California State University, Fresno honored eight individuals and organizations on campus and Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fresno at its annual Service Recognition Reception on May 4 at University House (the president’s residence).

The event celebrates the work of Fresno State students, faculty, staff, and the university’s nonprofit community partners.  Recognition goes to those involved with Fresno State’s American Humanics, Community Service Scholarship, and Scholars Service Grant programs, and with the Jan and Bud Richter Center for Community Engagement and Service-Learning.

While all volunteer service is recognized, Spirit of Service Awards are presented for the work of a few select people and programs that demonstrate exemplary commitment to community engagement.

The 2011 Spirit of Service honorees are:

  • Community Partner – Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Fresno
  • Faculty – Dr. Mark Somma, professor of political science
  • Staff – Jessica Medina, Advising Services’ Freshman Connect Program
  • Special Recognition – Student involvement by Student Activities and University Student Union
  • Student Volunteer of the Year – Cassidy Smith
  • Community Service Scholarship – Joshua Fine
  • Scholars Service Grant – Zaira Acevedo
  • American Humanics – Elizabeth Kuykendall

Richter Center benefactors and namesakes Jan and Bud Richter attended the event at which Fresno State President John D. Welty praised the university’s community service efforts, which in 2009-10 resulted in more than 1.16 million hours of volunteerism from the campus.

For more information, contact Renee Delport, Special Events and Projects Coordinator of the Richter Center, rdelport@csufresno.edu or 559.278.7063.

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