PULLMAN, Wash.Since 1996, the President’s Award at Washington State University has been bestowed annually to less than 1% of the university’s undergraduate, graduate and professional students who exemplify exceptional leadership and service to the university community. Students are selected based on their leadership and engagement consistent with the university’s values of inquiry and innovation, character, teamwork and diversity.
The program began under the leadership and vision of Virginia E. Thomas, who served as the director of the Leadership Center at WSU from 1995 to 2003, and will now include the honoring of a student leader in her name. Established by Thomas’ colleagues, friends and students, the Virginia E. Thomas Endowed Leadership Scholarship honors a legacy of excellence, integrity and character, discovery and service.
“Virginia Thomas is one of my heroes. As a student leader, I discussed nearly every decision I made with her and it did not take long to realize that she was far more than an advisor. She was truly a special friend. I am so proud to be a part of creating this scholarship and I know she would be pleased that her memory has inspired her friends to reward students who care passionately about serving their campus community. The ethical and passionate pursuit of worthwhile causes was Virginia’s daily focus throughout her life and this endowed scholarship will help keep Virginia’s legacy living on at WSU,” said Steve Wymer, ASWSU president 1998-2001.
Nominations for the President’s Award as well as applications and recommendation forms, are available at: www.lead.wsu.edu. Nominations are due Feb. 20, with applications and recommendations due March 20.
