Appomattox, VA  — Cindy Scheu, Library Director of the J. Robert Jamerson Memorial Library has been named Student of the Year by the Library and Information Science (LIS) program at The Catholic University of America — one of the nation’s most prestigious programs in the field.

The award recognizes Scheu’s outstanding academic performance, professional contributions, and commitment to mentoring the next generation of library professionals. During her time in the program, she delivered three independent presentations and has a scholarly publication currently in progress, demonstrating a level of engagement that goes well beyond the classroom.

Faculty cited not only her academic excellence but her active investment in the LIS profession and in the colleagues around her. Scheu has already begun giving back to the broader library community, offering mentorship and guidance to emerging professionals entering the field.

In accepting the award, Scheu reflected on the impact the program has had on her career and her vision for the future of librarianship:

“I am truly honored to receive the Student of the Year award from the Catholic University Library and Information Science program. This recognition means a great deal to me, and I am deeply grateful to the faculty, staff, and my fellow students who made this journey so meaningful.

The LIS program at Catholic University has been a transformative experience. Through thoughtful coursework and rich discussions, I had the privilege of exploring the many dimensions of the library profession — from its foundational principles to its evolving role in an ever-changing information landscape.

What has inspired me most, however, has been the people. The professors who challenged and mentored me, and the classmates who brought diverse perspectives and shared a genuine passion for this field — you have given me both hope for the future of librarianship and a deeper commitment to growing as a professional. The ideas and insights I have gained here will continue to shape the way I serve my current library and any institution I am fortunate enough to be part of in the years ahead.

Thank you again for this incredible honor. I will carry it with me as both a reminder of how far I have come and an inspiration for all that is still to come.”