Chippewa Valley Times

Sophia Curran-Moore, a senior at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (UWEC), has been awarded the 2025 UWEC Honors Prechel Scholarship. This recognition is named after Ryan Prechel, a 2005 UWEC graduate and former student leader. Sophia was chosen for her dedication to service and leadership within the campus community.

As part of her scholarship award, Sophia will donate $500 to an organization of her choice. She selected the Pinky Swear Foundation, which supports children with cancer and their families. “Almost all of us know someone who has had cancer, and it is a very difficult experience. It's also very expensive, and I hope this money will help lessen that burden,” she stated.

Dr. Heather Fielding, professor of English and director of the University Honors Program, praised Sophia's commitment to enhancing the educational environment on campus. Dr. Fielding remarked that Sophia “cares a lot about the educational environment on campus — from making sure that students with allergies feel supported in the dining hall to helping new freshmen find their place on campus.”

Sophia's involvement with freshmen through programs like Honors Helping Honors (HHH) highlights her passion for service. Reflecting on her time as an HHH guide, she shared fond memories such as taking freshmen for ice cream at Olson’s Ice Cream in Eau Claire.

In addition to mentoring roles in programs like Honors 100 freshman seminar course, Sophia participated in research projects during her time at UWEC. As a freshman in the Honors Fellowship program, she contributed to a project examining food quality on campus.

Sophia's academic journey includes studying abroad in Chile where she volunteered at a university's English classroom as part of an honors contract. Her experiences abroad reinforced her desire to teach in districts with native Spanish speakers.

Looking ahead, Sophia plans to begin teaching immediately after graduation. Reflecting on her career choice during the pandemic period, she noted how it highlighted "how important school is for kids."