University of Dubuque Bestows Awards at Honors Convocation

Apr 16, 2021 | University Relations staff

DUBUQUE, Iowa – The University of Dubuque recognized the many achievements by students and their involvement in campus life at Honors Convocation on April 15, 2021. To accommodate proper health and safety protocols, the in-person audience in John and Alice Butler Hall, Heritage Center was limited to award presenters and recipients. The ceremony was livestreamed at www.facebook.com/UDubuque and www.youtube.com/UDBQMedia.  

Over 180 scholarships and awards were given or acknowledged at the ceremony. UD bestowed high student, faculty, and staff honors upon six individuals and one student organization towards the conclusion of the ceremony. Here are those award recipients.

University Leadership Award
En-Yu (Sam) Wu (C’21) – Nursing Major from Taiwan

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
En-Yu (Sam) Wu (C’21) – Nursing Major from Taiwan

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 Award is chosen by election of the University faculty and staff members.

Senior Academic Athletic Award
Lexi Schmidt (C’21) – Communication Major and Softball Player from West Point, Iowa

This is the highest honor awarded by the 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 inherent in the Mission of the University and the Wendt Character Initiative.

Faculty Member of the Year Award
John Shook – Head of the Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice

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 peers. The Faculty Member of the Year Award is chosen by election of the general student body.

Staff Member of the Year Award
Dawn Koopmann – Custodian

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 Award is chosen by election of the general student body.

Student Organization Advisor of the Year Award
James Sizer – Director of Multicultural Student Engagement

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

Student Organization of the Year Award
Active Minds

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 Award is chosen by election of the general student body.

Inclusive Excellence Award
Angela Brandel – Professor of Education

This award is presented to a faculty or staff member who has demonstrated a commitment to inclusion and equity within the University community. The Inclusive Excellence Award is chosen by election of the general student body.

Please click here to view the Honors Convocation program.