BUNKER RECEIVES UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA'S HIGHEST HONOR CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va., Oct. 27 - -Linda K. Bunker, a noted sports psychologist and faculty member at the University of Virginia since 1973, received U.Va.'s highest honor, the Thomas Jefferson Award, at Fall Convocation ceremonies today. An associate dean for academic and student affairs and a professor of physical education in the Curry School of Education, Bunker was honored for her accomplishments and contributions as a scholar and teacher in the fields of motor learning and sports psychology. Recognized for her ability to motivate and improve athletes' performance, Bunker has worked with several leading professional golfers and tennis players. In recognition of her expertise, Bunker has received numerous honors in recent years, including the 1995 R. Tait Mackenzie Award from the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. In 1994 she was elected to the American Academy of Kinesiology and Physical Education, and she was named the Delphine Hanna Lecturer, an annual award given to an outstanding interdisciplinary scholar in physical education. U.Va. bestowed on Bunker the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award in May; in addition, she received the Raven Award for outstanding faculty member in 1995 and was named outstanding professor in the Curry School of Education in 1981. In reading the award citation today, U.Va. President John T. Casteen III said, "Professional awards tell only part of the story. Much of what makes Linda essential to the University community receives little notice on a rsum, but best exemplifies the principles and ideals of the University's founder. " Casteen cited Bunker's tireless devotion to students, her compassion and her commitment. "What makes her accomplishments even more noteworthy is her display of personal courage, persistence and strength while facing serious illness. In her amazing capacity to focus on her job and on the needs of others, she is a role model for all of us. She teaches us what is important," he said. Bunker is author or co-author of more than 20 books and monographs and 50 articles or chapters pertaining to sports psychology, movement education and athletics. She also has served as an editorial reviewer for numerous national publications including the "Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology." Recognized for her ability as a public speaker, she has given more than 200 professional presentations and visiting lectures nationwide. She has provided professional service and leadership to numerous organizations including the Association for the Advancement of Applied Sport Psychology and the National Association of Physical Education. In recognition of her efforts to promote women's interests in sports, Bunker has received several honors, including awards from the Women's Sports Foundation and the National Association of Girls and Women in Sports. She also received the Outstanding Alumnae Award from the University of Illinois, where she earned a B.S., M.S. and Ph.D. in physical education, motor learning and sport psychology. Given annually since 1955, the Thomas Jefferson Award honors an individual who exemplifies in character, work and influence the principles and ideals of the University's founder. ### October 27, 1995