President Paula M. Rooney and Dean College welcomed Master Sergeant Lee Power back to campus on Saturday, September 22, 2012 to present the “Outstanding Young Alumnus Award,” in recognition of Sergeant Power’s achievements within the United States Army.

Lee Power, 39, is a Graduate of the 1992 class of Dean College (formerly Dean Junior College) and has spent the last nineteen years of his life serving in the Armed forces, most recently being deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, as well as serving our nations interests in the Republic of Korea. 

“I am honored and humbled to be selected as an Outstanding Young Alumnus,” said Lee Power.  “Classmates of mine do huge things every day, and to be chosen for this award is simply humbling.”

Mr. Power was chosen to receive the prestigious institutional award due to his impressive extensive resume of service which includes receiving awards such as; the Bronze Star Medal (2^nd award), Meritorious Service Medal; Army Commendation Medal (5^th award), Army Achievement Medal (3^rd award), Good Conduct Medal (6^th award), Iraqi Campaign Medal, Afghan Campaign Medal, Meritorious Unit Citation, Army Superior Unit Award, Korean Defense Service Medal, the NATO Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Combat Action Badge and is a recipient of the Honorable Order of Saint Barbara.

When questioned about his educational background at Dean and how it prepared him for his future, Lee Power spoke at length about how it was the first time he had been out on his own and Dean helped him learn how to deal with that.

“Dean was really the first time I had ever been held accountable for my actions,” said Power.  “Having been on the football and lacrosse team, Dean was the first place where I really learned to live, work and play with a team.” 

Power continued, “Dean helped build my confidence level which really helped prepare me for my future.  Dean laid the foundation for my social and professional network.”   

The Class of 1992 Alumni Reception was held in Boomers Restaurant inside the campus center at Dean College where President Paula M. Rooney presented Sergeant Power with the award.  Sergeant Power was joined by former teammates of the Dean College football team as well as class of ‘92 classmates.