TWU announces Redbud Award winners

Apr. 15, 2020 — DENTON — Each year the Center for Student Development hosts the Redbud Awards to recognize student leaders, student organizations and advisors for outstanding leadership and service to the TWU community.

Usually, the winners are revealed during an on-campus ceremony with speeches, food and applause, but due to the coronavirus, the 2020 winners, selected from 99 total nominations, were announced virtually on Wednesday, April 15.

Although this year’s celebration is different, it’s not the first time the awards program has changed.

During the 1930s, more than two thousand trees were planted throughout the Denton campus and the surrounding neighborhoods. Out of this beautification movement the university started the Redbud Festival in 1939, which culminated with the crowning of the “Redbud Queen” at the ball.

Interest in the pageantry of the Redbud Festival began waning in the mid-1960s, and the program was scaled back, but it was not until the 1990s that the program was reevaluated and the format changed.

While today’s Redbud Awards recognize individuals for their strength of character, leadership and achievements instead of recognizing individuals for their poise and appearance, continuing to acknowledge student achievement during this season of renewal connects students to each other and to the university’s past. 

When asked about the feedback from students regarding the temporary change, Taylor Sandoval, assistant director of leadership and Greek life, said that nominated students seemed excited and were looking forward to seeing the video.

“One of the nominees said her family in Mexico is looking forward to seeing the video as well,” said Sandoval.

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Page last updated 4:57 PM, April 16, 2020