PennWest California senior Kyle Bennett has been awarded the 2024 Keepers of the Flame Award, presented by Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education to individuals who make extraordinary contributions to fostering inclusive campus communities.

He joins Dr. Natasha Dias, assistant professor of biology, earth and environmental sciences from PennWest Clarion, and Gavin Mitsdarfer, a PennWest Edinboro student majoring in secondary education as the 2024 honorees from PennWest.

A senior majoring in mechatronics engineering technology, Bennett is known for his leadership and involvement across the California campus. He is president of the Cosplay Club, treasurer of the Vulcan Gaming Club and captain of the Fencing Team, as well as a student tour guide and Supplemental Instruction leader.

“I do my best to make any place I’m in a better place,” Bennett said. “I think this award is just reaffirming that my efforts are being seen and making an impact.”

He credited several faculty and staff mentors – Brent and Jennifer Wilburn, in mechatronics; Patrick Riley, in computer and engineering technology; Cindy Speer, advisor of the Fencing Club; and Andrew Conlogue and Linda Takash, former and current international education advisors, respectively.

“Andrew felt like a big brother, and Linda feels like a second mom to me,” Bennett said. “I can go to her with any problems I have. And Mr. and Mrs. Dr. Wilburn, as we call them, feel like the parents of the entire program. My father passed away the second semester of my sophomore year, and they both helped me out of that. I met Patrick on day one at California, and he helped me to get internships and build my resume. And Cindy Speer has been a great friend and mentor.”

Bennett’s experience as an international student from Trinidad and Tobago has fueled his commitment to making other students feel welcome.

 “It makes me look at clubs and organizations as more than just activities. They’re people’s main support groups on campus, friends you’ll have long after you graduate,” he said.

“I’ve learned so much since leaving home. Being here has helped me develop as a leader and become better organized because others are counting on me.”