The second Annual Leadership Awards Banquet for Northern Illinois University Programming and Activities was held Sunday in the Holmes Student Center Regency Room.

Outstanding Faculty Adviser Awards were given to Terrence Bishop, associate professor of Management; William Kreda, Systems Programming and Administration Information Services and Monique Zeno, coordinator for Job Location and Development.

Bishop, recognized for his work with the American Society for Personnel Administrators, said he helps students to prepare for the transition from college to the working world through various programs.

These programs are designed to assist business students with their future occupations and include guest lectures by speakers from various corporations. The programs also attempt to facilitate internships with such corporations as the Rockford Area Personnel Association.

Bishop said he enjoys working with students, and encourages them to get involved with activities that are happening on campus.

Monique Zeno, acknowledged for being instrumental in helping the Black Theater Workshop, also is NIU’s Job Location and Development coordinator. Her duties as department coordinator include helping students find jobs that are related to their major area of study. Zeno said winning the award indicated students cared about her efforts, adding that the recognition reinforced pride in her work.

The Black Theater Workshop recently has competed in the National Association of Dramatic Speech Arts in Florida, where members won two awards. Anthony Carter was recognized in the category of original poetry, and Maahra Hill won an award for her role in a play.

Kreda was unavailable for comment.

The banquet helps recognize students and faculty members who act as positive leaders and work toward making NIU a better place, Director of UP&A Michelle Emmett, said.

The UP&A also uses the banquet to show their appreciation to faculty and students for their contributions to NIU, she said.

UP&A Associate Director Flecia Thomas said the award ceremony enhances the quality of student life.

Parents also learn about the activities their sons and daughters are involved with at school, UP&A Activities Adviser Renee Baldwin, said.

NIU students who seek further information on the banquet and the organization can contact the UP&A at the Holmes Student Center on the sixth floor.