Faculty, alumni and politicians alike came out in their finest on Friday, Oct. 22, to the pay tribute to honorees of this year’s Alumni Awards Evening.

Southeastern’s most promising and exemplary alumni, students and organizations were honored for contributing the most to the wellbeing of the university.

“It’s a night we celebrate the alumni coming home, held each year on the eve of Homecoming,” said Kathy Pittman, Alumni Association director. “We are able to shine the spotlight on those who have done so much.”

Several awards were given during the ceremony to both individuals and groups, including the celebration of this year’s Alumnus of the Year Donald George.

“It’s a wonderful evening, celebrating Homecoming, celebrating our Alumnus of the Year Donald George,” said Southeastern John L. Crain. “It really exemplifies what Southeastern is about, giving people an opportunity to meet their dreams.”

Both Crain and George were presented Alumni rings by Pittman as per tradition on behalf of the Alumni Association and Balfour.

“Originally people could get their own alumni rings,” said Pittman. “They came in all different designs and colors, but now since we have partnered with Balfour, they have a standard design. Crain actually didn’t have a ring, so we gave him one as well as Donald George, and you could tell he was excited.”

Another prestigious award went to Amy Oberschmidt of the University Counseling Center. She received the L. E. Chandler award.

“This is such an honor for me,” said Oberschmidt. “What it tells me is that I’m doing the right thing and that I’m wanted to do more of it and do it better.”

A few student scholarships were awarded to exemplary students over the course of the evening as well, including one on behalf of the Student Government Association.

Also honored were a few student organizations, such as Gamma Beta Phi for having the top chapter in the nation and Alpha Sigma Tau for having the top chapter of its organization in the nation and for celebrating its 70th anniversary at Southeastern’s.

The evening culminated when Crain was presented with a check for $25,000 on behalf of the Past Presidents chapter of the Alumni Association by Guy Recotta, Hammond clerk of court, to be used as discretionary funds. The group aims to raise $150,000 for the school to be used as Crain sees fit.

“Tonight is just a great night for Southeastern, especially to honor the past alumni of Southeastern,” said Steve Pugh, state representative, District 73 “You know, Southeastern has really produced a lot of talent, and you can see it tonight with Donald George, the Alumnus of the Year, and such super talent not just from that area but worldwide. So my hats off to all the alumni from Southeastern, and go Lions.”