EMU Today

YPSILANTI – Eastern Michigan University recognized the achievements of four distinguished alumni at its 63rd annual Alumni Awards ceremony on Friday, Oct. 18, at the George Gervin GameAbove Center. Organized by the EMU Office for Alumni Engagement in partnership with the Alumni Association Board of Directors and the Recognition, Awards, and Scholarship Committee, the invite-only event celebrated the outstanding contributions of EMU graduates across various fields. The ceremony was emceed by Ebony Walls, president of the EMU Alumni Association.

“This is one of the most special events for our university, where we recognize alumni whose achievements and contributions reflect the excellence and spirit of Eastern Michigan University,” said EMU President James Smith. Our honorees have made lasting contributions as advocates, ambassadors, volunteers, and advisors, impacting our community in profound ways.”

Ebony Walls, president of the EMU Alumni Association, spoke to the significance of the awards. “The Alumni Awards highlight the achievements of alumni who have excelled in their careers and given back to EMU and their communities,” said Walls. “This year’s honorees represent the best of our alumni network, and we are proud to celebrate their accomplishments and inspire future generations of EMU Eagles.”

2024 Alumni Award recipients:

• La’Shardae Scott - Outstanding Young Alumni Award: Scott is the president and CEO of the Scott Center for Observation, Treatment, and Transition, a nonprofit she founded in 2022 that assists families and individuals with sickle cell disease in transitioning from pediatric to adult care and focuses on reducing infant mortality in communities of color. Scott, also an instructor at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work, has been recognized for her advocacy, receiving honors such as the Shero of Health Award from the Ohio Commission on Minority Health in 2024. This award honors alumni like Scott, whose early career accomplishments and peer recognition showcase the value of an EMU education. Typically awarded to alumni within 10 years of graduation or under 35, it highlights Scott’s dedication to improving care for vulnerable communities.

• John Tuttle - Alumni Achievement Award: As president of Acrisure, Tuttle oversees client relationships and historic public listings, establishing himself as a leader in global financial markets. The Alumni Achievement Award recognizes alumni like Tuttle, who distinguish themselves professionally, demonstrate the impact of their EMU education, and maintain strong connections to the university. This award is typically given to alumni 10 to 25 years post-graduation.

• Judy Keenan - Distinguished Alumni Award: Keenan, a longtime advocate for labor rights, has advanced workplace equity and safety through her work with the New York District of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, supporting fair treatment for American workers. Reserved for alumni who graduated more than 25 years ago and achieved extraordinary distinction, the Distinguished Alumni Award honors Keenan’s career in advocacy and public service.

• Patrick Barry Jr. - Dr. John W. Porter Distinguished Service Award: Barry, a retired educator with over 50 years of experience, was an instructor in EMU's Communication, Media, and Theatre Arts Department and previously taught at several high schools and colleges. He has served as a mentor and volunteer, including roles with the EMU Alumni Association Board and the Heritage Society. Barry received the Dr. John W. Porter Distinguished Service Award, which honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions to EMU or the EMU Alumni Association, regardless of alumni status. His enduring dedication exemplifies this spirit​.

Each honoree received a crystal award and a golden eagle feather pin, symbolizing EMU’s tradition of excellence and alumni pride. The annual Alumni Awards ceremony reflects EMU’s commitment to honoring alumni who embody the university’s values and inspire future generations.

To view photos from the event and learn more about the honorees, visit tiny.emich.edu/a7.

About Eastern Michigan University

Founded in 1849, EMU is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves nearly 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist, doctoral and certificate degrees in the arts, sciences and professions. In all, more than 300 majors, minors and concentrations are delivered through the University's Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; and its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education. Visit the University’s rankings and points of pride websites to learn more. For more information about Eastern Michigan University, visit the University's website. To stay up to date on University news, activities and announcements, visit EMU Today.