Manor College Honors Ukrainian Student with Prestigious Medal

Sofiia Ogerchuk receives the 2026 Mother Josaphat Medal, the highest student honor at the institution.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Sofiia Ogerchuk, a junior Psychology major at Manor College in Pennsylvania, has been awarded the 2026 Mother Josaphat Medal, the highest honor a student can receive at the institution. Ogerchuk, who is from Lviv, Ukraine, was recognized for her responsible lifestyle, reverence, respect, and service to the community.

Why it matters

The Mother Josaphat Medal is a significant award that highlights students who embody the values of Manor College, which was founded by the Ukrainian Sisters of Saint Basil the Great. Ogerchuk's recognition is particularly meaningful as she is a Ukrainian student who has faced challenges due to the ongoing conflict in her home country.

The details

Ogerchuk was praised by her advisor, Jennifer Buechel, for her growth from a 'brave yet somewhat shy first-year student into a confident, passionate leader.' At Manor, Ogerchuk is involved in numerous campus activities, including serving as a Presidential Ambassador, Peer Mentor, and co-captain of the Dance Team. She also volunteers with Compassion International and the Sisters of Saint Basil the Great.

  • Sofiia Ogerchuk received the 2026 Mother Josaphat Medal.

The players

Sofiia Ogerchuk

A junior Psychology major at Manor College in Pennsylvania, originally from Lviv, Ukraine.

Jennifer Buechel

Ogerchuk's advisor and the Director of Psychology at Manor College.

Manor College

A private Catholic college located in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania, founded by the Ukrainian Sisters of Saint Basil the Great.

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What they’re saying

“This award is a big honor for me, especially because Mother Josaphat was Ukrainian and founded this community. After so many years, I am deeply proud to be part of it and to serve my community, just as the Sisters of Saint Basil do.”

— Sofiia Ogerchuk (Northeast Times)

“Watching her grow from a brave yet somewhat shy first-year student into a confident, passionate leader has been remarkable. Sofiia has done – and will continue to do – great things. She embodies a rare balance: the energy, confidence and initiative of a true leader combined seamlessly with the kindness and humility that make people feel genuinely seen and cared for. Sofiia leads not only with purpose, but with heart.”

— Jennifer Buechel, Director of Psychology, Manor College (Northeast Times)

The takeaway

Sofiia Ogerchuk's recognition with the prestigious Mother Josaphat Medal highlights the resilience and leadership of Ukrainian students who have faced adversity, as well as Manor College's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive community that celebrates its Ukrainian heritage.