(Midway, Ky.) – During its 2016 Commencement ceremony, Midway University presented its Midway Woman Award to Irene Alcaraz-Perez of Versailles, Ky.
The award is given annually to a Women’s College graduating senior who demonstrates a profound sense of service to others; is an outstanding leader and role model; and is of strong character. Additionally, the recipient of the Midway Woman Award must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher. This Award is designed to recognize the core values that the institution holds as critical for its graduates’ future success.
“During her four years on campus, Irene has exemplified what it means to be a Midway Woman,” said Dr. John P. Marsden, President. “She has excelled in her studies and been a tireless leader in serving her community. We are proud to count her as an alumna of Midway University.”
During her time at Midway, Alcaraz-Perez gave back to the community in various ways, including being a PATH mentor to young minority women since the inception of the program, volunteering at the Latino Leadership College Experience every summer and with the Color of Education, a non-profit organization that encourages minority high school students to pursue higher education. She also coordinated a campus-wide water drive to benefit those experiencing the water crisis in Flint, Michigan and traveled on the Alternative Spring Break trip in 2016 to help rebuild a house for Hurricane Katrina victims in the Lower Ninth Ward of New Orleans. Further, she proudly represented Midway University at the International National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education and the New Life Counseling Center.
Alcaraz-Perez received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and hopes continue to advocate for social justice and serve the community as a Clinical Psychologist, working with young people, couples or multicultural populations.