63rd Annual Alumni Awards Celebration

October 18, 2024 at 4:30 p.m. EST

Eastern Michigan University continues its tradition of recognizing outstanding graduates who have demonstrated excellence within their professional careers and respective communities. In celebration of their achievements, the University hosted the 63rd Annual Alumni Awards on Friday, Oct. 18 in the George Gervin GameAbove Convocation Center.

In The News

Eastern Michigan University celebrates 2024 Outstanding Alumni Award recipients

Read the EMU Today Story

Outstanding Young Alumni Award

La’Shardae Scott (BS18, MSW22)

Scott is the president and CEO of the Scott Center for Observation, Treatment, and Transition, a nonprofit she founded in 2022 that assists families and individuals with sickle cell disease in transitioning from pediatric to adult care and focuses on reducing infant mortality in communities of color. Scott, also an instructor at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work, has been recognized for her advocacy, receiving honors such as the Shero of Health Award from the Ohio Commission on Minority Health in 2024. This award honors alumni like Scott, whose early career accomplishments and peer recognition showcase the value of an EMU education. Typically awarded to alumni within 10 years of graduation or under 35, it highlights Scott’s dedication to improving care for vulnerable communities.

  • About the Outstanding Young Alumni Award Expand dropdown
    The Outstanding Young Alumni Award is presented to alumni whose achievements have been signified by personal honors bestowed upon them by their peers and who have demonstrated the worth of their education through their post-college achievements. Generally, recipients have been graduates of Eastern Michigan University for less than ten years

Alumni Achievement Award

John Tuttle (BBA05)

As president of Acrisure, Tuttle oversees client relationships and historic public listings, establishing himself as a leader in global financial markets. The Alumni Achievement Award recognizes alumni like Tuttle, who distinguish themselves professionally, demonstrate the impact of their EMU education, and maintain strong connections to the university. This award is typically given to alumni 10 to 25 years post-graduation.

  • About the Alumni Achievement Award Expand dropdown
    The Alumni Achievement Award is presented to alumni who have achieved distinction in their chosen field, clearly demonstrated the value of their college education, and maintained a continuing interest in Eastern Michigan University. Generally, recipients have been graduates of Eastern Michigan University for ten to twenty-five years.

Distinguished Alumni Award

Judy Keenan (BS80)

Keenan, a longtime advocate for labor rights, has advanced workplace equity and safety through her work with the New York District of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, supporting fair treatment for American workers. Reserved for alumni who graduated more than 25 years ago and achieved extraordinary distinction, the Distinguished Alumni Award honors Keenan’s career in advocacy and public service.

  • About the Distinguished Alumni Award Expand dropdown
    The Distinguished Alumni Award is given to alumni who have achieved extraordinary distinction in their chosen field, demonstrated unusual service to others, and maintained a continuing interest in Eastern Michigan University. Generally, recipients have been graduates of EMU for more than 25 years.

John W. Porter Distinguished Service Award

Patrick Barry (BS71, MA73)

Barry, a retired educator with over 50 years of experience, was an instructor in EMU's Communication, Media, and Theatre Arts Department and previously taught at several high schools and colleges. He has served as a mentor and volunteer, including roles with the EMU Alumni Association Board and the Heritage Society. Barry received the Dr. John W. Porter Distinguished Service Award, which honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to EMU or the EMU Alumni Association, regardless of alumni status. His enduring dedication exemplifies this spirit.

Photo Gallery

View photos from the 62nd Annual Alumni Awards Celebration, where alumni came together to enjoy great food, and fun, catch up with old friends, and make new ones. During the event, four alumni were presented with awards for excellence in various categories.