University of New Mexico student Hugh Greenwood was presented with the Lobo Outstanding Ambassador Award at a recent Recognition Reception.
The inaugural award is given to graduating seniors that have demonstrated a strong commitment to UNM and have made significant contributions to campus and the greater community. Recipients must have a 3.0 cumulative grade point average or higher.
“Greenwood demonstrated exceptional academic, athletic and leadership skills as a student-athlete on the men’s basketball team,” Dean of Students Tomás Aguirre said. “He has earned several academic awards including UNM Scholar-Athlete and All-Academic team, Mountain West Academic All-Conference and the National Association of Basketball Coaches’ National Honors Court. His leadership skills and devotion to making a difference are unparalleled.”
In the fall of 2014, Greenwood established a fund at the UNM foundation called the “Hugh Greenwood Pink Pack,” to support breast cancer research and breast cancer patient care. He established the fund in honor of his mother and her battle with breast cancer. Greenwood has raised $55,000 through the Pink Pack. All donations support research, patient care and public outreach at the UNM Cancer Center. In addition to fundraising, Greenwood volunteers his time at the UNM Cancer Center to meet with patients and staff to learn about their needs.
Greenwood, a native of Australia, was unable to attend the Recognition Reception. He recently signed a contract with Mummu Athlete Management, a service agency that works with professional athletes from Australia to fulfill their professional aspirations, and was away training in Las Vegas, Nev. His girlfriend, Kjiersten Straub accepted the award on his behalf.
“This award means a ton to Hugh and his family,” Aguirre said.