ATHENS – The Athens State University Alumni Association presented the Distinguished Alumnus Award to Gayle Miriam “Mimi” Hughes at the Annual Alumni Awards Ceremony on Saturday, March 7th. Other individuals recognized that evening included the Outstanding Recent Graduate Award to Kelsey Ryon and the Deweese and Jim Beasley Appreciation Awards to Dr. Bert Hayes and to Billy and Deborah Putman.
(L-R)- Dr. Bob Glenn, Dr. Bert Hayes, Billy Putman, Deborah Putman, Mimi Hughes and Kelsey Ryon
Hughes is from Taft, Tennessee and earned an Elementary Education degree from Athens State College in 1981. She was honored because of her long standing commitment to social and environmental awareness.
Ryon is from Madison, Alabama and earned a Management degree from Athens State University in 2009. She was honored for her participation and guidance with the 2006 Danube kayak/swim. Ryon was the first person to receive this newly established award.
Hayes retired to Gulf Shores, Alabama and taught at Athens College/Athens State College/Athens State University from 1966-2000. He was honored for his impact and years of service to the University.
The Putmans are from Leighton, Alabama and own D & B Concessions. They were honored for their 24 years of support to the University at the annual Tennessee Valley Old Time Fiddlers Convention.
The Annual Alumni Association Meeting followed the ceremony where Jackie Wolfe, Class of 1994, was installed as the 2015-2017 Alumni Board President.
MEDIA RELEASE/ATHENS STATE UNIVERSITY/GUY MCCLURE
