Alumni Hall was littered with tables dimly lit by tiny candles all around a brightly lit stage where student leaders and organizations were being recognized for their service to the university and to their community. On April 21, NEIU held the third annual Leadership Recognition Banquet. The evening started with a few words from President Sharon Hahs and a heartfelt speech from the outgoing SGA President, Jason Garcia.
Each year 12 awards are given to students and organizations that strive to improve the quality of student life at NEIU. This year the L.E.A.D. awards had a new award to give out: the Eagle Eye award. This was given to students graduating cum laude (3.5 or higher GPA), summa cum laude (3.75 or higher GPA) and magna cum laude (3.9 or higher GPA).
For individual’s awards, Peter Enger won the Wilson Media Award for his work with NEIU’s radio station, WZRD. Gilo Kwesi M. Logan won the Indelible Mark Award for student organization advisers. Kate Ekman won the Golden Eagle Award for showing “exceptional leadership skills” according to the L.E.A.D. Web site. Eduardo Arabu Jr. won the Legacy Award which is given to a student who has been in a leadership position for three years or more and has made a “significant impact” on the organization. Kimberly Murphy won the Pantheon Award for Greek members who excel in all areas of student and Greek life. Brendon Gross won the Golden Spirit Award for demonstrating a high level of “leadership, dedication, and a selfless commitment to others.”
For organization awards, the Northeastern Programming Board won the Blue and Gold Award which is given to organizations that work harmoniously and together as a team. The Green Cycle Group won the NRichment Award which is awarded to organizations that “enhance the learning environment” through innovative and creative ideas. The Future Health Professionals organization won the Soaring Eagle Award. This is awarded to student organizations that show a great commitment to providing service to those around them. The Socialist Club won the Trail Blazer Award which is awarded to strong organizations that continue to flourish and strengthen. The Feminist Majority Leadership Alliance won the Bridge Builder Award, given to organizations that increase the university’s awareness of “global, social, diversity or multicultural issues.” Gamma Phi Omega won the Mount Olympus Award which is an award given to a Greek organization that excels in everything a Greek organization strives for; community service, academics, recruitment, strong relationships with other Greek organizations, and more. Many people were there to support and cheer for the winners and finalists of the awards.