RETIRED AU PROFESSOR RECEIVED PAMELA WELLS SHEFFIELD AWARD
The 2006 Pamela Wells Sheffield Award for service and commitment to Auburn University was presented to retired AU assistant professor, Sandra Bridges Newkirk, of Opelika, at the AU vs. Arkansas State football game on Nov. 4.
Newkirk taught in the College of Education at AU for 40 years before retiring in May. A long-time assistant professor of health and human performance, she helped create AU’s women’s athletic program and served as the first women’s volleyball coach.
Newkirk has volunteered as a rape counselor in Auburn and Opelika since 1980 and has served as director for the Rape Counselors of East Alabama, a United Way agency, for 20 years. Newkirk is also involved in mediating court cases in Lee County.
“Sandra Newkirk reflects the wonderful qualities that made Pam Sheffield the epitome of an Auburn woman,” said Debbie Shaw, AU interim vice president for alumni affairs. “Sandra dedicated four decades of her life to making AU students the best they could be, and continues to devote time to helping women in crisis. This is a well-deserved honor.”
The Pamela Wells Sheffield Award, sponsored by the AU president’s office and athletics department and coordinated by the Office of Alumni Affairs, recognizes women who show extraordinary service and commitment to the university and the Auburn family.
