Each year the University of Kentucky pauses to recognize the achievements of its students at the annual University Honors and Recognition Awards Program. Hosted in the Frank H. Harris Grand Ballroom in the Student Center, students were recognized with university-wide awards at a ceremony Monday, April 14.

The ceremony boasted several of the university's brightest and hardest working students. Dean of Students Victor Hazard shared his praise and thanks to these outstanding young adults and offered them his advice for their futures moving forward.

The evening culminated with the awarding of the Otis A. Singletary Outstanding Senior Award. Given to a senior man and woman, this award, named after the former UK president, was established in 1978 and was the first award recognizing overall student leadership at UK. Students nominated for this award have shown outstanding leadership while attending the University of Kentucky, made significant contributions to academics and are dedicated to service through campus and community involvement.

The 2014 Outstanding Senior Male Award was given to Alex Wade, a Lexington native majoring in biosystems and agricultural engineering and who will be attending UK College of Medicine in the fall. Wade served as the 2013-14 DanceBlue family relations chair after serving on the Family Relations Committee for two years. Wade was also president of his fraternity, Sigma Chi, was president of Wrap Up America - UK Chapter, and was named the 2013 Homecoming king.

For information about other award winners, click here.