Kerri Oliver, a Class of 2025 Actuarial Sciences major with a minor in Economics, was announced as this year’s T. Muncy Keith Spirit Award recipient during halftime of the Parents and Family Weekend football game on September 28, 2024.

The University of Delaware Alumni Association presents the T. Muncy Keith Spirit Award, a $1,000 scholarship, annually to a UD Student Alumni Ambassador (UDSAA) who contributes the most time and effort to the organization’s programs, events and initiatives. UDSAAs are undergraduate students selected for their outstanding achievements and leadership on campus as they foster school spirit, strengthen connections among alumni and students and help educate peers about the importance of philanthropy. 

Oliver joined the UDSAA in her freshman year, served as vice president of philanthropy her junior year and is now serving as president in her senior year. 

During her time as a UDSAA, Oliver collaborated with Development and Alumni Relations on projects ranging from cataloging the Delaware Diamond Society donor bricks to drafting donor thank you notes. She also served on the Women and Philanthropy Steering Committee last year, reviewing published research and suggesting a plan to increase women’s involvement in philanthropy at UD. 

These projects taught her the importance of showing others that they are valued, a lesson she has embraced as a leader. “One of my goals stepping into this role was to ensure I remain approachable to all UDSAAs, whether they need help, have questions or simply want to talk. Joining a new organization can be intimidating, so I want to make sure everyone feels welcome during their time as a UDSAA,” Oliver said. 

Oliver reflected on her time as a UDSAA, “I feel I have dedicated myself fully to the organization and I am proud to be approaching 200 volunteer hours. When I graduate, I know I will feel fulfilled by everything I have accomplished as a UDSAA.”

UDSAA Advisor Katie Moyer attested to Oliver’s dedication and enthusiasm as a leader. 

“Kerri is an invaluable asset to the UDSAA, bringing her extensive volunteer experience and dedication to promoting philanthropy across campus,” Moyer said. “Her efforts to engage both her peers and Registered Student Organizations in this mission are truly commendable. It has been a genuine pleasure to advise Kerri and witness her remarkable Blue Hen pride in action.” 

To learn more about the UD Alumni Association awards, visit https://www.udel.edu/alumni-friends/resources/scholarships-awards.