Riley Named 2022 MPTC Student Of The Year

Moraine Park Technical College has named Ryan Riley, of Oshkosh, their 2022 Student of the Year.

Riley, a student in the Electrical Power Distribution program, came back to Moraine Park after completing the Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC)/Tool and Die Technology program in 2009.

“I really like working in the trades, and after working as a CNC machinist for over 10 years, I wanted a change and more opportunity for my family,” Riley said. “I was always interested in electricity, so I decided to come back to Moraine Park, and I started my program in 2021.”

Riley will graduate from the EPD program on May 21 and will speak at both the Student Awards Banquet and Moraine Park’s Commencement Ceremony.

It is because of his dedication, humility and authenticity that Riley earned a nomination for the Student of the Year award.

Criteria for Student of the Year nominations include demonstrating excellence in and out of the classroom while modeling Moraine Park’s core abilities to communicate clearly, act responsibly, work productively, think critically and creatively, adapt to change, demonstrate integrity, and work cooperatively. There were five candidates this year, all of whom excel both academically and in their service-learning. There are very few student honors that exceed this award at Moraine Park, and to even be nominated is a tremendous accomplishment. Other nominees include Diego Barragan of Sun Prairie, Collin Sauer of Oconomowoc, Mina Vang-Xiong of Fond du Lac, and Haley Van Raden of West Bend.

“Being nominated for Student of the Year was very unexpected,” he said. “It was not on my radar or anything I was expecting to get. I know there are so many other great students, so it’s really an honor to be chosen.”

Riley will receive his award at the Student Awards Banquet on May 13.

“I’m hoping to leave a positive message with the other students,” he said. “I’m probably a decade older than anyone in the program, and I want to show them that it’s okay to run your own race. Don’t get caught up in comparing yourself to what everyone else is doing. I’m 32 and just went back to college. It’s okay to not have everything figured out. Just do you.”

For more information on Moraine Park, visit morainepark.edu.