Honors Convocation
Apr 27, 2017
DUBUQUE, Iowa - The University of Dubuque celebrated student achievement with the 2017 Honors Convocation on April 27 in John and Alice Butler Hall, Heritage Center. More than 150 scholarships and awards were given or acknowledged at the ceremony that recognizes the academic achievements of seniors as well as those of first-year, sophomore, and junior students in specific academic areas.
UD bestowed high student, faculty, and staff honors upon nine individuals and one student organization at the conclusion of the ceremony. Here are those award recipients:
University Leadership Award – Abbas Alotaibi, a senior aviation management major and international student assistant in the Admission Department
This is the highest leadership honor awarded by UD, given annually to one college student. It is given to the student who has shown commitment beyond personal gain, served fellow students, encouraged and promoted positive actions in others, and demonstrated in his/her personal life the true spirit of the Mission of the University of Dubuque.
Senior Academic Athletic Award – Jacob Alstadt, a senior criminal justice major, men’s soccer; Amanda Harrop, a senior biology major, women’s golf; Anna Runge, a senior biology major, volleyball; Kiersten Wenthold, a senior psychology major, women’s cross country/track and field
This is the highest honor awarded by the UD Athletic Department. It is given to the student athlete who has demonstrated an excellent academic record and has made a major contribution to his/her team in the athletic area. The recipient must also demonstrate the personal qualities that are inherent in the Mission of the University of Dubuque and the Wendt Character Initiative.
Student of the Year Award – Marissa Joers, a junior business major
This award is given annually to recognize one undergraduate college student who exemplifies qualities of personal, college, and community achievement which UD seeks to honor. This student has an above average classroom record and is involved in campus and/or community activities. The Student of the Year is chosen by election of the University of Dubuque faculty and staff members.
Faculty Member of the Year Award – Rafic Sinno, an assistant professor of business
Given annually, this award recognizes a UD faculty member who is an outstanding teacher with a positive attitude, has the ability to motivate, and has earned the respect of his/her peers. The Faculty of the Year is chosen by election of the general student body.
Staff Member of the Year Award – Phyllis Garfield, director of international student services and study abroad
This award is given annually to a UD staff member who unselfishly devotes his/her time and energy in support of the University and its Mission. The Staff of the Year is chosen by election of the general student body.
Student Organization of the Year Award – Student Activities Board
Given annually, this award recognizes a student organization that shows dedication to campus involvement, leadership, and the betterment of campus life as a whole. The Student Organization of the Year is chosen by election of the general student body.
Student Organization Advisor of the Year Award – James Sizer, director of multicultural student engagement as well as advisor of the Black Student Union and Phi Theta Psi
This award is given to an advisor for a student organization who through their hard work, expert advice, and tremendous efforts have helped the organization grow and succeed. The Student Organization Advisor of the Year is chosen by election of the general student body.
