medallion honoring John W. Oswald, president of the University from 1970 to 1983. The fields include, social sciences, religious activities, student government, journalism, speech and mass media, creative and performing arts and athletics.
The senior, majoring in nursing, has already passed her state licensure exam and has been working in the field for more than a year. That is in addition to her other duties: a full-time student and captain of the women's soccer team, where she set the school record with 86 consecutive starts.
Juggling work, academics and athletics, none have had to suffer. Troyan has led the team to four AMCC championships, participated in four NCAA tournaments, and has been recognized more than a dozen times for athletic performance, all while maintaining a 3.5 cumulative GPA.
"Taylor (Troyan) sincerely amazes me with her ability to balance responsibilities as a full-time nurse, student and team captain," said a nominator. "Some weeks, she would attend class all day, work all night as a nurse at UPMC Hamot and attend soccer practice in the morning. She never complained about this hectic schedule and demonstrated unwavering commitment to dedicating each aspect of her life."
"As a nurse, Taylor is intelligent and quick on her feet. As a soccer player, she's a team leader who performs at her best each game," said another nominator. "We are so lucky to have a well-rounded student like Taylor representing Penn State Behrend."
Additionally, Troyan served as the treasurer and secretary for the Student Athletic Advisory Committee for four years and participated in the TOPsoccer program through the campus, where she taught the sport to special-needs children. She's also been an academic tutor.