Psychology, Spanish Double-Major Earns BVU Senior of the Year Honor
Khamedriah Grimes lauded for work with a variety of campus organizations
Khamedriah Grimes didn’t dream she’d miss the Buena Vista University Student Recognition Dinner when it occurred during her senior year.
Grimes, after all, was nominated for several awards, including Senior of the Year, Psychology Senior of the Year, and something the BVU Admissions calls its “MVB,” as in Most Valuable Beaver.
She missed the banquet, though, for a great pair of reasons: a wedding in the family and her younger sister’s high school class ring ceremony, both in Kansas City, Mo., Grimes’ hometown.
“It’s funny because I didn’t go home much during college,” Grimes says. “I tried to stay active on campus and my commitments helped keep me here.”
Grimes made a difference through various roles with Esprit de Corps, the Black Student Union, the Psychology Club, BV Buddies, and through her work for Sodexo and as a Resident Advisor. As she finishes her senior year, she’s also helping to plan the University’s first multicultural visit day, slated for next fall. That work and the fact she’s a top tour guide helped her earn the “MVB” award from Admissions, an honor that complemented her Psychology Senior of the Year laurels and the overall BVU Senior of the Year. She also earned the Stief Award, named for Willard Stief, which goes to two students who’ve made positive contributions to life in the residence halls.
“I was surprised to be named Senior of the Year, because there are so many great seniors who were finalists,” says Grimes, who edged classmates Molly Barten, Christina Jackson, Eric Pacheco, and Max Powers for the honor, an honor the BVU Alumni Association has awarded since 1985. Grimes was chosen following an interview with members of the BVU Alumni Association Board of Directors and University Advancement.
“It was interesting to hear from alumni on how much of an impact BVU had on their lives,” Grimes says. “It’s neat they like being involved with an award like this for current students.”
Grimes, a double-major in psychology and Spanish, is headed to graduate school at Clemson University in the fall. She seeks to one day serve as a bilingual play therapist for children.
She owes her success to her support network, her family and friends, and those surrounding her at BVU, as well as her determination to positively impact others she comes to know through her work within a variety of organizations.
“I’ve had to learn things at BVU, and I’ve enjoyed the ride,” Grimes says. “I came here not knowing anyone and I got to grow as a person. I got to find out who I am currently, and who I want to be.”
Earning several awards, Senior of the Year among them, helps culminate a wonderful BVU trek.