Oct. 31, 2007

Springfield, Ill. - On Saturday Oct. 27, Lisa Petty, former UIC cross country and track student-athlete was one of just 48 senior college students in the state to receive the Student Laureate Medallion presented by the Lincoln Academy of Illinois.

The medallion is given each year to one member from the senior class of each four-year institution of higher learning in Illinois. Students must show excellence in curricular and extracurricular activities and be nominated by their respected schools.

Honorees also receive a $150 honorarium and a certificate of achievement.

Petty, a four-year letterwinner for the Flames from 2003-2007, who earned All-Horizon League Second Team honors in the 3,000-meter steeplechase, feels very fortunate and privileged to represent UIC with this award.

"It is an honor," said Petty. "I honestly did not realize the magnitude of the award until I went to Springfield to accept the award. The ceremony was very elegant and sophisticated. I felt very lucky and honored to be there.

"I am very proud to have received the award and to be a representative of UIC and of UIC Athletics."

Petty has proven to be a role model through her achievements as a student-athlete and as an active member of the community.

"I think it is great that people think of me as a role model," said Petty. "It is funny to think that other people really notice the things that I do and would want to do the same. I always strive for the best and do everything to the best of my abilities. I enjoy challenging myself and others. It is just a part of who I am. It is nice to think that other people appreciate and admire those qualities."

Petty plans to graduate in December with a degree in secondary history teacher education along with a minor in gender and women's studies. After graduation, she plans on finding a teaching job in Chicago. She would also like to coach a cross country and track & field team and eventually go to graduate school to receive a master's degree in education.

"I love working with kids and I plan to do all I can for them," said Petty.

Petty also believes that students should take action when it comes to applying for scholarships.

"I would just encourage other students to apply for every scholarship or award that they are eligible for," said Petty. "Be proud of your accomplishments. You just might win."

UIC head cross country and track & field coach Jim Knoedel is proud of Petty's achievement.

"The words that come to mind when I think of her are hard-working, responsible, and driven," said Knoedel. "She has become a confident, out-going person that began to realize the many things she has to offer. Lisa is a great person. I can't say enough good things about her!"