Women who make life better receive honors

Five Southwest Washington women were recognized Thursday night at Washington State University Vancouver’s eighth annual Women of Distinction celebration for the difference they make in the lives of others. The event wrapped up Women’s History Month on campus.

Recognition went to a high school student, a WSU Vancouver student and a community member. In addition, two women received honorable mention in the community category.

• High school recipient: Kiana Rahni, a senior at Union High School, is active in speech and debate, Future Business Leaders of America and DECA chapters. She volunteers with the Youth Philanthropy program of the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington.

• WSU Vancouver recipient: Dustina Haase-Lanier, a senior majoring in social sciences, is a social justice fighter who has been an advocate for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault for 15 years. After graduation, she plans to earn a master’s degree in social work.

• Community recipient: Peggy Carlson is district liaison for Students in Transition for Evergreen Public Schools. In that role, she coordinates services and supports students and families facing homelessness.

• Two community honorable mentions: Carol Hsu, a Clark College engineering professor, teaches and advises students on academics, transfer schools and careers, and volunteers for Not Even Remotely Dorky Girls’s outreach activities. Cindy Morical, student success coordinator at WSU Vancouver, helps students find their purpose and fulfill their potential.

The school has given the Women of Distinction Awards since 2009, concurrently with Women’s History Month, to recognize women in Southwest Washington for inspiring, mentoring and empowering others. Winners are selected by a committee that includes faculty, staff, students and community members.