First-generation college student honored

Tue, November 3, 2009 |

A sophomore art major from Griffith has been selected as Valparaiso University's 2009 recipient of the Realizing the Dream Award, which honors an outstanding first-generation student.

Honored is Ashley Roll, the daughter of Michael and Denise Roll of Griffith, and an active member of Valpo student organizations involved in social justice ministry and supporting global understanding.

The $2,000 award is presented to a sophomore who is an outstanding first-generation student – a student who is the first generation in his or her family to attend college. The annual award is sponsored by the Independent Colleges of Indiana.

Roll said she values being the first generation in her family to attend college.

"I think it's important because it seems like so many more young people are going to college than in previous generations," Roll said. "I feel that, in order to be successful in life, I will need a college degree."

Roll has been an active member of Valpo's Campus Crusade for Christ, Social Action Leadership Team and International Conversation Group, and volunteers her time to Rebuilding Together and Gloria Dei Hispanic Mission.

"These activities are important to me because of the sense of community they give me and also how they affect the Valpo community as a whole," Roll said.

Roll identified Christine Chidichimo of Griffith High School, who she had as an instructor for math, as the teacher who most influenced her.

The pair will be honored at an Independent Colleges of Indiana (http://www.icindiana.org) banquet in Indianapolis on Nov 7.