The Bradley University Family Board of Directors established the Student Recognition Award in 2009. The award is presented at the Student Leadership Reception in May of each year.
This Student Recognition Award recognizes the outstanding contributions of a Bradley University student who has contributed to the success of the University through their personal commitment and enthusiasm for the betterment of its student body, academic or co-curricular departments, student organizations, the Peoria community and the University as a whole.
The recipient of the Student Recognition Award receives a $1,000 monetary award and a certificate. Funding for this annual award is made available through the generosity of the Alice and Thadd Bush family. Alice, Thadd and their two daughters, Alicia and Samantha, are all Bradley University graduates. The Bush family gives this award in memory of Dr. Ray Zarvell who worked at Bradley University from 1968 - 2007. During his tenure, Dr. Zarvell held several different positions including the Executive Director of the Center for Student Development and Health Services. where he impacted the lives of thousands of students as he oversaw counseling, testing, orientation, advisement, learning assistance and peer counseling programs. Dr. Zarvell passed away in the spring of 2017 and this award serves as a wonderful legacy to the difference he made on campus.
