Nominees sought for prestigious Wilson and Human Relations awards

By Katie Land, news editor

The fall semester marks a time for many senior students to reflect on the experiences of their college career and to determine if they meet the criteria for Oakland University’s annual academic and social awards.

As the most prestigious awards that Oakland offers, the Alfred G. and Matilda R. Wilson Awards are reserved for the top male and female student who is a demonstrated scholar, leader and responsible citizen in the community.

Strong candidates will have made significant contributions to campus life and have expressed an interest in the social problems of society and the community. This includes extracurricular volunteer activities, student organizations and other social initiatives.

Students must have maintained a 3.5 grade point average and have completed their academic work in the summer or fall 2009 terms or will complete their academic work by winter 2010 to be eligible for nomination.

The awards have been given out annually since 1965 to honor the Wilson family, who donated land and support to help found the university.

The annually presented Human Relations Award recognizes an Oakland graduate or graduating senior who has displayed significant leadership abilities towards advancing harmony within the university community.

A student who honors and promotes diversity between various cultures, race, gender and sexuality will be an excellent recipient. Contributions may include conflict resolution within or among groups and an increased understanding of cultures, groups and nations.

The major consideration for the Human Relations Award is the individual’s service to the campus community. Nominees must have maintained an academic record of 2.5 to apply. Students may be nominated by peers, faculty or staff and may also self-nominate.

Nominations for the Wilson Awards and the Human Relations Award must be returned by Monday, Feb. 1, 2010 to the Dean of Students Office in the Oakland Center, Room 144.

To apply or to nominate a student, view the application for the Wilson Awards and the Human Relations Award. For more information, visit the Dean of Students Web site at oakland.edu/deanofstudents or call the office at (248) 370-3352.