The Indiana University Alumni Association recently recognized Jeff F. Cappa of Richmond, Ind. for his volunteer service and dedication to the university. An alumnus of Indiana University East, Cappa is a recipient of the 2010 Indiana University Alumni Association President’s Award. He and seven other IU alumni were presented with the President’s Award on Friday, December 3, during a ceremony in Indianapolis. Established in 1993, the President’s Award is the highest honor given by the Alumni Association to a volunteer leader and honors their volunteer service to IU and their local communities.

Connecting Indiana University with the Wayne County community is a primary focus for Cappa, who has actively served on the IU East Alumni Association Board of Advisors since 2001.

Cappa is president of the IUEAA board and has helped coordinate numerous events, including the Homicide Investigation/Crime Scene Forum for students, community members and alumni. The event provided a unique opportunity to learn what is currently being taught in today’s classrooms. Cappa also works on student-recruiting initiatives and is working to establish internships with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office.

“Jeff serves his alma matter with integrity and compassion. He exemplifies the volunteer spirit by giving back to IU East through his service and leadership,” said IU East Director of Alumni Relations Terry Wiesehan.

Cappa received his associate degree in criminal justice at IU East in 1998. Cappa followed in his father’s footsteps to earn his degree locally. Dan Cappa completed his Bachelor of Science in Business in 1988. Continuing the legacy, Cappa’s sons also earned their Bachelor of Science in Continuing Studies degrees from IU East; Brandon Cappa is a 2005 graduate and Adam Cappa is a 2009 graduate. Cappa’s daughter, Courtney Cappa, recently completed her Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Indiana University Bloomington in summer 2010.

Cappa lives in Richmond with his wife, Susan. He is the Sheriff-elect of Wayne County, Ind., and is currently chief deputy of the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department. Cappa will assume his new role as sheriff on January 1.