Indianapolis, IN (March 2013) — Yvonne Fitzgerald, Director of Academic Advising at IUPUI University College, has been recognized as the winner of the 2012 Glenn Irwin Award. This award is given by IUPUI to faculty members who have gone “above and beyond their call of duty at work.” Fitzgerald has been recognized for her efforts and contributions to different organizations around the Indianapolis community, particularly in helping youth prepare for college.

Fitzgerald works with Girls Inc. of Greater Indianapolis, an organization that helps young girls in the community get involved in programs that deal with academic success, by facilitating groups and mentoring girls ages 6-18, emphasizing academic achievement and career exploration.

“I specifically facilitate sessions that encourage girls to lead healthy and physically active lives; manage money; navigate media messages; and discover an interest in science, technology, engineering, and math,” stated Fitzgerald. “I enjoy showing the children in the community what it takes to get into college and the dedication it takes to become a college student.”

 Fitzgerald also takes an active role in faith-based organizations and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, an international service organization for African American college-educated women involved in leadership and local and global community advocacy and service.

Fitzgerald said, “I am deeply honored for receiving this award and appreciate the people who are noticing my impact on the community.”

Fitzgerald graduated from IUPUI in 2004 from the IU School of Social Work and has been in University College since she began working as an academic advisor for IUPUI in 2003.

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For more information, contact Harriett Bennett at 317-274-5036 or email hbennett@iupui.edu.