NSU Names Outstanding Seniors

TAHLEQUAH - On Friday, April 26, Northeastern State University named Zeddie Cantrell, Jr. and Sarah Vann, the top Outstanding Seniors for 2001-2002.

The Outstanding Senior Award program, or Jack Kaufman awards, are given to deserving seniors each year who are nominated by NSU faculty and staff. Award guidelines include that a nominee must: have a cumulative grade-point average of 3.25 or higher; have demonstrated his or her concern for NSU through campus involvement; and be an all-around student who typifies the spirit of NSU.

The NSU Alumni Association received more than 50 nominations for the 2001-2002 awards. Twelve students were chosen as 2001-2002 Outstanding Seniors. They include: Rachel Anderson of Enid; Zeddie Cantrell, Jr. of Bristow; Andrea Clark of Tulsa; Elizabeth Compton of McAlester; Amber Fite of Muskogee; Chad Fleming of Hutchison, KS; Adam Foreman of Tulsa; Maci Hamilton of Grove; Daniel Howard of Tulare, CA; Melissa Lovitt of McAlester; Selina McGee of Leedy; and Sarah Vann of Skiatook.

To say that these seniors are outstanding is an understatement, said Dr. Larry Williams, NSU president. They are all talented, driven and intelligent individuals who have freely given themselves to NSU, as well as a number of civic and student organizations. We are proud to recognize them as true campus leaders that exemplify our students as a whole.

Zeddie touched many lives while at NSU, said Suzanne Myers, NSU Student Activities director. His involvement was wide-spread and significant.

Vann, of Skiatook, also took home top honors. She is the spouse of William Vann and the daughter of Jim and Sharon Burton. She will graduate in May with a grade-point average of 3.6. She was nominated by Anita Thompson, Dr. Michael Turner, Dr. Chuck Ziehr, Dr. Joan Bell, Rachel Green, and Suzanne Myers. She is a member of Kappa Delta Pi Honor Society, Beta Beta Beta Honor Society, Indian University Scholar Society, Alpha Chi Honor Society, Whos Who, Northeastern Activities Board, and Rho Theta Sigma. She is an Redman Ambassador and is involved in Baptists Collegiate Fellowship and Campus Christian Fellowship.

She is a bright example of a student who personifies the student body of Northeastern, said Dr. Michael Turner, assistant to the President Williams.

Jack Kaufman began elementary school in 1915 at Northeastern State Normal School, where his father was a custodian in Seminary Hall. Fifteen years later, he completed his bachelor of science degree in education and began his teaching career. From that point on, his career and life were dedicated to helping students achieve their goals. Mr. Kaufman also never forgot his roots and was one of NSUs most active and influential alumni. He took great pride in helping and watching students of all ages accomplish their goals and find success. Because of his dedication to NSU and to students, the NSU Alumni Association board of directors named the Outstanding Senior program in honor of Jack Kaufman.

5/8/02

Published: 2002-05-08 00:00:00