By Mike Greife,
September 30, 2016
WARRENSBURG, MO – The family of University of Central Missouri freshman Abby Skrastins,
an open option major from Colorado Springs, Colo., was named UCM Family of the Year
as part of UCM’s annual Family Weekend Sept. 23-25.
Skrastins and her family were recognized during halftime of the Saturday, Sept. 24
football game between the UCM Mules and Emporia State University. Skrastins’ parents,
Tim and DeAnne Skrastins of Colorado Springs, were unable to attend. She was joined
by her aunt and uncle, Don and Judy Ritta.
In the essay Skrastins wrote nominating her family for the honor, she credited the
support she receives from her family with allowing her to succeed and become the person
she has grown to be. The added that the examples they set as they met the challenges
of life have inspired her.
The Family of the Year selected and introduced annually during the UCM Family Weekend
celebration. Students may nominate their families, submitting an essay with their
nomination. This is the 16th year for the honor, sponsored by the UCM United Student
Housing Association.
In addition to a $300 cash prize, Abby received tickets for the weekend football game
for her and her family members, pre-game tailgate tickets and t-shirts courtesy of
the UCM University Store.
