By Jennifer Batten
Memorial University’s Office of Alumni Affairs and Development has officially opened the nomination process for the 2013 Alumni Tribute Awards. Since the program’s inception more than 30 years ago, the university has honoured many distinguished Memorial graduates, including Dr. Kevin Major, Dr. William Rompkey and the members of the renowned group Great Big Sea, to name a few.
Dr. Penny Blackwood, director of Alumni Affairs and Development, encourages alumni and friends from near and far to consider nominating a worthy individual.
“Every year at the Alumni Tribute Awards ceremony, I am humbled by the accomplishments and success of our award recipients,” said Dr. Blackwood. “They are truly remarkable individuals and these awards give us the opportunity to publicly acknowledge the outstanding contributions they are making on local, national and international levels.”
Individuals can be nominated in four different award categories. Alumna or Alumnus of the Year Award is the highest honour bestowed on a graduate and it recognizes exceptional individual achievements. The Outstanding Community Service Award acknowledges alumni who have given of themselves to improve the lives of people and their communities, while the J.D. Eaton Award recognizes leadership and outstanding contributions to Memorial University. The Horizon Award honours young alumni who have realized extraordinary achievements before the age of 35.
Brian King, chair of the awards selection committee, notes the importance of celebrating the success of Memorial University’s graduates.
“I have been involved with the Alumni Tribute Awards for several years and I continue to be impressed by the calibre of entries we receive,” said Mr. King. “Alumni all over the world are doing incredible things, contributing significantly to the communities in which they reside, and I think it’s important that we take time to celebrate their achievements and their impact on Memorial University.”
Nominations are now being accepted and can be made by anyone. To complete an online nomination form or for more information, visit www.munalum.ca or call 1-877-700-4081.
The deadline for receipt of nominations is May 29, 2013.