Amanda Koch of Williston receives communication sciences and disorders award from Elms College

CHICOPEE, MA (05/18/2010)(readMedia)-- Amanda Koch of Williston, Vermont, received the Peter Stanton James Memorial Award at Elms College's annual Honors Convocation. The award recognizes a senior in the Division of Communication Sciences and Disorders who has excelled academically, has an interest in helping individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing reach their potential, and has demonstrated altruism and kindness throughout his/her tenure at Elms College. The award, established by Dr. Kathryn James in memory of her late husband, recognizes the importance of the coupling of a solid academic foundation with a humanistic approach to working with individuals with communication disorders.

Koch was a awarded her bachelor of arts degree in communication sciences and disorders at Elms Sunday, May 16. A four-year member of the cross-country team and captain during her senior year, Koch will begin a master's program at Gallaudet University in September.

Elms College is a co-educational, Catholic college offering a liberal arts curriculum that gives students multiple perspectives on life. Founded in 1928 by the Sisters of St. Joseph, Elms College has a tradition of educating reflective, principled, and creative learners, who are rooted in faith, educated in mind, compassionate in heart, responsive to civic and social obligations, and capable of adjusting to change without compromising principle.