Barnard Eric Barnard of Flora received the prestigious G.A. Ross Award at the Purdue University Honors Convocation.

It is given to the outstanding graduating man from the whole university. The recipient best exemplifies the criteria of leadership, service, and character.

The $500 award is made possible through a gift left to the university by G.A. Ross, a 1916 alumnus. A bronzeplated medal and a certificate also come with the award.

Barnard is the son of Mike and Lori Barnard of Flora. He is a 2004 graduate of Carroll Junior-Senior High School and was the class valedictorian, class vice president, member of National Honor Society and served on the Student Council.

His major at Purdue is agricultural finance, with a minor in management. He is the outgoing president and past treasurer of Purdue Student Government.

Barnard's activities included executive officer for the Purdue Greek Intervarsity Youth Fellowship, and a member of Mortar Board and FarmHouse Fraternity, where he was an office holder.

He was active in FFA in high school and went on to become an FFA state officer. At Purdue, he served as an Agriculture Ambassador, representing students in the College of Agriculture. He also was a teaching assistant for a course in agriculture.

A Dean's List student, Barnard was active in philanthropic and service projects such as Boiler Blast and Martin Luther King Service Day.

He has been involved in a number of leadership programs and organizations including President's Leadership Class, Sophomore Leadership Conference, Student Leaders Retreat, and Skull & Crescent Greek Honorary.

Barnard studied in Italy in the spring of 2006 and in Ireland in the spring of 2007.

He will graduate May 16 and plans to gain some experience in the workplace before pursuing a master's degree.