Neumann University recognized more than 50 students at the annual Academic Awards Convocation on April 22 in the Meagher Theatre. Thirty-one academic awards, seven special awards, 20 Honors Programs certificates, and the valedictory medal were presented.

Sarah Roberts won three awards: the Sr. Jeanette Clare McDonnell, OSF Award for Excellence in English Literature, the Kelly Vaughan Chase Memorial Academic Award (one of five recipients), and the John A. Phillips Scholar-Athlete Award. A double major in English and Secondary Education, she played point guard for the women’s basketball team.

Kirstyn Heller won two awards: the Sr. Clare Immaculate McDonnell, OSF Award for Excellence in Art, Humanities and Franciscan Studies; and the Sr. Theodore Klingseisen, OSF Award for Excellence in Secondary Education.

For a full list of award winners, click HERE.

Jim Watson, a member of the Philadelphia Flyers Hall of Fame, delivered the keynote address. ”My faith gave me a strong foundation in my life,” he told the students and their families, adding “We need not to be afraid to profess our faith.”

Calling on his experience as a professional athlete, he offered some career advice to the assembled seniors. “Be grateful and humble, and you’ll always be successful,” he said.

Watson skated for the Flyers for ten years (1972-82), helping them win two Stanley Cups (1974 and 1975) and reach the Cup Finals twice more (1976 and 1980).  He and his teammates were also the only club to beat the Soviet Red Army team during the Russian squad’s North American tour in 1976. Watson is a two-time Barry Ashbee Trophy winner and five-time NHL All-Star.