Chapple To Carry Student Banner at 2009 Graduation
April 6, 2009
LAWRENCE, Kan. –
Kansas softball senior Val Chapple has been given the prestigious honor of being a student banner carrier for the school of education at the University of Kansas’ commencement ceremony on May 17, 2009.
Traditionally, banner carriers are hand-selected students who exemplify excellence in their respective programs and have stood-out in their academic career at Kansas. Chapple was nominated by several faculty members for being one of their most outstanding students.
“During her courses in the school of education, Val consistently demonstrates her strong interpersonal skills through her leadership of secondary students, her interaction with peers, faculty, and school personnel, and her commitment to improving science literacy for all students,” said Jim Ellis, the Director of Curriculum and Teaching. “Val combines her passion for science with her passion for sports and not only will become an excellent science teacher, but also enrich the lives of secondary students as an outstanding coach and mentor.”
Associate Athletics Director and Senior Woman Administrator Debbie Van Saun added, “Val is an outstanding representative for KU both on the field and in the classroom. Her selection as a student banner carrier for commencement provides yet another opportunity to highlight her academic achievements.”
Chapple, who also tutors fellow student-athletes in math and science, has been a four-year starter at third base for the KU softball team. She was named ESPN The Magazine Academic All-American Second Team last season and is a two-time Academic All-Big 12 First Team selection. Additionally, Chapple was one of 30 college softball candidates nominated for the Lowe’s Senior CLASS Award this spring.
“I am so honored that I am nominated to carry the banner at graduation,” said Chapple. “The faculty at the school of education is in charge of the selection, and the fact that my professors and mentors believe that I am a good representative of my graduating class is a very flattering honor.”
