KINGSTON, R.I. –November 2, 2005–The University of Rhode Island has established a distinguished achievement award program.
The new program will roll all affinity-based recognition and awards, including the Alumni Association awards and several college hall of fame awards, into one gala event.
The inaugural gala, planned for next fall, will honor four to six distinguished alumni and/or friends of the University who have brought distinction to themselves and to the University through their professional achievement, outstanding leadership, and/or community service. Nomination forms are available online at: http://advance.uri.edu/alumni/achievementawards/ or by calling Lisa Harrison at 401-874-4962. Deadline for nominations is Nov. 30, 2005.
“There are numerous benefits to this kind of programming,” said Robert Beagle, vice president for University Advancement, who, along with Michele Nota, executive director of Alumni Relations, initiated the program. “This will help draw a wider audience to the achievements and attainments of University graduates and friends. It will also provide colleges and other groups that currently do not have a recognition program, the opportunity to participate.”
Additionally, the program reduces the number of events that URI constituents are being invited to and reduces the numbers of times external sources are contacted for table sponsorships or other forms of resource support.
“Our intent is to limit the honorees each year to keep the program manageable and interesting, and the awards themselves meaningful,” said the vice president.