Latest news from The Crow's Nest, September 7th, 2023:
Park University has recognised several individuals for their outstanding contributions and achievements in various fields. The annual awards ceremony, held on Friday, Sept. 29, at the Graham Tyler Memorial Chapel on the University's flagship Parkville (Mo.) Campus, honoured a diverse group of recipients.
The 2023 honourees for Park University's four annual awards have been announced. Among them is Michael Collins, founder and CEO of Grayson Capital, who received the Distinguished Alumnus Award. Collins' success in the business world is a testament to the University's commitment to nurturing future leaders.
Another notable recipient is Paul Bilanzic, J.D., a 2015 graduate, who was bestowed the Park Promising Young Professional Award. Bilanzic's recognition underscores the University's focus on fostering promising talent and setting them on a path to success.
Virginia Chapman, adjunct instructor of computer science and information systems, was honoured by Park University's Office of Academic Affairs during the Fall Faculty Conference. Her dedication to teaching and her significant contributions to the field of computer science were duly acknowledged.
The Torchlighter Award was presented to Pat Fayard, who retired after 22 years as the assistant to the athletic director and athletics office manager. Fayard's commitment to Park University's athletic department and her unwavering support were celebrated.
In addition to these awards, Sandra Abbey, Ed.D., senior director of academic affairs at Park University's Gilbert (Ariz.) Campus, was recognised for her literary achievements. Abbey authored "Nine Secrets of Resilient Leaders for Coaching Teams: Creative, Collaborative Solutions for Today's Organizational Leaders".
The ceremony also recognised the achievements of Cathy Taylor, J.D., director of adjunct faculty orientation and mentoring, James Vanderleeuw, Ph.D., professor of public administration and director of the Hauptmann School for Public Affairs, Scot Cates, Ph.D., adjunct instructor of history, international business, and management, Lacey Finley, Ph.D., associate professor of management, and James Vanderleeuw, Ph.D., professor of public administration and director of the Hauptmann School for Public Affairs.
The Park University golf tournament, held concurrently, saw the participation of several teams. Registration fees for the tournament are $250 per golfer or $1,000 per four-person team. Sponsorship packages are also available, ranging from $1,500 to $5,000. Entries for the tournament include 18 holes of golf with a cart, box lunch on the course, driving range access prior to the event, on-course games and contests, refreshments, and flight prizes.
Amisi Mpole, a freshman marketing major and Parkville (Mo.) Campus men's soccer player, was awarded a $5,000 Emerging Sports Leaders Scholarship from Sporting Kansas City's Victory Project. This scholarship recognises Mpole's potential as a future sports leader.
The University's Gilbert (Ariz.) Campus Department of Athletics was recognised as a 2022-23 NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star institution at the gold level. This accolade reflects the department's commitment to academic integrity, character development, leadership, and respect.
Lastly, Dennis Okerstrom, Ph.D., professor emeritus of English, is the recipient of the 2023 Paul H. Gault Service Award. Okerstrom's dedication to Park University and his service to the community were highlighted.
Nancy Potter, a 1966 Park graduate, is receiving the Marlowe Sherwood Memorial Service Award for her volunteer service to community and civic organisations. Potter's long-standing commitment to service has made a significant impact in her community.
Melissa Ford has been appointed as associate vice president for advancement, effective Aug. 16. Ford's appointment is a testament to her dedication and contributions to Park University.
Donald Chrusciel, Ph.D., has been appointed as Park University's vice president of finance and administration, effective Aug. 28. Chrusciel's experience and expertise will be invaluable in his new role.
The details regarding the recipients of Park University's other awards, such as the Torchlighter Award and the Marlowe Sherwood Memorial Service Award, were not explicitly listed in the search results provided. However, the University encourages those interested to visit their alumni relations or awards webpage for the latest updates.
The 2023 recipients of Park University's awards have been announced, showcasing diverse fields of excellence. Among them, Sandra Abbey, Ed.D., was recognized for her literary achievements in the field of education and self-development. Meanwhile, the general news includes the acknowledgement of Nancy Potter, a 1966 Park graduate, for her volunteer service to community and civic organisations.
