UNC Greensboro hosted its annual Alumni Awards Ceremony at the Elliot University Center Auditorium Oct. 17, honoring four recipients who represented excellence in education and coaching, fine arts, nursing, and student support. Each has made significant contributions to their profession, community, society, and university.
Bobbi Osguthorpe ’83, who has impacted millions of lives through her work with the lifesaving technology Vacuum-Assisted Closure, received the Minerva Award for Distinguished Service. The award recognizes alumni who have given devotion, service, and visionary leadership to UNCG and the Greensboro community at large.
James Barnhill ’82 MFA, the sculptor behind several iconic Greensboro statues, received the Professional Achievement Award, which recognizes alumni with records of notable career accomplishments in their fields.
Marion Prescott Wray ’56, a trailblazing physical education teacher, coach, and athletic director, received the WC Legacy Award. It emphasizes the values of the Woman’s College era, including service and social activism.
Lasse Palomaki ’16, ’18 MBA, who helps today’s students prepare for successful careers, received the Young Alumni Award, which recognizes exceptional contributions made by alumni under 40 years old.
In remarks to the audience, Candace Martin, president of the Alumni Leadership Board, said, “It has been a privilege to celebrate these remarkable alumni—each an inspiring example of excellence, service, and connection.”