Two young women who share a love for the written word are the recipients of an award that recognizes outstanding first-year graduate students in West Virginia Universitys Department of English.

This years Rebecca Mason Perry Award winners are Mandi Marie Frederick, who is pursuing a masters degree in English, and Kristin Abraham, who is working on a masters of fine arts degree in creative writing.

A native of Rivesville, Frederick earned her bachelors degree in English and philosophy from WVU in 2003. She is the daughter of Bill and Beth Ann Frederick.

Abraham, from Lapeer, Mich., earned her bachelors degree in English and creative writing from Central Michigan University in 2003. She is the daughter of Robert and Celene Abraham.

Established in 1983, the Perry award is given annually to outstanding first-year graduate students in English. The selection criteria is based on the students academic achievements, quality of writing, professional activities and faculty recommendations.

The late Rebecca Mason Perry received her bachelors and masters degrees in English from WVU . Her parents, the late Kermit and Rebecca Mason, established the award in her memory shortly after her death in 1983.