Helen Donegan, vice president for Community Relations at the University of Central Florida, received a prestigious award for her longtime professional and personal commitment to philanthropy.

On National Philanthropy Day, Donegan was presented with the H. Clifford Lee Award for Professional Advancement. Lee, who helped to establish the Winter Park-based Edyth Bush Charitable Foundation, was known as the “dean of philanthropy” in Florida.

At UCF, Donegan helps cultivate, maintain and enhance the links between the university and the many people and organizations that it serves. Her division also coordinates programs for the community.

Donegan has been involved in many civic and professional organizations over the past several years. Her community involvement includes the American Heart Association, United Way’s Council of Women, Junior League of Greater Orlando and Orlando Repertory Theatre.

“She is a woman of great enthusiasm, so when you see her commitment to various causes it is contagious,” said UCF President John Hitt. “She understands the importance of so many causes in the community and is willing to give her time and energy to them.”

Click here to watch “Helen Donegan: 25 Years of a Giving Heart.”