Rising seniors take note, applications are being accepted to benefit those
worthy, who have shown exemplary service for the campus community and who
make a strong profound impact voluntarily.
The Volunteer of the Year Torch of Service Scholarship Award will be
presented in late April. Deadline for nominations is April 13.
However, prior to this date the recipient of this award must show
exceptional service.
Mary Holtman, director of alumni affairs, wants to identify candidates who
show significant special attributes. “This award is designed to select an
unsung hero who never is spotlighted, and has been the epitome of his or
her junior class,” Holtman said.
“We are expecting applicants to be individuals who are not of a financial
need or who have obtained a specific GPA. We want these individuals to be
able to show us their service and volunteerism, which says more about their
character,” Holtman said.
Contrary to belief, academic majors or financial need will not be the
determining factor in who receives the award. The only requirement is the
student must have at least a 2.5 GPA.
Mark Clark, last year’s recipient, states he was quite surprised he had
been chosen. “I was surprised I had been chosen to receive the award. It
was a scene that I’ll never forget. I knew I had been nominated, but never
really considered the chances of winning,” Clark said.
Clark also said students should not believe there is hidden formula theory
for winning the award. “I sincerely hope that there is not a particular
formula for winning the award. I think it is important for students to be
available to each other in as many ways as possible,” Clark said.
“We should remember that volunteering is an attitude, a way of life. It
should be something more than just something we do in our free time,” Clark
said.
The final decision will be made by a preselected group of student and
campus staff members. This would include the Senior Gift Challenge Steering
Committee, SGA president, Dean of Students and a representative
from financial aid.
“We want to recognize someone who gives of themselves and goes above and
beyond the call of duty,” Holtman said.
John Fisher, the first recipient of the award will be the guest speaker
during the Senior Torch Night Ceremony. Fisher, an alumni of 1937, will
speak at the ceremony April 29.
Applications are available at the Tyson Alumni House, 1609 Melrose Ave. For
more information, call Holtman at 974-5432.
