University of Dubuque Bestows Awards at Honors Convocation

May 2, 2019 | University Relations staff

DUBUQUE, Iowa – The University of Dubuque celebrated student achievement with the 2019 Honors Convocation on Thursday, May 2, in John and Alice Butler Hall, Heritage Center. Over 150 scholarships and awards were given or acknowledged at the ceremony.

UD bestowed high student, faculty, and staff honors upon five individuals and one student organization at the conclusion of the ceremony. Here are those award recipients.

University Leadership Award – Marissa Joers, senior English major from Racine, Wisconsin

This is the highest leadership honor awarded by UD, given annually to one senior-level 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 or her personal life the true spirit of the Mission of the University.

Student of the Year Award – Marissa Joers, senior English major from Racine, Wisconsin

This award is given annually to recognize one undergraduate college student who exemplifies qualities of personal, college, and community achievement which the University 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 faculty and staff members.

Senior Academic Athletic Award – Kelsey Betthauser, senior wellness and exercise science major and women’s track and field athlete from Ellsworth, Wisconsin

This is the highest honor awarded by the UD Department of Athletics. It is given to the student-athlete who has demonstrated an excellent academic record and has made a major contribution to his or her team in the athletic area. The recipient must also demonstrate the personal qualities that are inherent in the Mission of the University and the Wendt Character Initiative.

Faculty Member of the Year Award – Kevin Cattani, associate professor of sport marketing and management and director of sports marketing

This award is given annually to a faculty member who is an outstanding teacher with a positive attitude, has the ability to motivate students, and who has earned the respect of his or her peers. The Faculty Member 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 staff member who unselfishly devotes his or her time and energy in support of the University and its Mission. The Staff Member of the Year is chosen by election of the general student body.

Student Organization Advisor of the Year Award – Kim Hilby, advisor of the Spartan Nation Liberation Foundation

This award is given to an advisor of a student organization who, through his or her hard work, knowledgeable advice, and tremendous efforts, has helped the organization grow and succeed. The Student Organization Advisor of the Year is chosen by election of the general student body.

Student Organization of the Year Award – African Student Association

This award is given annually to a student organization that demonstrates extraordinary 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.