Neleigh Rush
Graduation year: 2025
High school: Ralston High School
Hometown: Omaha, Neb.
Majors: History, political science
Minor: Nonprofit leadership development
Activities: Student Government Association, Delta Chi Theta sorority, former student-athlete
Internship: Council for Advancement and Support for Education
Post-grad plans: I will be working in higher education advancement.
Why Augustana?
I chose Augustana because it fit everything I was looking for in a school. I knew from the support that I received before I even arrived or committed that I would be able to do everything I dreamed of doing. From the moment I stepped foot on campus, I saw an unexplored world that I would be able to do great things in.
Are you where you thought you'd be when you first came to campus?
I am both exactly where I thought I would be and also not even close to where I thought I would be. One of my first days on campus was opening convocation where then-SGA president Olivia Smith spoke, and from that day on, I wanted to end up where she was. I saw her as an inspiration, and being SGA president was one of my goals the entire time I was here. Thanks to the support that I received and also the hard work that I put in, I was able to achieve that.
Who helped you get to where you are now?
There are so many people who have helped me get to where I am now through my academics, my career and even within my personal life, but there are two individuals who stand out more than others. The first is my on-campus boss Brinton Vincent. Brinton introduced me the world of advancement and has supported me every step of my journey to start my career in the field. He has provided me with support and advice during the past three years that I am forever grateful for.
The second is my career coach Claire Brackel Packer. Claire guided me through a time when I had absolutely no idea where I wanted my degree to take me. Through her help I attended the PLEN (Public Leadership Education Network) conference and met amazing people, an experience that shaped my future career.
These two people have provided me with endless support and advice that only people at Augustana could have provided.
Peak experience?
This past J-term I took the Art of Fundraising class taught by Associate Director of Development and Engagement Karen Petersen and President Emeritus Steve Bahls. This class was special for multiple reasons, but for me, it was the first time I was able to take a class that directly related to my career.
Through this class my passion for advancement and nonprofit work grew. I am thankful for Karen and Steve for this class because I had the opportunity to learn from two experts and receive hands-on training.
What surprised you?
When I came to Augustana, I was surprised by the genuine care that the staff, faculty and students have for one another on this campus. Throughout my time, I have had many different interactions with people ranging from small moments to ongoing friendships and mentorships. Through all of them, everyone has been genuine in their care for me as a person and as a student.
How did you use your Augie Choice?
I used my Angie Choice to travel to Scotland with the women's golf team. This trip was a once-in-a-lifetime experience of travel, learning and emersion into a new culture with some of my best friends. I would never have been able to take this trip without Augie Choice.
What will you miss the most?
I will miss being surrounded by people who are as driven, caring and passionate as I am. Augustana is filled with people with ranges of backgrounds, interests and passions, but it is a place that no matter what you want to do you are supported. That feeling of endless opportunities and support that this campus gives to all of its students is an environment that I will miss dearly. Along with that, I will miss all of the unique, smart and supportive people who have been by my side.
Advice for the Class of 2029?
Trust and be patient on your winding road. Even if you know exactly what you want to do when you step foot on campus, there will eventually be some sort of hiccup along the way. In those situations, stay true to yourself. Everything will work out.
"Neleigh has had a remarkable student career at Augustana. From being a student-athlete to leading the student body as SGA president, Neleigh has made the most of her experience both academically and co-curricularly. She is both wise and mature beyond her years, which will serve her well in the future. What stands out to me about Neleigh is her ability to balance so many obligations and to do so with professionalism and grace. She has a bright future."