USGA, Student Life hosts awards banquet
By: Sumeet Patel
Issue date: 5/14/04 Section: News
Originally published: 5/14/04 at 1:49 AM EST
Last update: 5/14/04 at 11:02 AM EST
Originally published: 5/14/04 at 1:49 AM EST
Last update: 5/14/04 at 11:02 AM EST
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The purpose of the event was to recognize outstanding students, advisors and organizations for their contributions to campus life.
This year's theme, "Leading the Night Away," focused on the importance of leadership and the need for student organization leaders to inspire their fellow students.
A number of significant changes set this year's awards banquet apart from previous ones. Applicants were allowed to submit their applications online in addition to the traditional paper method. Additionally, the number of applicants increased considerably in comparison to past years; 40 people applied for the Student Leader of the Year Award alone.
The event began with opening remarks by men's basketball head coach Bruiser Flint, who was invited to speak about what it means to be a leader and the significance of teamwork.
"It takes a lot of courage to take on the role of a leader," Flint told the audience. "Everybody thinks your best player is the leader, but that's not necessarily true. The guy who is a leader is the guy who steps up when times are hard, when there are problems on the team or on the court."
Other noteworthy speakers included USGA President David Lee and Senior Associate Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students Dianna Dale. University President Constantine Papadakis was also present, discussing the importance of becoming a leader and the impact leaders have made on the University's image.
"You are leaders, and you have made a difference in our campus atmosphere and in the success of our University," Papadakis said. "This year I consider to be the best year of my presidency, and it is you, the leaders, who have helped the University to gain more recognition for all our efforts."
After the speeches, the ceremonies went forward with the presentation of awards, ranging from the International Understanding Award, which honors those individuals who help to raise international awareness and understanding on campus, to the Student Organization of the Year Award, presented to the student organization that exceeded the goals set out at the beginning of the school year.
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