Belin-Blank Center at the University of Iowa Honors Students

Alexandra "Ally" Poremba of Iowa City, Iowa, daughter of Mr. and Dr. Mark and Amy Poremba, granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Stan and Cathy Poremba of Arlington Heights, Illinois, and 5th grade student at Willowwind School in Iowa City, Iowa was among the 470 students from Iowa and throughout the nation who were recently invited to be honored at The University of Iowa Belin-Blank Center's Recognition Ceremony.

The ceremony was held Sunday, October 13, 2013, at the Iowa Memorial Union on the University of Iowa campus. Additionally, recognized students were given the opportunity to honor a teacher they credited for having a profound influence on their lives. Ally Poremba selected Mrs. Debbie Wilson, Willowwind School teacher for this honor. Students were recognized by the Center for exceptional performance in the Belin-Blank Center student talent search and for being meritorious awardees at the 2013 Invent Iowa State Invention Convention. Ally won top honors for her invention, Ocean Breathe, a device for relief of congestion. Addressing the students, teachers and guests was Dr. Jon Whitmore, Belin-Blank Advisory Board member, The University of Iowa President Sally Mason, and a video from Iowa Senator Harkin. Dr. Nicholas Colangelo, delivered the keynote address to the teachers and Ms. Bryne Berry, delivered the keynote address to the students. Presenting the award to Ally was the University of Iowa President Sally Mason.