Bastyr University recently held its annual Mission and Founders’ Awards Gala on campus, honoring four individuals with the school’s 2010 Founders’ Awards.

The Founders’ Awards are named after those who helped Bastyr become a reality. The award recipients distinguished themselves through outstanding professional achievement and service to the university:

• The Les Griffith Student Award: Jennifer Nelson

• The Joseph E. Pizzorno Jr. Alumnus(a) Award: Kasra Pournadeali

• William A. Mitchell Jr. Service Merit Award: Leanna Standish

• Sheila Quinn Service to Society Award: Katherine Rose Hart

Additionally, Maxine Hayes, state health officer, Washington State Department of Health, was named the recipient of Bastyr’s Mission Award, given to those who show leadership in improving the health and well-being of the human community.

“Bastyr University is proud to honor this year’s Mission and Founders’ Awards winners,” University President Daniel K. Church said. “It is a great way to recognize those who blazed a trail, as well as those who are currently making a positive difference in the field of natural medicine, all at once.”

The gala also served as a fund-raiser for the university. Held Oct. 9, the event raised $115,000 for scholarships and priority needs for the university. That amount was nearly double the amount raised last year.