SXU senior Alyson Kelley to be Student Laureate of The Lincoln Academy of Illinois

Education major to receive student achievement award

Chicago (Oct. 14, 2008) Saint Xavier University has selected senior Alyson Kelley, of Aurora, to receive The Lincoln Academy of Illinois 2008 Student Laureate Award. The award is granted every year to an outstanding senior from each four-year, degree-granting institution of higher learning in Illinois.

Kelley is being recognized for her overall excellence in curricular and co- curricular involvement. She is an elementary education major with a concentration in communication who maintains a 3.66 grade point average. She is working on her middle school endorsement and is currently student teaching social studies and reading for fifth and sixth grades at Mount Greenwood School in Chicago.

Kelley also has excelled on the softball field and served as team captain in 2007 and 2008. She has received numerous awards and honors for her athletic abilities. Some of her on campus work includes becoming a Resident Assistant, Quest Retreat Leader, FOCUS (Freshman Orientation Centered on University Services) orientation leader, Peer Mentor for the Transitions course and being part of the Peer Ministry program.

Kelley also received the McGuire Award from the School of Education in 2007. The award recognizes an undergraduate student who exemplifies the qualities of the late Dr. George McGuire, who was known as a caring and humane person, a thoughtful speaker, a focused listener, and a generous teacher.

“Alyson embodies the spirit of a Saint Xavier University student and lives the Core Values of excellence, integrity and hospitality in her daily work,” said Carrie Schade, assistant vice president for Student Affairs. “Her academic accomplishments, leadership and personal values demonstrate clearly the qualities of the Lincoln Academy Student Laureate Award.”

Kelley will be presented with the Student Laureate Medallion and a certificate of achievement at an October 18 award ceremony in the Hall of Representatives of the Old State Capitol in Springfield, Ill.