The award, presented by the Loyalty Permanent Endowment Fund of the WVU
Alumni Association, is named for Louis D. Meisel, a member of the 1928
football team, and recognizes the graduating member of the football team
who has maintained the highest GPA.
Gonzales, a native of Tampa, Fla., earned his bachelor’s degree in
physical education in 2007 and will receive a master’s degree in
special education during the 140th Commencement ceremonies May 15-17.
“Tito Gonzales has been a wonderful role model both on and off the
field,” said Stephen L. Douglas, president and chief executive officer
of the WVU Alumni Association. “He has excelled academically, competed
in football and still maintained a strong commitment to his community.
He embodies the definition of a true Mountaineer, and we are pleased to
be able to recognize his accomplishments with the Louis Meisel
Award.”
Gonzales, a two-year starter on the team, maintained a 3.75 GPA and has
received numerous academic and athletic honors, including the Athletic
Director’s Academic Honor Roll and Big East Academic All-Star. He was
named one of the team’s permanent captains and was recognized by the
Mountaineer coaching staff with the Ideal Mountain Man award.
In recognition of his service to the community, Gonzales also was named
to the American Football Coaches Association Good Works team.
Gonzales will be presented with the award during the 2009 Alumni
Luncheon and Vandalia ceremony May 16 at the new Erickson Alumni Center.
He will receive a check for $500 and a plaque recognizing his
accomplishments.