The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Center for Distance Learning is pleased to announce Jesse Ruegsegger as this year’s Outstanding Business Student of the Year.
Each year, the School of Business presents the award to a graduating senior in the Distance Education program who has demonstrated academic excellence, high involvement in extracurricular activities, service to the community, and has overcome adversity to successfully complete their educational goal. Students applying for this award must have earned a GPA of at least 3.0, completed 30 or more credits from UW-Platteville’s business administration program at a distance, and demonstrated continued academic progress.
“Receiving this award is an honor, because I know there are many students out there that possibly deserve it more than I do," said Ruegsegger. "The only reason I'm where I'm at today is because of my past mistakes. I give my best because I know what happens when I don't. It's been tough forgiving myself, but it's possible with enough effort.”
In 2012, due to an unwitting tragedy committed by his hands, Ruegsegger started his education behind bars. Classes were first conducted through the mail, but upon being released Ruegsegger took his studies fully online, a format he pursued until his graduation this May. In addition to receiving the Outstanding Business Student of the Year award, Ruegsegger was also elected as a valedictorian for his class – two distinctions that conclude his academic journey on an undeniably high note compared to its humble beginnings.
To read Ruegsegger’s full story, click here.