Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University held its 63rd annual Alumni Awards ceremony on October 18 at the George Gervin GameAbove Center, recognizing four distinguished alumni for their contributions in various fields. The event was organized by the EMU Office for Alumni Engagement in collaboration with the Alumni Association Board of Directors and the Recognition, Awards, and Scholarship Committee. Ebony Walls, president of the EMU Alumni Association, served as the emcee.

“This is one of the most special events for our university, where we recognize alumni whose achievements and contributions reflect the excellence and spirit of Eastern Michigan University,” said EMU President James Smith. He noted that the honorees have made significant impacts as advocates, ambassadors, volunteers, and advisors.

Ebony Walls emphasized the importance of these awards: “The Alumni Awards highlight the achievements of alumni who have excelled in their careers and given back to EMU and their communities,” she stated. “This year’s honorees represent the best of our alumni network.”

The 2024 award recipients include La’Shardae Scott, John Tuttle, Judy Keenan, and Patrick Barry Jr., each recognized for their unique accomplishments:

- La’Shardae Scott received the Outstanding Young Alumni Award. She is president and CEO of a nonprofit assisting families with sickle cell disease. Scott also teaches at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work.

- John Tuttle was honored with the Alumni Achievement Award for his leadership role as president of Acrisure in global financial markets.

- Judy Keenan received the Distinguished Alumni Award for her advocacy work with labor rights through her position at the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.

- Patrick Barry Jr., a retired educator from EMU's Communication Department, was awarded the Dr. John W. Porter Distinguished Service Award for his extensive service to EMU.

Each honoree was presented with a crystal award and a golden eagle feather pin symbolizing EMU's tradition.

For more information about Eastern Michigan University or to view photos from this event, visit tiny.emich.edu/a7.