Kevin McReynolds, graduate student in the College of Business at the University of Nevada, Reno, is this year’s recipient of the Thornton Peace Prize, an annual award given to an individual or group from the campus community who exemplifies the philosophy that force is not an acceptable means of settling disputes.

The Thornton Peace Prize was established in 1970 by William and Barbara Thornton, both graduates of the University. This award, given annually, recognizes an individual or group from the University community who exemplifies by word or deed that use of force is not an acceptable means for settling disputes.

McReynolds will be honored at the Honor the Best ceremony at 3 p.m., Tuesday, May 15. The ceremony will be held in the Joe Crowley Student Union Ballrooms.

McReynolds said he was motivated to launch a non-profit, The McReynolds Project, after an incident with University police last fall that led to the launch of two investigations.

“Instead of harping on my experience, I wanted to create something positive from everything that happened to me,” McReynolds said in news release announcing the launch of his non-profit organization. “I believe that healthy, thriving communities need to be protected by people who represent them, in race, in culture and in value.”

McReynold’s news release also included supportive testimony for the project from community partners.

“I am honored to support The McReynolds Project, which aims to foster dialogue between diverse groups and law enforcement through recruitment of minority students to enter the policing profession,” University Police Chief Adam Garcia said. “I applaud Mr. McReynolds, whose vision is bound to have a direct impact on this community for generations to come.”

To learn more about The McReynolds Project, contact McReynolds at Kevin@TheMcReynoldsProject.com.