UNC Greensboro will host its annual Alumni Awards Ceremony at the Elliot University Center Auditorium Friday, Oct. 17, at 7 p.m. This year, UNCG will honor four recipients. They represent excellence in education and coaching, fine arts, nursing, and student support. Each has made significant contributions to their profession, community, society, and university.

Bobbi Osguthorpe ’83, who has impacted millions of lives through her work with the lifesaving technology Vacuum-Assisted Closure, will receive the Minerva Award for Distinguished Service. It recognizes alumni who have given devotion, service, and visionary leadership to UNCG and the Greensboro community at large. 

James Barnhill ’82 MFA, the sculptor behind several iconic Greensboro statues, will receive the Professional Achievement Award. It recognizes alumni with records of notable career accomplishments in their fields. 

Marion Prescott Wray ’56, a trailblazing physical education teacher, coach, and athletic director, will receive the WC Legacy Award. It emphasizes the values of the Woman’s College era, including service and social activism.  

Lasse Palomaki ’16, ’18 MBA, who is helping today’s students prepare for successful careers, will receive the Young Alumni Award. It recognizes exceptional contributions made by alumni under 40 years old. 

UNCG has more Homecoming programming afterward. The Homecoming Bonfire will take place at the Rec Fields beginning at 8:00 p.m. The full schedule for UNCG Homecoming 2025 may be viewed at alumni.uncg.edu/homecoming.