Kalra Named 2008 Pal Award Winner



The 2008 "Pal -- Make A Difference Award" winner, Kevin Kalra was honored at the spring Texas Union Advisory Council luncheon on April 4.

Kalra, a senior at The University of Texas at Austin, won the award for "Act Local-Think Global", a program conceived by him to heighten awareness of the challenges facing today's youth-genocide, environment degradation, the spread of HIV/AIDS, and widespread poverty-and to educate them about how they can play a meaningful leadership role. In its second year, the day-long event drew over 1,000 participants to hear students and local Texas leaders engage in panel discussions on social innovation, sustainability, public health and global human rights and humanitarian intervention; to explore a fair showcasing university and national resources for global projects; to learn about career opportunities in the international arena; and to view cultural performances from three major world regions.

Kalra, who grew up in Houston, is also a Toyota Community Scholar, Coca-Cola National Scholar, and winner of Presidential Community Service Award for his work in sustainable development. In addition to $1,000 cash award and a certificate that comes with Pal Award, Kalra also received a certificate from Congressman Lampson and an opportunity to intern in his office.

"Pal -- Make A Difference" endowment and award was established by Jaspreet (Rick) Pal in 2006 to recognize students making a positive impact on campus or in the community. Pal who was the first two-term Chair of Board of Directors at Texas Union has always encouraged student participation in leadership and public service initiatives. He is the Co-founder and CEO of AirGenerate, a manufacturer of patented energy saving devices for water heating with headquarters in Houston.





Kalra Named 2008 Pal Award Winner