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

A dean’s list student and National Merit scholar, Walker will graduate summa cum laude with a bachelor of arts degree in American studies. She will attend the University of Missouri-Columbia law school in the fall of 2009, and plans to work in state government.

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.

Walker was a member of the Student Government Association and the Arts and Sciences Student Council, and volunteered at the Missouri State Capitol as a student lobbyist. As a member of the UMKC Honors program, she presented a paper at the Great Plains Honors Council conference; and her work appeared in the undergraduate research publication, Lucerna.

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.