March 12, 2022

Rianda Wenther was selected to the prestigious Mizzou ’39 in recognition of her outstanding contributions to the campus community. This is one of the most exclusive honors bestowed by the university. Mizzou ’39 is a program of the Mizzou Alumni Association which recognizes 39 outstanding seniors each year. Seniors are chosen for their academic achievement, leadership, and service to Mizzou and the community.

Rianda distinguished herself among her peers by demonstrating academic success and service to the campus and community in no small part through her extraordinary contributions to the PCI as a researcher and essential member of the team.

Each recipient was asked to identify a faculty or staff member who has mentored them during their time at Mizzou. Rianda selected Dr. Ben Warner, director of the PCI, as someone who has made a tremendous impact on her Mizzou experience. 

In her nomination essay, Rianda wrote about her opportunity to develop as an undergraduate researcher, lead an independent research project, and develop her scholarly voice. Rianda was also a member of the team that traveled to the Iowa Caucuses in 2020 with the PCI. Upon graduation, Rianda plans to pursue a master’s degree from the Harris School of Public Policy at the University of Chicago.