MANCHESTER, N.H. – Saint Anselm College Director of Athletics Daron Montgomery announced the creation of the "Hawks Soar Higher" Award on Wednesday. Peter Hagerty and Michelle Lavoie were selected as the inaugural recipients of the new award. Both were presented with their recognition plaque earlier today.

The special award was created to allow the Department of Athletics to recognize individuals that are instrumental to the College's efforts to offer a first class, transformational student-athlete experience. The award will be issued each month during the academic year to two individuals employed by the institution outside of athletics.

Recipients will be colleagues, faculty, staff or administrators that advocate for Saint Anselm student-athletes and who go above and beyond in their contributions each day on the Hilltop.

Hagerty is a member of the College's housekeeping and physical plant team and serves as one of the primary custodians for Stoutenburgh Gymnasium. Peter has become a staff and coach favorite over the years and is a staunch advocate of the student-athletes whose locker rooms are located in the facility. He goes above and beyond on a daily basis.

Lavoie works for Dining Services as an administrative assistant and coordinates all logistical aspects of student-athlete dining during fall pre-season and over holiday/winter breaks. Michelle has built a strong working relationship with Athletics during recent years and always goes the extra mile, even accommodating last minute schedule changes.

"I'm still speechless," said Lavoie. "I was so surprised and am honored to be selected. I always enjoy working with our teams and student-athletes...we have such a great group of students here at the College."