FSU’s VP for Student Affairs, CLC Receive Inaugural Positive People Awards

May 1, 2024 8:00 AM

travis and onealDr. Artie Lee Travis, Vice President for Student Affairs at Frostburg State University, and Frostburg’s Children’s Literature Centre (CLC) are among the list of recipients for Allegany County’s inaugural Positive People award. Both were recognized in the Education Support category.

Travis, who was nominated by Adam Strott, Allegany County Economic Development Specialist, was selected for his unwavering dedication to the community and the positive impact he has made on the lives of many students. “Artie is a champion not only of diversity in Allegany County, but also of Allegany County itself,” said Strott. “While Artie’s achievements in guiding student-led initiatives on campus are many, what makes him a positive person is his continued dedication to them as people.”

Members of the Allegany County Board of Commissioners echoed those sentiments. “Dr. Travis inspires hope and fosters a spirit of togetherness, and his commitment to making Allegany County a better place truly embodies the essence of what this award stands for.”

“For 44 years I have been serving students on university campuses and have attempted to be a role model in my behavior that represents excellence, accountability, civility and service,” said Travis. “My Bobcats, each and every one of them, is important to me and they keep me positive. This award means so much to me.” He continued, “I would also like to thank my daughters, Nirvana, Amber and Maritza for sustaining my positivity and give a special honor to my compass in life, Francine, my wife of 32 years before she transitioned.”

Director of the CLC, Dr. Sarah O’Neal, accepted the award on behalf of the Centre. “It was so wonderful that the CLC at FSU and the work we do was recognized for the positivity we share with others.” She continued, “Our mission to continue to build the passion for lifelong reading is always at the forefront of our events. Having the children’s events we host be mentioned as a part of the award cemented that children’s outreach is a true hallmark of the CLC.”

O’Neal was honored to be surrounded by so many positive people that all work for the betterment of the community in Allegany County. “I am truly fortunate as the current CLC director to be able to move the 40+ year legacy that Dr. William Bingman, Dr. Thomas Palardy and Dr. Barbara Ornstein have laid the groundwork for over many decades.”  

Travis and O’Neal joined the other 2024 Positive People award recipients at a luncheon held on April 30 where they were recognized and celebrated for their achievements in education.