Lesson #004: The world has the Grammys. GW has the Excellence Awards.

Disclaimer: This picture is in no way a depiction of the events discussed in this piece. That is A-list actress Claire Danes. However, one day, that can be how you feel once you do win an Excellence in Student Life Award here at GW.

Lesson #004: The world has the Grammys. GW has the Excellence Awards.

Good evening, buff and blue Colonials! One week ago to the day was the 27^th Annual Excellence in Student Life Awards. It was my first time attending the awards, but, beforehand, I had consistently heard it referred to as the Grammy’s of The George Washington University. That may sound ridiculous at first thought, however it’s a good comparison.

You will definitely be hearing more about my affinity for Capital Funk (@CapitalFunk), performance group of the year, within the week, since this Sunday is the annual Capital Funk Showcase!

For one, there are performances, by groups like Capitol Funk and the Voice Gospel Choir.

Secondly, the glitz and glamour of the event are unparalleled, as students, staff, and faculty came together, all dressed in business formal attire, to celebrate the individuals who have improved the student life experience.

Colonial Army (@GWColonialArmy) won Student Organization of the Year in years past (and we're going to win the same award next year!)

Organizations and individuals all across the board were nominated. In fact, at the 20^th Annual Excellence Awards, Colonial Army picked up a notable victory for Student Organization of the Year. This year, however, I was attending with GW Students Against Sexual Assault, which has consistently put on sexual assault awareness programming across campus, including popular events like Take Back the Night and Walk A Mile in Her Shoes. When the final award, the Pyramid Award for Student Organization of the Year, was announced, Colonial Army and GW Students Against Sexual Assault were among the many organizations nominated.  The winners were then announced: Active Minds at George Washington University, the South Asian Society, and GW STUDENTS AGAINST SEXUAL ASSAULT!!!

Supporters of SASA, as well as CADE (the Center for Alcohol and other Drug Education), as well as GWise, broke out in celebration of the win for GW Students Against Sexual Assault, being that the organization, led by CADE advisor Ivonne Ramirez, President Emily Rasowsky (who also won an individual award), and Vice-President Jane Markowitz, has worked tirelessly to provide programming to the GW community regarding sexual assault. I was shocked when I realized I had to stand up with the rest of SASA to accept the award. I could not remove the grin from my face if I tried! I was smiling uncontrollably, all the while trembling with disbelief and excitement that our hard work paid off. I felt like a real part of it all, especially since I’d been Member of the Month just last month.

Afterwards, we took pictures with the Dean of Students, Peter Konwerski, as well as the presenters of the award. In fact, I just got my hands on the pictures from the reception afterward. Believe me when I say that I could not get rid of that smile all night!

(L to R) Me with SASA's graduate advisor, Ivonne Ramirez, and senior Summer Newman.. and of course the award!

Me with my former House Proctor, Courtnay Oddman, and with our respective awards. She won a spot on the Wall of Fame.

When you come to GW, you too can become "Excellent", whether alone or with a group. Whether you or a friend are nominated, one thing is sure: the Excellence Awards are a "can't miss" event happening once a year on campus. The GW stars come out and, if the stars are aligned, you'll come walking out with an award just like SASA and the other individuals and student organizations honored that evening!

Stay classy, future Colonials. Whether in your buff, your blue, or a suit and tie, don't forget to Raise High!

Sincerely,

Matt
mtscott@gwu.edu