Dean Maryanne Reed announced the top overall scholar in the graduating class and the top scholars in each of the School’s three programs at the SOJ’s December Graduate Open House on Friday, December 20.
This year’s top overall scholar is Brittany Lavenski. Lavenski, of Fairmont, W.Va., is also the top scholar in public relations. Her parents are Dawn and Larry Broadwater and Susan and Terry Lavenski. The top scholars in advertising and journalism are Patrick Odom and Karissa Blackburn, respectively. Odom is a native of Andover, Minn., and his parents are Michael and Alicia Odom. Blackburn is from Baisden, W.Va., and her parents are Clark and Kristen Blackburn.
During a ceremony in Martin Hall, Dean Reed also recognized the School’s Latin Honors students. Those receiving Summa Cum Laude (GPA 3.80 or higher) are Madison Blankenship and Brittany Lavenski. Magna Cum Laude (GPA 3.60-3.79) recipients include Karissa Blackburn, Erin Clark, Daniel Edwards and Patrick Odom. The students who received Cum Laude (GPA 3.40-3.59) are Alexis Bramer, Cameron Dye, Megan Funkhouser, Sara Garner, Jessica Guay, Angela Leonardi, Amber Murphy, Hunter Philips, Thomas Terrarosa and Shelby Toompas.
After the honors ceremony, graduates and their guests joined Dean Reed and faculty members for a reception in Martin Hall before attending the University’s December Commencement ceremony at the WVU Coliseum.