OA - Summer 2024

The G.O.L.D.E.N. Oak Award The G.O.L.D.E.N. Oak Award recognizes professional achievement, service and outstanding personal characteristics. Sydney Wilderman ’17, D.O., embodies the spirit of what it means to be a charismatic leader. She strives to be a caring and compassionate healthcare provider. She consistently puts others first, not only through her patient-centered approach to osteopathic medical care but also in her day-to-day life. In 2020, she obtained her Master of Science in Biomedicine and recently obtained her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine, both from Arkansas Colleges of Health Education. While attending The Woods, Sydney participated in various clubs and organizations, including the western equestrian team. Additionally, she was the 2016 recipient of the Dr. Theresa L. Gioannini Memorial Endowment for Women in Science and performed research at the University of Iowa. As an alum, Sydney stays connected with her former western equestrian teammates by attending virtual weekly workouts. She also volunteers at Seton Harvest, which provides locally grown food to people in need, and has inspired several alumni to volunteer with her.

Kymberli Payonk ’86

Frances Murphy Rumely Award The Frances Murphy Rumely award is presented to an alum who has demonstrated outstanding dedication to leadership within civic, religious or educational organizations. Kymberli Payonk ’86 has long been considered by her peers as someone who exudes the passion and compassion needed to make a positive impact wherever she goes. While a student at SMWC, Kymberli took advantage of every academic and self development opportunity to grow as a lifelong learner and leader. She was very involved during her time at The Woods and held several student leadership positions, including serving as Junior Class Treasurer and served as an eucharistic minister. Kymberli graduated Summa Cum Laude in May 1986, second in her class with a Bachelor of Science in Special Education. Kymberli has always had a passion for giving back and volunteering. In addition to volunteering with community organizations and programs, such as Reading Neighbors and Real Men Read, she also volunteers in the NICU at Union Hospital. One can hardly look around the SMWC Campus without seeing Kymberli’s loving handprint. Having served on the Alumni Association Board of Directors, she chaired the Celebrating Service Committee and still manages the Celebrating Service Facebook group, which shines a light on all the good work SMWC alumni are doing worldwide. Her outstanding dedication and leadership have been achieved through elevating others. Her genuine desire for goodness and spirited love and support for SMWC make her a deserving award recipient.

Sydney Wilderman ’17, D.O.