Rose honored for Rhodes Scholarship

Many students have been recognized for academic achievement, community involvement and student leadership. For most, recognition means a certificate, an award or a pat on the back.

But for LSA senior Fiona Rose, former Michigan Student Assembly president, it meant a day in Lansing in front of the State Legislature. And it means an education at Oxford University.

Yesterday, the Michigan Senate honored Rose, one of 32 of the 1998 Rhodes Scholars, for her overall achievement during her years at the University.

At the state Capitol, Rose was awarded a State resolution - an official document of congratulations from the Michigan Senate.

"For the last 20-some years, we have recognized every Michigan Rhodes Scholar," said Sen. Jackie Vaughn (D-Detroit).

Vaughn said Rose, like past Rhodes Scholars from state universities, has helped distinguish the state of Michigan. The least the Senate can do is recognize her accomplishments, he said.

"I was given the opportunity to address the Senate floor," Rose said. "That was an exciting opportunity."

In her address, Rose showed her appreciation for being honored. Although the Senate called Rose an honor to the state, Rose said she wasn't the only one that deserved recognition.

"I want to point out that really this state has brought this honor to me," Rose said. "Really, this is a tribute to public schools more than anything else."

Sen. John Cherry (D-Clio), co-signer of the resolution, is a University alumnus.

"It is always a moment of pride to have a student from the University of Michigan get such an honor," Cherry said. "It is a special moment, a special recognition."

Not only has Rose been awarded for her academic success, but the state Senate also acknowledged her community service efforts.

Rose has been involved in the University's Child Care Task Force, Alternative Spring Break program, the Year of Humanities and the Arts and Services for Students with Disabilities.

Rose was also a recipient of the Harry S. Truman Scholarship, a congressional scholarship. The Truman award will take her to Washington D.C. for the summer, where she will be an intern to First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton.

After the White House internship, Rose, as a Rhodes Scholar, will attend Oxford University in the fall.

"I'm very proud that I will represent not only the United States, but I will also represent the University of Michigan," Rose said.

Rose plans to earn a Masters degree in classical archeology at Oxford. Rose said she hasn't made any further plans for her future at this time.

04-17-98