June 06, 2008

University Housing hands out year-end honors

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s University Housing wrapped up the 2007-2008 academic year with the presentation of a number of special awards and recognitions. Honors went to individuals for their achievements and contributions as well as to various halls and floors of note.

The Resident Assistant of the Area Award goes to a resident assistant in recognition of their leadership, programming, administration, academics, extracurricular activities and rapport with residents and staff. Those honored include:

• Kahla R. Holtz-Fazzini of Emington for Brush Towers.

• Samantha M. Simpson of Momence for University Park.

• Fenjun Xu of Carbondale for Thompson Point.

Earning recognition in the form of various annual awards were residents, advisers, staff and more. They include:

• Jill S. Ehling of Herrin, adviser of the year.

• Daniel A. Pisani of Oakland, executive board member of the year.

• Katherine M. Rick of Waterloo, first-year student of the year.

• Sharolyn J. Hardy of Kankakee, resident assistant of the year.

• David A. Gilmore of Hoffman Estates, Resident Hall Association representative of the year.

• Tom W. Sienkowski of Herrin, spotlight of the year.

• Paul B. Stofko of Joliet, student of the year.

• Neely Hall, hall council of the year.

Programs honored include the blood drive incentives program as the community service program of the year, “Run For Your Life” as the educational program of the year, “Different Strokes” as the diversity program of the year and “Slam Dunks not Doors” as the social program of the year.

Grade Point Average Awards went to the three floors throughout University Housing that accumulated the highest overall GPAs. Baldwin Hall’s second floor earned top honors with the first floor of Abbott Hall taking the next spot and third place going to the second floor of Smith Hall. University Housing hosted an academic honors reception for all residents obtaining a 3.8 or higher GPA while living in University Housing.

Hall Council awards for special displays included first place to Neely and Boomer halls, second to Mae Smith Hall and third place to Wall & Grand Apartments.

In addition, SIUC took home several awards at the Illinois Residence Hall Association Conference, including best banner, best display and best philanthropy (for “Wish Upon a Star) while claiming a pair of “Top Ten Program Awards.”