Akron, Ohio, May 25, 2007 - The University of Akron recently presented LIFE (Legacy, Integrity, Fellowship and Excellence) Awards, which included honoring two faculty members, at this annual end-of-the-year, all-campus recognition and celebration.

Dr. RaJade Berry James of Copley, an associate professor in the Department of Public Administration and Urban Studies, received the Students' Choice Award. This honor is bestowed upon a faculty member based upon student vote, with the deserving recipient making a significant impact on students' education and lives.

James was honored for creating constant opportunities for her students. She is the adviser for Phi Alpha Alpha National Honor Society for Public Administrators, where she helps to develop and facilitate a lunchtime lecture series that presents issues on cultural competence. Aside from her teaching and research, she is also a mentor to graduate students.

Outside the classroom, James manages two federally funded evaluation projects for the Community Health Center of Akron, which focus on providing social services for minorities as well providing counseling for substance abusers and their families.

Dr. Mary Verstraete of Copley, an associate professor in biomedical engineering, received the Outstanding Advisor Award. This award is bestowed upon a faculty or contract professional who volunteers his or her time to help students learn and develop in their college careers. The deserving adviser helps student leaders set priorities, establish goals, recruit members, develop meeting agendas, plan activities, solve problems, coordinate travel to regional and national conferences, and strategize competitions.

During her 19 years of service at The University of Akron, Verstraete has dedicated herself to assisting students. In addition, she was instrumental in the creation of an ABET (the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology, the recognized accreditor for college and university programs in applied science, computing, engineering and technology) accredited undergraduate degree program at UA that graduates engineers who are in demand in the workplace, as well as in graduate and medical schools.

Verstraete earned her bachelor of science, masters of science and doctoral degrees in engineering mechanics/biomechanics from Michigan State University. She is a member of several professional and honorary societies including the Biomedical Engineering Society, the American Society of Biomechanics, the American Society of Engineering Education and the Society of Women Engineers. She also serves as interim director of the College of Engineering's Women in Engineering Program.