WFPA honors Sisson and Allen

Shamim Sisson, associate dean of students, was recently named this year's Woman of Achievement, one of two annual awards given by the Women Faculty and Professional Association. Teresa Renee Allen, a nurse who works at the Cancer Center, will receive the Aspiring Woman Award, given to a U.Va. employee to support her decision to further her education. Both women will be honored at the spring luncheon and awards ceremony May 3.

Sisson is being recognized for her contributions to the University, where she has worked in the Dean of Students office for almost 12 years. She has developed or enhanced several programs, including those for Family Weekend and for women¹s leadership. In addition, she has been instrumental in working on the University¹s handling of resolutions to sexual assault cases.

Sisson also launched a peer-oriented Women's Leadership Development Program a few years ago to give female students an opportunity to explore their leadership potential. In addition, she serves on the Women¹s Center Council and the Athletic Advisory Committee.

Renee Allen overcame obstacles in her personal life and, at 35, earned an associate degree in nursing from New River Community College in 1995. She began working at the University Hospital about three years ago. She will graduate from the U.Va. School of Nursing in May with a bachelor¹s degree and intends to pursue a master's. Having discovered an interest in teaching, she will also begin teaching certified nursing assistants.

The luncheon will be held at noon in the Newcomb Hall Ballroom. Although the reservation deadline is April 28, call Lucy Russell at 243-2983 to see if places are still available. Lunch costs $15 for WFPA members and $18 for non-members.