ERIE, Pa. — Tyler Stickles, a senior majoring in environmental science and biology at Penn State Erie, The Behrend College, has been named recipient of the 2025 Ralph Dorn Hetzel Memorial Award.
Named for Penn State’s 10th president, the Hetzel Award recognizes a combination of high scholastic attainment together with good citizenship and participation and leadership in student activities.
Nominators said Stickles is heavily involved in clubs and organizations in leadership roles and is committed to serving the community. He is or has been on the board for THON, Behrend Honors Student Association, Beta Beta Beta, Biology Club, Behrend’s IFC, Lion Entertainment Board, Science Ambassadors, Triangle Fraternity and was a Welcome Week Leader. He’s also a Lion Ambassador.
“The clubs and organizations, including our office, know when Tyler is involved that things will go as planned and handled if there is an issue,” a nominator said. “His leadership skills are a great attribute to him and will guide him to great things in his future.”
Nominators praised his role as a Lion Ambassador, where they said he’s a welcome face for new and potential students.
“He gives tours on campus and has participated in many student panels to inform prospective students about campus what Behrend has to offer,” a nominator said. “At the start of each semester, he volunteers to give directions to new students around the School of Science so they can find their way to their classes.”
He’s also engaged with the Erie community. He volunteers at the Anna Shelter, Erie Area Rabbit Society and Rescue, Second Harvest Food Bank and Community Blood Bank, and has participated in roadside and community cleanup efforts.