Answering the Call: How Serena Horstman Is Building a Life of Service

Answering the Call: How Serena Horstman Is Building a Life of Service
When Serena Horstman graduated summa cum laude from Butler County Community College this spring, she celebrated more than an academic milestone. Just weeks later, the 2026 Graham Scholar completed her firefighting training, another step in a journey defined by resilience, leadership, and a deep commitment to serving others.

This fall, Serena will continue that journey at Slippery Rock University, where she plans to pursue a degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice with a concentration in Community Corrections while exploring a minor in forensics. Her long-term goal is to build a career in investigations while remaining involved in firefighting and emergency services.

For Serena, both paths stem from the same desire: to make a difference.

“I always had an interest in why things happen, and I wanted to make a difference,” Serena shared about her decision to pursue criminology. Her interest in criminal justice began at an early age, inspired in part by watching crime shows with her grandmother and a growing desire to help others through some of life’s most difficult moments.

That same sense of purpose led her to firefighting.

“I found that I had a passion to help others, so the idea of doing that and protecting my community really intrigued me,” she said.

The road to achieving these goals was not always easy. Serena faced moments of self-doubt and the pressure of feeling that she constantly had to prove herself, particularly in firefighting. She encountered physical challenges and setbacks but remained determined not to let those obstacles stand in the way of her calling.

Throughout her time at Butler County Community College, Serena found encouragement from professors who believed in her potential, including Professor Lanigan and Dr. Steven Shaffer. She also credits her family’s unwavering support as a driving force behind her success.

Another source of growth came through her involvement in Phi Theta Kappa.

“Phi Theta Kappa showed me that I am more than just a leader,” Serena reflected. “I can make an impact in so many ways than just one.”

Through Phi Theta Kappa, Serena stepped outside her comfort zone, discovered new strengths, and embraced opportunities she never imagined possible. Looking back, she says one of her proudest accomplishments wasn’t earning scholarships or graduating with honors. It was learning to believe in herself.

“I am most proud of embracing the uncomfortable,” she said.

That willingness to embrace new experiences opened doors to leadership opportunities, meaningful relationships, and a future filled with possibility.

As Serena prepares for her next chapter at Slippery Rock University, she remains grounded in the purpose that has guided her thus far.

“My ‘why’ will forever be helping as many families as I can on their worst days,” she shared.

For Serena, service isn’t simply a career path. It’s a calling.

When asked what advice she would offer other students beginning their own educational journeys, her response reflected the mindset that has shaped her own success.

“Don’t be afraid of new beginnings and embrace the uncomfortable,” she said. “You would be surprised at how many opportunities show up when you are open-minded.”

Stories like Serena’s are powerful reminders of the impact scholarship support can have. Through the generosity of donors, students are empowered to pursue their education, discover their potential, and build lives dedicated to serving others.

Whether responding to emergencies, advocating for those in need, or pursuing justice through her future career, Serena is already making a difference. And thanks to the opportunities made possible through the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation, her journey of service is only just beginning.