Leigh Ryan wins the IWCA Muriel Harris Outstanding Service Award

The International Writing Centers Association awards our Writing Center director, Leigh Ryan, the Muriel Harris Outstanding Service Award.

It’s been another great month for the University Writing Center’s director, Leigh Ryan!  On November 6, 2010, she won the International Writing Centers Association Muriel Harris Outstanding Service Award.  In an introductory speech given by former awardee, Al DeCiccio, winners of this award were described as “leaders.”  These leaders “listen…are empathetic…heal…are aware…persuade…conceptualize…are stewards…are committed to the growth of others, and are community builders.”  Of course the committee was impressed with Leigh’s capacity to work closely and presently with students and teachers in the field of literacy-community building, locally, regionally, and internationally.  But they were also struck by her humble way of making a name for herself.  The IWCA quotes Leigh saying, “I don’t think I’m anything special in the writing center world; I just have lots of experience. When I look at my record, I’ve done a lot, but I’ve always just done it quietly. It mattered to me.” 

This year has certainly proven that the “writing center world” thinks Leigh Ryan is something quite special.  And of course that is an honor of which to be proud.  But, for Leigh, it is obvious that pride has very little to do with it—her love of the work is at the very heart of her achievements.  A mere six weeks ago, the department celebrated Leigh’s receipt of the Presidents’ Distinguished Service Award, and in an article written for that occasion, Leigh reiterated her joy at being honored for “doing what [she] love[s].”  Thank you and congratulations (again!) to Leigh Ryan!