Scott Hudek believes character is defined by actions, not words.

And his actions spoke loudly on Feb. 14, 2008.

An Air Force veteran who was twice deployed to Iraq, Hudek, 29, is now a full-time NIU student who also works on campus in the university’s Veterans’ Assistance Office. He was at the office when he heard there had been a shooting at Cole Hall.

“My instinct was to get over there and see if I could assist,” said Hudek, who grew up in Downers Grove and now lives in DeKalb.

Hudek ran to the scene and was among the first responders, administering aid to the wounded using the basic First Aid training that he had learned in the military.

Kathy Johnson, Hudek’s supervisor, calls him a hero.

“We were locking down, and Scott literally ran out the door putting his coat on,” she said.

“He selflessly assisted emergency personnel without hesitation or concern for his own safety.”

Hudek contacted another veteran, who also came to assist victims that afternoon. He also made arrangements for a counselor from Hines VA Hospital to visit campus and work with students, particularly veterans, who were coping with the tragedy.

Hudek, who is majoring in political science, has demonstrated leadership skills since arriving at NIU in 2007. He is a member of the University Honors Program and serves as executive vice president of the NIU Chapter of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. He also has an impressive record of community service.

“Being a Huskie is about not only excelling academically but bringing others along with you,” Hudek said. “It means reaching out to those who are struggling and making a positive impact in the community.”