The Eastern Washington University Alumni Association recognized alums who have made outstanding community contributions throughout their lifetime at the 2012 EWU Alumni Awards Saturday, May 12 in the second floor foyer of Hargreaves Hall on the Cheney campus.
The event recognized alumni who lead and inspire others to great heights as well as providing an opportunity to bring a new class of alumni into an organization they will represent for a lifetime.
After completing a nomination process, six winners were selected by a group of alumni peers.
The Lifetime Achievement award was given to an alumnus who has demonstrated a lifetime of commitment to EWU and its values, Gordon Budke. A 1963 graduate in business administration Budke spent 34 years working at Coopers and Lybrand where he would become partner after 17 years. While completing all these accolades he is still married to his college sweet heart of 50 years, Rhonda, whom he shares three sons and four grandchildren. His presence can be felt throughout the community because of his high involvement with boards and committees in Spokane.
On the other end of the spectrum the first-ever Young Alumnus Award was given to Lance Kissler. This award is given to someone who has achieved professional and community success within the first 15 years of being an alumnus. Kissler graduated in 2004 with a bachelor degree in graphic communications and in 2010 he received his masters in communications, both from EWU. He currently serves as the media-marketing officer for Spokane Teachers Credit Union, which is receiving the Oganization of Excellence Award for its continued efforts to help further the success of EWU and the Alumni Association.
Along with these fore mentioned awards, Dr. Travis Denton received the Distinguished Faculty Award for his dedication to the university through helping current students from an alumni perspective. Libby Hein received the Alumnus of Service Award for her continued dedication to serving the EWU community, and Brig. Gen. Gary Volesky received the Military Service Award for his dedication to Eastern along with his distinguished service to our nation.
Reader Comments(0)