Recognizing students, faculty and staff

This is an exciting time of the year at Norwich. As we approach the end of the semester there are many opportunities to recognize students, faculty and staff for their hard work, both inside and outside of the classroom. I would like to share with you a small sampling of the wonderful people we have at the university.

On April 13, the Dean of Students Office held a ceremony where it named senior international studies major Ashley Gavin "Student Leader of the Year." In addition to Ashley, three finalists - Kristina Quinlan, Willy Furnari and Chris Bean - were also recognized at the event, as was the Roy Looke Achievement Award winner Sophie Leclerc.

On April 22, The Center for Civic Engagement held its Annual Service and Service-Learning Celebration and Showcase. At this event more than 70 individuals were recognized for their outstanding commitment to service. Among those acknowledged were Norwich's AmeriCorps team participants, volunteers for the Alternative Spring Break and NU VISIONS Abroad programs, all of Norwich's student youth mentors, and the faculty and students who organized and participated in academic service-learning projects. In addition, Professor Susan Yesalonia received the "Faculty Member of the Year" award, Lisa Brucken received the "Staff Member Volunteer of the Year" award for her role as Civic Reflections Program facilitator and student Ashley Potvin was given the "Volunteer of the Year" award for her role in fundraising and relief efforts for Haiti. Six graduating seniors who have made service to others a top priority during their time at Norwich were also recognized. These students were Sarah Kennedy, Samantha Johnston, Brian Boyer, William Furnari, Ashley Gavin and Kyle Robidas. 

On April 27, the Military Service Awards Ceremony was held in Plumley Armory. The Military Service Awards - or Tri-Service Awards - allow the ROTC departments at Norwich to recognize outstanding Cadets who have achieved academic excellence and represent the values and traditions of our institution. After listening to inspirational words by guest speaker COL Mark J. O'Neil, USA, '86, more than 120 students were honored for their achievements while at Norwich. The Lewis E. Perry Memorial Award for the senior Cadet who has made the greatest contribution to all aspects of life at Norwich University was given to CDT James Young.

Another group of Norwich students who have excelled, in this case on the athletic fields, are the members of the women's rugby team. The Cadets have advanced to the National Women's Rugby Final Four championship. Norwich defeated Texas Tech 15-10, and East Carolina 34-0 to earn the right to go to the Final Four, which will be held in Steuber Rugby Stadium on the campus of Stanford University. The women will face a tough Washington State University team in a Friday afternoon semi-final match-up. We wish the Cadets best of luck in their quest for a national title.

The end of the academic year is quickly approaching. With papers and projects coming due and pending exams, this can be a very difficult time of the year. It is important that you make every effort to have a strong finish to the semester. Study hard and stay focused.  Summer is right around the corner.