Delaware Tech Alumna Receives 2021 André Higgins Leadership Award

Shanon Hope Vella was recently awarded with the 2021 André Higgins Leadership Award by the Owens Campus Alumni Chapter. The award was established in honor of Delaware Tech alumnus André Higgins, a 1989 journalism technology graduate who was employed as the Sussex County Bureau Chief for the Daily Times prior to his death at age 26. As a Delaware Tech alumnus, he helped to craft the parameters for this award which bears his name.

Vella was nominated by Michele Warch, human services department chairperson; Elizabeth Geller, assistant to the dean of instruction; and Malinda Hudson, human services instructor. Through this nomination, the members of the Owens Alumni Chapter discovered the many ways Vella advocated for others on a local and national level. In 2018, she suffered leg injuries and had to learn to walk and drive again.

“I was in shock when I found out that I was the recipient of this award,” Vella said. “I'm honored that the Alumni Association felt that my community contributions are worthy of praise. This award proved to me that I am enough; even with my physical limitations, I am a productive and valuable member of society.”

Nominations for this award were submitted by Delaware Tech faculty and staff. Criteria for selection include a current graduate for the nomination period, a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or higher, strength of character, and service to the community and to Delaware Tech by volunteering time, participating in various organizations, tutoring, supporting athletics, or engaging in other service activities.

For more information on the Delaware Tech Alumni Association, visit dtcc.edu/alumni.

PHOTO:
Pictured L-R: Gail Charrier, dean of student affairs; Dr. Bobbi Barends, vice president & campus director; Shanon Hope Vella, award recipient; Michele Warch, human services department chairperson; and Elizabeth Geller, assistant to the dean of instruction.