Professor honored for children’s advocacy volunteer efforts
In recognition of her significant contributions as a community volunteer and scholar, Melissa Clearfield, associate professor of psychology, has been named the recipient of the 2010 Pete and Hedda Reid Service to Walla Walla Award. She accepted the award at the Walla Walla Valley Chamber of Commerce Banquet in November.
During her nine years in Walla Walla, Clearfield has been passionately involved in local children’s issues, bringing the knowledge and skills that she gained through her training as a developmental psychologist to the aid of organizations and individuals in need. The organizations for which she has volunteered include HomeTeam, Children’s Home Society and Children’s Forum.
"I am truly honored to be a part of the long list of faculty who get involved in our community," said Clearfield upon receiving the award. "One of Walla Walla’s strengths is the sheer number of organizations and people who work hard to improve the lives of children and families here in the valley. It’s been a privilege to meet and work with everyone who shares that goal."
Traditionally, the award is presented in memory of a Whitman staff or faculty member, and this year it was given in memory of Mary Hanna, Miles C. Moore professor of politics emerita and the first woman ever elected to the position of chair of the Whitman faculty.
Whitman’s Pete and Hedda Reid Service to Walla Walla Award honors 60-plus years of service to the college and community by Pete ’49 and Hedda Jorgenson Reid ’49.
— Ashley Coetzee