Felix Alonso, winner of the Mount Award.

To win the John T. and Ruth Weimer Mount Award, nominees must exemplify the commitment to leadership, scholarship and service, and the dedication to students, which the award’s namesakes demonstrated throughout their lives.

Felix Alonso, director of student programs for the OSU Alumni Association, received the award on Feb. 28 at a ceremony hosted by the Sphinx and Mortar Board honor societies. Members of those societies nominate the faculty and staff members considered for the Mount Award.

Alonso was nominated by a student who noted his involvement in and dedication to student organizations, and his “unprecedented dedication” to working with students. “His unique balance of qualities — the ability to completely commit himself to an organization, to truly value the relationships he makes with students, and to tirelessly work to reach the goals of the group — makes him extremely deserving of the Mount Award,” the nomination said.

When contacted, Alonso said that “receiving this award is a great honor and a humbling experience. I was shocked the day of the event to receive the award, especially because it is chosen by students.”

Alonso’s nomination also highlighted his willingness to go “beyond the call of duty” and to find “ways to further enhance the students’ experience and the leadership potential of every student he comes into contact with.” In the end, the nomination stated: “Felix has formed bonds beyond that of the mentor-mentee relationship with every student he has touched.”