Three College of Arts and Sciences students received the top honors at Illinois State’s annual Reggies awards. Anderson Devonish, Kiley Walsh, and J.D. Lafayette were recognized as the 2018 Male Athlete of the Year and as Scholar-Athletes of the Year, respectively.
Devonish, an English major, is this year’s Milt Weisbecker Male Athlete of the Year. Devonish took part in Illinois State’s 2018 Missouri Valley Conference Men’s Indoor Track and Field championship team and is a 2018 NCAA Outdoor Track and Field national qualifier. Professor of English Ricardo Cruz spoke highly of Devonish’s achievements inside and outside of the classroom.
“He’s quick on his feet, very compelling to listen to, and graceful in his communication,” said Cruz. “He runs toward knowledge at the speed of light, and, most importantly, he is certainly deserving of recognition at any event, such as the Reggies, hoping to dynamically celebrate the development of a star.”
Walsh, a Spanish teacher education major and French minor, is this year’s Linda Herman Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year. Since her freshman year, Walsh has been a member of the Illinois State women’s golf team. She also received a Robert G. Bone Scholarship for 2017–2018. For Walsh, recognition at the Reggies was an “incredibly special” way to end her undergraduate career.
“I am so grateful for my wonderful mentors, leader, coaches and friends for guiding me to this award,” Walsh said. “This achievement is a direct reflection of all the amazing support I have received during my time as a Redbird.”
Lafayette, a computer science and mathematics major, is this year’s Doug Collins Male Scholar-Athlete of the Year. Lafayette graduated from University High School and is a part of Illinois State’s track and field and cross country teams.
