In recognition for outstanding service to students, Kimberly Ritter, International Student Activities coordinator, was named Advisor of the Year in the Golden Bronco Awards hosted by WMU’s Student Activities and Leadership Programs office.
     
Kimberly received the award at a Student Recognition Celebration held on April 16. WMU’s International Programs Council (IPC), which works closely with Kimberly, received a Golden Bronco award for Most Improved Student Organization of the Year.

The Golden Bronco Awards program draws attention to outstanding leadership at WMU, as demonstrated by registered student organizations and the members and advisors of these organizations.  Award recipients are nominated by members of the campus community and a University-wide committee composed of students and staff selects the finalists and award winners.
     
Rebecca Solomon, director of International Services and Student Affairs, said Kimberly and the IPC headed up by WMU senior Katie Smith, have provided exceptional cultural and social activities for the University’s 1,000-plus international students.
    
We are delighted with the recognition the International Programs Council received and also with the well deserved recognition given to Kimberly,” Solomon said. “Her advice and guidance have been an inspiration to the students she works with, and the results of her leadership have been remarkable.  The IPC leadership and members have worked very hard and have provided some fantastic programs for the university and community.  They truly earned the award for most improved student organization.
     
Kimberly graduated from WMU in 2003 with a degree in elementary education and taught in China for six months following graduation. She joined the International Services and Student Affairs staff in her current position in October 2005.