Dean Bavisotto of Buffalo has been named Student of the Month for October by the Office of Residence Life. Dean was nominated for the award by Jeffry Iovannone, coordinator of Women’s and Gender Studies, for his strong contributions to the Fredonia campus and community.
“Dean exemplifies the role of what I refer to as the ‘scholar-activist’ or, an individual who has not only an understanding of academic knowledge, but who actively uses that knowledge to work toward social change, thus connecting the classroom to the community,” says Dr. Iovannone.
Dean is a Junior Women’s and Gender Studies and English double major. In addition to the many honors and awards that he has received, Dean is an active member of Women’s Student Union and Pride Alliance. After completing a scholar-activism group project, Dean and his group members wrote a preferred names resolution that was brought to and passed by the Student Association and the University Senate. This resulted in the assembly of the Primary Names Taskforce by Fredonia President Virginia Horvath. Dean serves on the task force, in addition to the Sexual Assault and Title IX task force.
When asked about his favorite thing at Fredonia, Dean said, “My favorite things about Fredonia have to do with the student population. One of the main reasons I chose Fredonia was because there is a large and varied queer population and there are many activities and groups on this campus that cater to this community.” He added that he enjoys the music aspect of the school, and that there are many great local bands. In regard to his future, Dean plans to pursue a master’s degree in either Gender Studies or Social Work. He then plans to pursue a career in counseling with a target population of trans and gender non-conforming people, or a career as a college professor in the field of Gender Studies.
The Student of the Month program was implemented in 2003 to recognize students who are well-rounded, excel in their academics and contribute positively to the campus and community. To nominate a student, visit www.fredonia.edu/student-life/residence-life/student-month.
