SFU President recognizes highest honors at annual Convocation

Loretto, PA (05/08/2019) — Saint Francis University held its annual President's Awards Convocation on April 30, 2019 to recognize the community's most outstanding faculty, staff, students, and partners. The theme of this year's convocation was "A Global Vision", hosted by senior students Elise Dumouchelle from Ashburn, VA and Cory Kumpf from Imler, PA. A keynote address was given by Dr. Shlomit Flaisher-Grinberg, Assistant Professor of Psychology. Among the many awards presented during this event were the University's top four: Mr. and Ms. Frankie Award, Academic Achievement Award, Gerald and Helen Swatsworth Award, and Honor Society Distinguished Faculty Award.

The Mr. and Ms. Frankie awards honor the top senior male and female students at the University each academic year. Elizabeth Dyer (B.S. Biology) and Paul T. Kasunic (B.S. Chemistry) were awarded the prestigious honor by University President Very Rev. Malachi Van Tassell, T.O.R., Ph.D. at the President's Awards Convocation on April 30, 2019. The award is given to those who "exemplify scholarship, leadership, achievement and service to the University, as well as to the Community." This award is given to the senior students that not only show the best grades, sports and extracurricular involvement, but is the best overall student. This is the highest student award given at the University.

The Academic Achievement Award is given to the graduating senior with the highest QPA over their entire college career. For the first time, there was a five-way tie between students Gabrielle Beck, Isabella Bubb, Elise Dumouchelle, Rebecca Kasun, and Arlan Zelenky. Between these five students there are eight majors, seven minors, two Honor students, and a variety of leadership positions on and off campus. These five students will conclude their undergraduate careers with perfect 4.0 QPAs and are recognized for their brilliance, compassion, and being a privilege to teach.

Mr. Brent Ottaway, Associate Professor of Communications, received the Gerald and Helen Swatsworth Award, which recognizes excellence in teaching, research, and service. The Saint Francis Honor Society Distinguished Faculty Award was presented to Dr. Thomas Woods, Professor of Physician Assistant Science, in recognition of outstanding classroom instruction and leadership among the university faculty.

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