PNCA staffer who rallied after tragedies receives award

Michael Hall oversaw memorials
for two PNCA students last fall.
(Photo © J. Maus)

Michael Hall, Dean of Student Services at the Pacific Northwest College of Art, has received a community award from the NW Examiner for his role in creating awareness and promoting bike safety in the wake of two tragic deaths last year.

The death of 19 year-old PNCA art student Tracey Sparling, followed by the death of PNCA alum Brett Jarolimek in a span of less than two weeks last October sent shockwaves through the close-knit school.

According to the NW Examiner, Hall reacted by going above and beyond his duties to not only support the student community, but to help them cope and become more aware of bike safety.

Here’s a photo of Hall, along with a description of why he won that runs in the current edition of the paper:

I remember speaking with Mr. Hall on several occasions back in October of 2007. I was impressed by his warm demeanor and energy for bike advocacy. He didn’t just deal with the tragedies, he went on the offensive and tried to do everything he could to improve the safety of biking around their campus. He has definitely earned this award.