“One of my favorite quotes comes from a distinguished gentleman, former President George H. W. Bush. In 1995, he said, “No definition of a successful life can do anything but include serving others.” Service is the heard of being a gentleman. This is because gentlemen, through their upstanding character and conduct, elevate and empower those around them, especially women. My gentlemen-ethic comes from my training to become an Eagle Scout. Scouts commit themselves to embodying trustworthiness, loyalty, and courteousness, among other virtues. Service is something to which I have committed myself. I serve my college community by representing my peers in the American University Student Government. I am a Senator in the Undergraduate Senate. In this capacity, I have been an advocate for my female constituents as well as female Senate colleagues. Additionally, I am a member of the executive board of the American University chapter of the College Republicans. I spend countless hours creating our social media graphics, maintaining our website, and editing our member-sourced policy journal. I am also an active member of the AU chapter of the Campus Crusade for Christ, including involvement in weekly meetings and bible study sessions. For this organization, I am a Have His Heart Ambassador, in which I encourage fellow members to think about and pray for the missionaries that God has sent all around the world. Given my contributions in these capacities and the moral virtues that I work to uphold, I am deserving of the title, “Gentleman of the Year.” I am sure the women in my life, including my younger sister, my grandma, and my mom, would agree with the aptness of such a title.” ~Thomas Kenna, Nominee
