Peese, Zgurich named Thiel College Student of the Month honorees for November

Posted November 09, 2022 Print

GREENVILLE, Pa.-- Thiel College announces Branston Peese ’23, of Aaronsburg, Pa., and Natalie Zgurich ’23, of Pittsburgh, Pa., as Student of the Month honorees for November.

The Student of the Month honor is awarded to seniors. It is among the most prestigious student awards at Thiel College with only six students each semester earning the honor.

Peese is pursuing majors in religion and theology and youth ministry. While at Thiel, he has been a member of the Phi Theta Phi fraternity, worked as one of the David Johnson Memorial Chapel staff, and has been a member of the Thiel Players.

Peese is a 2019 graduate of Penns Valley High School. Following graduation, he hopes to attend an Evangelical Lutheran Church in America seminary. He is the son of Michele and Wayne Peese, of Aaronsburg, Pa.

“I have appreciated my time at Thiel,” Peese said. “All of my professors have been open to helping those who are struggling, and care about the individuals in class.”

Peese is appreciative of Pastor Brian Riddle ’07, who was a great resource for him at Thiel. His advice, in both the academic and personal realms, has been comforting and reassuring.

“Through my introduction courses, to my internship, to writing my first sermon, and to whatever comes next, Pastor Brian has been a great mentor and I hope this relationship continues for many years.”

Zgurich is majoring in business administration human resources and management, and pursuing minors in English, economics, and health administration. She is the president of the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority, and she is also the captain of the women’s tennis team.

Zgurich graduated from Baldwin High School in 2019. She plans to pursue a master’s degree in healthcare administration after graduation. She is the daughter of Michael and Jennifer Zgurich and the older sister of Rachel Zgurich, all of Pittsburgh, Pa.

“Thiel has provided me the opportunities and skills to grow as a leader,” Zgurich said. “I am thankful for all the people who have helped me accomplish everything that I have done over the past three years.”

Zgurich would especially like to acknowledge Professor of Business Administration and Accounting and David M. Miller Endowed Chair of Accounting Professor Gary J. Witosky ’79, Library Director Tressa Snyder, Professor of English Mary Theresa Hall, Ph.D. and men’s and women’s tennis coach Gabriele Eaborn for all they have done to assist her throughout her college career.