Eagle Spirit awards banquet set for June 21 at noon

Scott Csernyik

6/12/2002 12:00:00 AM

It's an annual event that honors Tribal members for academic excellence with their higher education studies.

The Higher Education Eagle Spirit Awards banquet will take place on June 21 at the Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort in the Saginaw Room from noon to 2 p.m.

Graduates from college degree programs, as well as students who earned high grade point averages or notched at least a 3.0 grade point average, will be recognized for their efforts.

Higher Education Coordinator Sharon Skutt said the Tribe is aware of the positive impact impressed upon the community when members achieve their educational goals.

"This is an opportunity for the Tribe to recognize the academic achievements of Tribal members," she said. "College and university students will be recognized with incentive awards and plaques for their determination and success."

This year, there were about 130 students in the Scholarship, Leadership and Youth Leadership programs. These programs include Saginaw Chippewa Tribal students from across Indian Country. There are about a dozen students graduating from various degree programs. About 30 students will be awarded the Outstanding Academic Achievement Award for earning a 3.5 cumulative grade point average or higher. Students who achieved at least 3.0 or better in their classes will receive the Academic Incentive Award and certificate.

Hunter Genia, who received a master's degree in Social Work from Grand Valley State University in May of 1999, will serve as the event's keynote speaker.

For additional information, contact Skutt at (989) 775-4505 or Tracy Reed at (989) 775-4554.

Eagle Spirit Awards were first given to members in 1996.