Chosen for outstanding academic and service involvement

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) Office of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs and Enrollment Management has selected five graduating seniors as Fall 2011 Vice Chancellor Honor Recipients. Among them is Mary Birkel, a graduate of Nerinx Hall High School of Webster Groves, Mo., who was commended for both scholarship and participation in programs outside the classroom.

Already a non-profit leader and volunteer, Birkel completed a master’s degree in public administration from the Henry W. Bloch School of Management, earning a 4.0 GPA.

Assistant Professor Brent Never praised Birkel’s “balance between community engagement and academic excellence. Even as a student, she was a valuable resource in non-profit management discussions. Our department cannot think of a student who better exemplifies a commitment to public service.”

A full-time working student, Birkel volunteered with the UMKC Friends of the Library, Kansas City Free Health Clinic and the Kansas City Repertory Theatre, as well as local running organizations. She also worked with several local children’s programs, including Big Brothers Big Sisters, Mid-Continent Girl Scouts and the YMCA.

The Vice Chancellor Honor Recipients program was established in 1975 to recognize seniors who excelled in academic achievement, involvement in university programs and service to the campus and surrounding community.

The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), one of four University of Missouri campuses, is a public university serving more than 15,000 undergraduate, graduate and professional students. UMKC engages with the community and economy based on a four-part mission: life and health sciences; visual and performing arts; urban issues and education; and a vibrant learning and campus life experience. For more information about UMKC, visit www.umkc.edu. You can also find us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and watch us on YouTube.