The awards season has begun!

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And once again the key word has many meanings. In this case “awards” refers to recognition of accomplishments and scholarship funds.

Student Awards

Beginning with the former, today (March 29, 2009) was the “Student Awards Recognition” ceremony. This is one ceremony when I am not on stage and so sat in the back of the Eisenhower Auditorium and enjoyed watching the hundreds of students go forward to receive their awards. A full description of the awards can be found at the Office of Undergraduate Education website. The awards given were:

Undergraduate Scholastic Awards

  • The President’s Freshman Award
  • The President Sparks Award
  • The Evan Pugh Scholar Award – Junior & Senior

Student Achievement Awards

  • The Eric A. Walker Award
  • The Ernest B. McCoy Memorial Award
  • The Outstanding Adult Student Award
  • The W. LaMarr Kopp International Achievement Award

The Graduate School

  • The Graduate Student Service Award
  • The Graduate Assistant Outstanding Teaching Awards
  • The W. LaMarr Kopp International Achievement Graduate Award

As you might expect, a large number of Schreyer Scholars were represented, as well as many, many other great Penn Staters, so I will not list any particular students here, but I hope you all know how proud I am of all of your accomplishments.

Financial Awards

I know that many students who have just received their offer of admission are also eagerly awaiting word about additional financial aid. All our incoming first year students automatically receive the $3,500/year Academic Excellence Scholarship, as your letter of offer of admission stated. We also have additional scholarships that we have recently allocated. These funds were awarded based upon both need and merit. In order to determine if you have received any additional funds, either from the SHC or any other PSU unit (academic college or the Office of Financial Aid) you can log in to you MyPennState account and check there.

These are, of course, very difficult financial times and we are working hard to make as many awards to as many deserving students as possible. For further aid and advice on tuition assistance be sure to contact the Office of Student Aid.