The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management has named Janita M. Butler a 2009 Honor Award recipient, one of 10 graduating seniors commended for both academic achievements and participation in programs outside the classroom.

Butler graduates with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education. A Dean’s List student and participant in the Institute for Urban Education (IUE) program, Butler will satisfy the terms of her IUE scholarship by teaching in the Kansas City, Missouri School District for at least four years. At the same time, she will work toward a master’s degree in higher education at UMKC to prepare for working with college students.

The honor award program was established in 1975 to recognize graduating seniors who excelled in academic achievement, involvement in university programs and service to the campus and surrounding community.

Butler volunteered as a peer coach and was part of the planning committee for the new Student Center. She also was involved in campus recycling efforts and other community service work. Through the Division of Diversity, Access and Equity, she participated in African American and Hispanic Youth Days to acquaint minority students with the benefits of higher education.

The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), one of four University of Missouri campuses, is a public university serving more than 14,000 undergraduate, graduate and professional students. UMKC engages with the community and economy based on a three-part mission: visual and performing arts, health sciences, and urban engagement.