

SWANA - WI Badger Chapter

Brenda Lee Quinnell Rising Leader Scholarship
Special Award for Badger Chapter: Category I, II, or III students who demonstrate leadership, commitment, and passion. The recipient of this award will be forwarded for National Award Consideration.
​In August 2018 the solid waste and recycling community lost one of its most devoted members. Brenda Quinnell, director of the Adams County Solid Waste Department, served for over 10 years as the Wisconsin Badger Chapter’s administrative assistant. During her years of service Brenda was much more than an “assistant”, she was a leader. Brenda kept chapter presidents and monthly meetings on task, filed annual financial reports, organized in person meetings, and played a major role in Wisconsin Integrated Resource Management Conference (WIRMC) planning.
Meleesa Johnson, Director of the Marathon County Solid Waste Department, put it best when she said, “Brenda was the glue that held [the chapter] together.”
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Beyond her dedication to the chapter, Brenda was a welcoming presence. In a forum like SWANA, where many of the meetings and communications are held over the phone or via email, it can be difficult to get to know someone. That was not so with Brenda who's warm voice and kind nature traveled through the phone and email waves with each communication. Brenda guided new members through the committee

​​ structure and helped promote and organize young professional events. She was a true mentor and always willing to share her knowledge and experience.
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For these reasons, and many more, the Wisconsin Badger Chapter is proud to offer the Brenda Lee Quinnell Rising Leader Scholarship. Each year, this scholarship will be awarded to an individual who demonstrates the following characteristics or actions through their application and essay(s):
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Searches for extra opportunities in school, community, work, or the solid waste and recycling industry
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Inspires others through mentorship, integrity, creativity, and his or her ability to communicate
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Commitment, enthusiasm, passion, and accountability towards an organization or activity
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The recipient of this award will be forwarded for National Award Consideration.