COLUMBUS, Ohio – The nomination period is now open for Ohio State’s African American Alumni Awards.

 Awards are given in four categories and will be presented at Ohio State’s All Decade African American Alumni Reunion, scheduled for April 30-May 2, 2010. Here are the award categories:

 ·         Frank W. Hale Honorary Leadership Award for devotion to the African American community at Ohio State.

·         Jesse Owens Influential Athlete Award for consummate athleticism and humanitarianism.

·         Samella Lewis Professional Achievement Award for career accomplishments and community service.

·         Larry Williamson Distinguished Service Award for influencing positive change in services to minority students.

The nomination period closes on Jan. 31, 2010. For more information on nominating an alumnus, visit www.ohiostatealumni.org and search "African American Alumni Awards."

The 2010 All Decade African American Reunion is a collaborative effort between Ohio State’s African American Alumni Society and the Alumni Association. Nearly 300 alumni attended the inaugural event in 2008.

The Alumni Association is a dues-supported organization of graduates, former students, and friends of the university with more than 120,000 members. For more than 125 years, the Alumni Association has been dedicated to connecting alumni, friends and students to enhance and strengthen the traditions and reputation of The Ohio State University.

Contact: Jay Hansen, (614) 292-9311, hansen@ohiostatealumni.org