Father-daughter alum team receives Joe and Marie Rolle Spirit of NAU Award

FLAGSTAFF, AZ (09/28/2012)(readMedia)-- Marie Rolle personally chose to honor Larry Schnebly and Lisa Schnebly-Heidinger with the Joe and Marie Rolle Spirit of NAU award for their long-standing dedication to Northern Arizona University,

Larry and his daughter, Lisa, both graduated from NAU: he with an English degree in 1952, and she with a journalism degree in 1987.

Joe Rolle was a friend to Larry and a valued mentor to Lisa during her time as a student.

While still working toward his degree, Larry began his lengthy career in broadcast journalism. He retired from KGUN TV, Tucson's ABC affiliate, in 1994 after 34 years with that station.

Larry also worked as the assistant director of Alumni Relations, the editor of PINE and the director of Housing for NAU.

"My first head residents on the [Arizona State College] campus in Taylor Hall were Joe and Marie Rolle," Larry explained. "They've been involved so much in the lives of so many Lumberjacks that it is an incredible honor to receive such an award."

Lisa is a well-known journalist and author in Arizona. She has written for publications including Arizona Highways magazine, the Arizona Republic, Tucson Lifestyle, and more. She has also published a few books, including Arizona: 100 Years Grand.

"In everything I do, my experiences at NAU are there," Lisa said. "NAU is both a constant and wonderfully organically growing entity. NAU is in my life, my goals, my soul."

Joe and Marie Rolle played many roles in the growth of NAU. Joe, who died in February last year, was an administrator for Arizona State College/NAU for 36 years.

Their award is one of four that will be presented at NAU's homecoming football game Oct. 20. For information about the award, visit nau.edu/alumni/awards.