Felipe J. Polanco of Garnerville, N.Y., was honored with a Student Achievement Award from Fairfield University's Alumni Association at its annual Student Awards Dinner. He was recognized for his leadership with Habitat for Humanity.

Known on campus for his commitment to social issues, Felipe worked to institute a Habitat for Humanity Chapter at Fairfield and then got it operating smoothly as its president. In organizing student support for Habitat, he helped to educate the campus community and raised funds to build or renovate homes for the inadequately sheltered. He describes Habitat as an organization that builds communities and families.

In addition, Felipe served as vice president of multicultural relations for the Fairfield University Student Association. In that role he organized the three-day Martin Luther King Jr. celebration, bringing in exceptional speakers and activities. This year he spearheaded the awarding of the first Martin Luther King Jr. Vision Awards to local residents who "instill and inspire the teachings and ideals of Martin Luther King Jr. in today's youth."

He also served as executive coordinator and co-chairperson of the First Year Experience orientation program and was a mission volunteer to Duran, Ecuador. Earlier this year he was awarded a Certificate of Recognition by the Connecticut Department of Higher Education for his leadership in community service.

An economics major, Felipe was selected to receive the Rev. William Hohman, S.J. Award in Economics, given to the senior who best represents the ideals of the founder and first chairman of the Economics Department.

Posted On: 06-20-2001 09:06 AM

Volume: 33 Number: 225