Student Vax Incentive Grand Prize is awarded

The winner of the $10,000 Grand Prize in the Student Vaccination Incentive program is Bernadette Donato.

Bernadette is a Hospitality Management major who is completing her degree this semester. She was a previous winner of a $1,000 prize in the Vaccination Incentive program.

Bernadette received the Grand Prize from President Monica Posey on Dec. 17.

Bernadette said, “It’s an amazing feeling, and my heart is overwhelmed with gratitude to Cincinnati State for this incentive program. It’s truly been a blessing to me, twice.”

She said she got the COVID vaccination “To save myself and others– it’s important!”

“I’m finishing a degree I started 19 years ago,” Bernadette added. “There were many challenges, but now I can help my daughter and give my grandchildren a great holiday, and help others who have helped me along the way.”

“I try to stay positive all the time, and every Thursday this semester I ‘paid it forward’ at Bakery Hill by getting a coffee and a muffin and leaving $5 for the next person,” Bernadette said. “The little things make me happy–and when you do things from a positive place of love it always comes back to you.”

Bernadette sought help from TRIO Student Support Services to get though a math class in her final semester.

Regina Livers, Director of College Access Programs, said Bernadette has been a diligent and focused student who committed to intensive tutoring services twice a week.

“Bernadette brings a positive vibe to the TRIO SSS Student Center and she encourages other students to stay focus to accomplish their goals,” Regina said.

Bernadette thanked her tutor, Erma Rutland-White, for providing help throughout the semester. “She’s an angel,” Bernadette said.

A total of 1,575 students entered the Vaccination Incentive Program during Fall Semester.

• 675 students obtained gift cards after completing the incentive program eForm, including 32 gift cards distributed at Harrison Campus and 8 gift cards distributed at Middletown Campus.
   
• 80 students reported receiving their first COVID vaccination because of the incentive program.
   
• All student prize drawing winners are listed on the Student Vaccination Incentive Program Winners web page.