Students cheered as an emcee announced BYU's position as the number one stone-cold sober school in the university's annual Unforum.
The Unforum is put on by BYUSA and, as the final forum of the semester, is a recap of the year's events. With an Academy Award theme, the program gives the university an opportunity to showcase talent and award excellence.
The Cougar Awards, oscar-esque depictions of Cosmo, were given to students and faculty for excellence in academics and service in several different categories.
The Last Minute Clutch Play Award rewarded students who had performed well under stressful situations. Nominees ranged from the women's soccer team and their triumph in the Mountain West Conference to a student's impressive 10-minute run from the dorms to the testing center at 8:50 p.m. to receive an A on her American Heritage test.
BYU was honored in Academic Achievement for ranking eighth in the number of graduates who go on to receive doctoral degrees and for ranking sixteenth in the number of students who participate in study abroad programs, according to Princeton Review's rankings.
Ransom Smith, a student from Arizona, known for sporting a long black trench coat and dancing on campus, won the Performing Arts Award for entertaining his peers with his creative dance steps.
However, the program took a more serious tone as BYUSA representatives honored church leaders.
"We recognize the many changes befalling students and the church this semester," said BYUSA President Summer Price, referencing the death of President James E. Faust and then President Gordon B. Hinckley.
Students watched a slide show of some of their favorite moments from President Hinckley's visits to BYU campus and images of President Thomas S. Monson.
Brigham Awards and Circle of Honor Awards were given to students and faculty who have served their peers in exemplary ways.
Cole Hooley, a student from Lindon, won an award in this category for his work in Uganda, where he helped AIDS victims write memory books and wills for their children.
