PROVO -- BYU athletic department financial secretary Patricia Conroy was the recipient of a Brigham Award for her concern for others above herself and excellence in Christ-like living and service. She received the award at the Unforum Tuesday April 12, the last forum of the winter semester.
The Brigham Award gives the student body and faculty of BYU an opportunity to recognize and honor people who embody Christ-like living and service in their day-to-day lives through an open nomination system.
Conroy has been the secretary of the athletic department for 24 years and has always maintained a positive perspective and patient demeanor. Despite recently being diagnosed with Lou Gehrigs disease, she has chosen to remain at BYU until she is physically unable to perform her duties. Conroy's example, cheerful attitude and willingness to help, make her a great asset to the athletes she serves.
Athletic department financial secretary Beverly Cozzens, who works with Conroy on a daily basis, said she is a pleasure to work with and is someone that truly cares about her job.
"She's been so dedicated to the department, in particular to the athletes, to do whatever she can to help," Cozzens said. "Pat is always willing to go the extra mile and do her part, despite her illness."
BYU athletic director Tom Holmoe said Conroy is an important member of the staff and well liked by everyone.
"Pat has been a terrific member of our staff for over 24 years," Holmoe said. "Her warmth, knowledge, work ethic and friendship make her the special person I, and those she works with, know her to be.'
This year, 137 people were nominated for the Brigham Awards and five were chosen as recipients. The award was not the first Conroy has received. In 2004 she won the Presidential Appreciation Award.