April 22, 2011

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Junior Ashleigh Gustafson was awarded the 20th annual Darrell A. VanMeter Community Service Award it was announced at the Center for Student Involvement Honors and Recognition Awards banquet.

This marks the 20th year the University of Kentucky recognized the outstanding volunteer service achievements of Darrell A. VanMeter, through the presentation of an undergraduate award named in his honor. VanMeter was a sophomore at the time of his death in 1991. He was recognized by the University and his home community for his positive contributions to the community and dedication to serving others.

Gustafson is a mainstay in the community working more than 300 hours of service during her time at Kentucky. The Louisville native, has offered her time to various projects such as: Big Blue U, UK Fusion, SEC Food Drive, Race for the Cure, Salvation Army Bell Ringing, Ronald McDonald House, Hope Lodge, Special Olympics, Southeast Christian Church, YMCA, Southland Church, Circle of Love, SMA Walk, Kentucky Horse Park stable cleaner, Habitat for Humanity, Lighthouse Ministries and God’s Pantry.

The junior utility player is a special education major with an impressive 3.92 grade point average. Gustafson is specializing in working with children with moderate to severe disabilities. She is a four-time Athletic Director’s honor roll member, a two-time All-SEC Academic team performer and she serves as the SAAC representative for softball.

Gustafson’s honor marks the second consecutive year a UK softball player earned the honor. Senior Samantha DeMartine captured the award in 2010.

Kentucky returns to the field with a three-game series at South Carolina beginning Friday at 7 p.m. ET.

Complete coverage of the UK softball team can be found at UKathletics.com all season long.