Those seniors looking for a little recognition before graduation can pick up their applications now.

The 25 Most Distinguished Seniors, sponsored by the SIU Alumni Association and the SIU Student Alumni Council, began its application period Monday. According to Tuesday Ashner, director of campus alumni programs, the program works to recognize seniors with high grade point averages who have been active in campus programs and services, as well as contributions to the community at large.

“The committee looks at the whole picture of that person,” Ashner said.

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The committee selected to review applications is made up of students, alumni and SIUC staff. Ashner said having a diverse committee helps each group bring something different to the review process.

Kenneth Burrows, who was recognized in 2007 as one of SIUC’s Most Distinguished Seniors, said the award is a great way to gain recognition for achievements and hard work in a student’s college career.

“I think it’s a great opportunity,” Burrows said. “It goes a long way.”

While at SIUC, Burrows was part of service groups such as Habitat for Humanity and Highway Clean-up, as well as an active member of Alpha Eta Rho and Air Force ROTC. Burrows said his contributions and hard work were the reasons he was recognized.

Winners of the 25 Most Distinguished Seniors will be awarded with a first year membership in the SIU Alumni Association, a small gift, a certificate of recognition and a banquet hosted by the chancellor’s office for the recipients and their families.

“The students really enjoy it,” Ashner said. “SIU has so many outstanding students.”

Those interested in applying must be seniors graduating in 2008 and have at least a 3.0 GPA. In addition to the application, seniors must turn in a copy of their transcript and a letter of recommendation from an RSO adviser or president, a faculty or staff member, a housing coordinator or a coach.

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Applications for the 25 Most Distinguished Seniors are available at the Alumni Association’s Web site. All are due March 7 and, according to Ashner, all applicants will be notified of the results approximately March 21.

“We don’t leave anybody hanging,” Ashner said.

Madeleine Leroux can be reached at 536-3311 ext. 270 or [email protected].