Alumni Awards
2011-2012 Alumni Award Program
The Governors State University Alumni Association is now accepting nominations for the 2011-2012 Alumni Awards program. The Alumni Awards honor graduates who have made significant contributions to society and whose accomplishments and careers have brought credit to the university. Alumni awards will be presented at our Special Alumni dinner/theater (featuring The Color Purple) event on February 8, 2012.
The Alumni Award Criteria and the Alumni Awards Nomination Form are now available. Deadline to apply for this pretigious award is January 7, 2012.
2010 Alumni Award Winner
Congratulations to GSU alum, Melody A. O'Neal, winner of the Alumni Association's Distinguished Professional Achievement Award. Ms. O'Neal was selected by committee from the many nominations received.
Ms. O'Neal is a 1985 BHS grad. She is currently a healthcare consultant for her own company, O'Neal & Associates. Ms. O'Neal was the founder, president and chief executive office of Melmedica Children's Healthcare Inc., a highly successful pediatric private duty home car agency specializing in the care of medically complex, technology-dependent children in Illinois, Indiana and Michigan. She later served as chairman of the board and director of the Office of Strategic Planning for the Melmedica Children's Healthcare. In addition to her BHS, Ms. O'Neal is also a Registered Nurse (RN) and received a Masters of Jurisprudence in Health Law in 2002 from Loyola University School of Law. She is a frequent presenter and has several published works. She has received many awards and honors, and sits on the boards of several prominent organizations.
Ms. O'Neal accepted her award at the Alumni Association's Ailey II event on November 6, 2010.
2009 Alumni Community Service Award Winner
Congratulations to GSU alum, Gordon Cochrane, winner of the Alumni Association's first Community Service Award. Mr. Cochrane was selected by committee from the many nominations received.
Mr. Cochrane is a 1973 M.B.A. grad. He served as Assistant Dean in GSU's College of Business and Public Service from 1971 to 1974. His long list of volunteer activities include service as president and board member of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Committee; secretary of The 100 Men Association; board member of the South Suburban Housing Center; President of United Way in University Park; and University Park Jaycees member. Mr. Cochrane is also the recipient of several other community awards including The Paul Simon Unity Award in 2006; the Martin Luther King Jr. Image Award in 2001; the Monee Township Volunteer of the Year award; and the University Park Jaycee of the Year award.
Mr. Cochrane accepted his award at the University's 40th Anniversary Celebration Event at GSU on Saturday, November 7, 2009. His award was presented by Alumni Association President, Saundra Brunson.
