Upper Iowa University's Gamma Delta Phi receives Governor's Volunteer Award

Fayette, IA (07/06/2018) — Upper Iowa University's (UIU) Gamma Delta Phi was a Governor's Volunteer Award recipient during a recent recognition ceremony held at Gallagher Bluedorn Performing Arts Center in Cedar Falls. The UIU sorority was selected for a 10-Year Service Award after being nominated for the organization's participation in the Adopt-A-Highway program by Iowa Department of Transportation Director Mark Lowe.

"We love doing the community service work that we provide," said incoming UIU Gamma Delta Phi President Hayley Cessna of Spring Valley, Illinois. "The chapter works really hard to make a difference throughout the Peacock community and it makes us extremely happy to be appreciated and noticed for the work we do."

Additional UIU Gamma Delta Phi officers include vice president Autumn Weaver, Garner, Iowa; secretary Kelsey Simpson, Amboy, Illinois; pledge master Leah Holman, Reinbeck, Iowa; fundraiser chair Breyanna Hill, Oskaloosa, Iowa; and philanthropy chair Marissa Foels, Postville, Iowa. In addition to their participation in the Adopt-A-Highway program, the UIU sorority has been involved with National Smile Day, Kick Ball for a Cure, Fayette Appreciation Day, UIU Homecoming Week, and the community Easter Egg Hunt and Trick-or-Treat Canned Good Collection events.

Coordinated by Volunteer Iowa, the Governor's Volunteer Award program recognizes the dedicated people who volunteer their time and talent to help fulfill the missions of Iowa nonprofits, charitable organizations and government entities. The program provides a way for these organizations to honor their volunteers with a prestigious, state-level award.

"Receiving the Governor's Volunteer Award is a testament to Gamma Delta Phi's commitment to creating a better relationship between our University and the surrounding communities," said UIU Gamma Delta Phi Advisor Rebecca Wissmiller. "The members are devoted to the sorority's purpose and are passionate about what they do. I am very proud of these young women."

More than 500 awards are being presented this year during ceremonies held at several locations around the state. It is estimated that more than 20,000 hours of service, with an economic impact of nearly $500,000, were served by this year's honorees during the past 12 months.

About Upper Iowa University Founded in 1857, Upper Iowa University is a private, not-for-profit university providing undergraduate and graduate degree programs to about 5,800 students-nationally and internationally-at its Fayette, Iowa, campus, 20 U.S. education centers, as well as centers in Malaysia and Hong Kong. Upper Iowa University is a recognized innovator in offering accredited, quality programs through flexible, multiple delivery systems, including online and self-paced degree programs. With a focus on developing leaders and lifelong learners, UIU provides dual enrollment programs for high school students as well as continuing education and professional development opportunities for learners of any age. For more information, visit www.uiu.edu.

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Upper Iowa University Gamma Delta Phi advisor Rebecca Wissmiller (left) recently accepted the Governor’s Volunteer 10-Year Service Award from Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds on behalf of the UIU sorority.