Flanagan Award Winner: Samuel Leppo

Lily Goedeke

Samuel Leppo has been rewarded the Edward J. Flanagan Award for the senior class of 2026. Leppo was the sole nominee for the award and nominated by Assistant Professor Dr. Sarah Krueger, History Department Chair Dr. Tim Fritz and Director of the Center for Service Mr. Francis Lukban. 

The Flanagan Prize is given to a member of the senior class who captures the traditions of the Mount in aspects such as scholarship, conduct and leadership. 

According to the Mount St. Mary’s website, Leppo encompasses these aspects through his academic excellence and service both the Mount and surrounding community. Notable achievements Leppo notes was the ability  to participate in his volunteer service as an EMT with the Vigilant House Company (VHC) and his leadership in the Center for Service’s Rother Immersion Student Experience (R.I.S.E.).  

Samuel explained, “To be chosen as representative of the traditions of Mount St. Mary’s in scholarship, conduct, and leadership is a tremendous honor and deeply humbling.” 

Leppo also gives gratitude to the staff, faculty and students of the school who have supported him over the past four years. He notes that these experiences have led him to recognizing the importance of a community where all people feel welcomed and supported.  

Fritz explained that the reason he, Krueger and Lukban nominated Leppo is that all three of them have seen how hard he has worked to help other Mount students stay successful. 

Leppo is described as, “Someone who many students will interact with and receive support from throughout their time on campus.” Fritz commented on how he is a model of ethical leadership and servanthood. 

Other of Leppo’s achievements include his scholarships. This includes the Trudy D. Conway Social Justice Memorial Scholarship, the Rev. Carl J. Fives Alumni Scholarship and the MSMU Trustee Scholarship. He has also received the Betsy Santos Internship Award and he is a leader in both the Health Professions Club and the HP Book Club.  

As a Biochemistry and Biology major Leppo hopes to obtain his master’s in health administration. With this, he seeks to apply his talents and skills in the legal field.