The Alumni Association announced seven recipients of the 2002 Graduate of the Last Decade Award, which annually honors the achievements of outstanding Ball State graduates.
To receive the award, candidates must have earned a bachelor's degree from Ball State, display success in a professional field and participate in public service, nonprofit or professional organizations.
The recipients will be presented with a commemorative, etched-glass trophy during a special banquet on the Friday night prior to Ball State's homecoming game, said Russ Lawrence, assistant director of alumni programs.
"This is the fourth year we've given the G.O.L.D. Award," Lawrence said. "Up to eight people are selected every June to be honored during that year's homecoming week."
Erika Seydel Cheney, Indianapolis, Ind., a 1994 political science and journalism graduate, has been the director of the Office of Business and Legislative Relations for the Indiana Department of Environmental Management since 1998.
Young Colen, Gates Mills, Ohio, graduated in mathematics education in 1992 and later received a master of arts degree in international and Korean studies from Yonsei University, Republic of Korea, and a doctor of education degree from Columbia University. He is currently the chairman of the mathematics department at Hawken School in Gates Mills, Ohio.
Doug Fant, a 1999 graduate, is a kindergarten teacher at DeSoto Elementary School and computer technician at DeSoto and Albany Elementary Schools in Albany.
"I was really surprised to hear that I got it," Font said. "It was the last thing I expected."
His work includes Technohaven, a program designed to teach adults about computers, as well as Muncie Area Reading Council, Lisa's Run for cancer benefit, Burris Backyard construction project and various creative-learning exercises in the classroom.
"Getting this award makes me want to go out and work even harder," Fant said. "The G.O.L.D. Award means something different to everyone, because we're all doing our own thing in our own field."
Lawrence said he thinks Fant was nominated by a kindergarten student's grandparent.
Ellen Owens-Summo, Mesa, Ariz., obtained a degree in dietetic technology in 1992 and general studies degree in 1993. She is now working on a master of education degree from Northern Arizona University.
Stacy Paetz, Indianapolis, Ind., is a 1996 telecommunications alumna. She hosted ESPN's "Scholastic Sports America" and has since premiered on numerous Division I men's and women's athletic programs, as well as special-interest sports shows.
Krishna Thomas, New York, N.Y., earned a degree in English in 1997 and is currently assistant vice president and university relations manager of Bank of America Securities in New York.
Ryan Wiehler, Indianapolis, Ind., is a 1992 cum laude graduate with degrees in both Asian and actuarial studies. He is the founder of VISS Inc., which specializes in managed care and information systems consulting.
"Anyone can nominate a qualified graduate for consideration of the award," Lawrence said.
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
