福利亚洲国产精品 celebrated the dedication, innovation and service of its staff during Staff Appreciation Day on May 29, honoring individuals and teams whose work exemplifies the university鈥檚 mission and values.

鈥淓ach of you exemplifies the spirit of 福利亚洲国产精品 through your passion, innovation and teamwork鈥揳ll of which has created an environment for excellence in learning, growth and success,鈥� Melissa Clodfelter, associate vice president for Human Resources and chief human resources officer, shared in her welcoming remarks to hundreds of university staff who had gathered for the celebration inside Schar Center.

The Rev. Kirstin Boswell, 福利亚洲国产精品’s chaplain and dean of multifaith engagement and an assistant professor of religious studies, followed with the invocation, where she encouraged staff to recognize and celebrate those who were honored during the ceremony, as well as those whose contributions often go unseen.

鈥淢ay we recognize the dignity in every role and the value in every contribution,鈥� Boswell said. 鈥淎nd may all of us leave this gathering renewed in purpose, strengthened by community and grateful for the opportunity to contribute our gifts to something larger than ourselves.鈥�

President Connie Ledoux Book provided updates on several university priorities, including progress on the Slattery Center, the university鈥檚 new center for health and wellness; the Roberts Academy at 福利亚洲国产精品 for children with dyslexia; the merger of Elon and Queens University of Charlotte; and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching classification for community and civic engagement.

Book said Staff Appreciation Day is about sharing thanks with colleagues for helping one another accomplish goals. 鈥淚 really love the strength of this community,鈥� she reflected. 鈥淭oday is a day for us to pause and take a day of gratitude for us to say ‘thank you.’鈥�

Retirees

Two retirees elected to have someone speak on their behalf as part of the ceremony. Kelly Elliston retired on December 31 as the executive assistant to the president. In a pre-recorded video, Book thanked Elliston for her friendship, commitment, excellence and partnership.

Now retired, Elliston shared that she appreciates drinking coffee on the porch to the sounds of birds singing. She recalled Elizabeth Bowman鈥檚 acceptance speech after winning the 2025 professional hourly staff member of the year award, where Bowen described Elon as a ship with captains, wheels, nuts and bolts. 鈥淚鈥檝e been one of those nuts for a really long time!鈥� Elliston said to friendly laughter from the audience.

Julie Myers, assistant for information technology, was recognized in a prepared video by her supervisor, Pat Donohue, deputy CIO. Donohue said Myers played a key role in budgeting, personnel management, business efficiency, bringing structural, accountability and cost awareness and was so meticulous that she would have backup plans for plans. Myers thanked several staff members in the audience for their time worked together.

Myers encouraged the audience to continue to look forward and not back as they take on new challenges. 鈥淭hat is why the windshield is bigger than the rearview mirror,鈥� she shared.

Read the stories of 2025-26 Elon retirees in the Today at Elon story.

Phoenix Awards

Four Phoenix Awards are presented each year to recognize outstanding innovation, collaboration and dedication to the university鈥檚 mission. Janet Williams, vice president for finance and administration and chief financial officer, announced the award winners.

Phoenix Innovation Award

Terrance Copling was named the 2026 Phoenix Innovation Award winner. The Phoenix Innovation Award is presented to a member of the Elon staff who has displayed innovation by creating, designing, improving or implementing a new idea or program that benefits the university or the community.

In his role as senior ERP application developer, Copling was recognized for designing a solution to allow Elon Benefits Hub, powered by PlanSource, to communicate directly with Colleague, a feat that was previously thought not possible. Copling鈥檚 innovation has eliminated manual data entry, which reduces errors, improves processing time and creates a smoother and more efficient experience for Elon employees.

Copling was described as someone who consistently demonstrates an ability to translate complex challenges into thoughtful and effective solutions 鈥撀爓hich he approaches with humility, patience and a palpable desire to help others succeed.

One nominator said about Copling, 鈥淗e is the person colleagues turn to when a challenge seems unsolvable because time and again, he proves that with enough creativity and persistence, nothing is out of reach.鈥�

When accepting the award, Copling shared his gratitude for the team effort, within his team other partners on campus. 鈥淚 couldn鈥檛 do this with you,鈥� he shared.

Phoenix Rising Award

Andrew Moffa was named the 2026 Phoenix Rising Award winner. The award is presented to one newer member of Elon鈥檚 staff who has consistently displayed excellence in pursuit of Elon鈥檚 mission with an engaged mind in inspired leadership and global citizenship.

Moffa is the assistant director of the Kernodle Center for Civic Life. He was described as the 鈥渕entor people dream of having鈥� and someone who 鈥渃reates an environment where students feel valued and empowered鈥� in several roles he plays, including advising students in Elon 101, mentoring members of the Elon Votes! Team and supporting students who work in the office.

One nominator shared that Moffa 鈥渆mbodies the essence of allyship: showing up consistently, listening deeply and helping students bring their goals and ideas to life.鈥� Students said he is 鈥渁n amazing support to any student he comes across鈥� and 鈥渁n open space for us.鈥�

Moffa expressed gratitude towards the Kernodle Center and the Division of Student Life, as well the students he works with. 鈥淚t comes back to the students that we work with,鈥� he shared. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 why I鈥檓 here, that鈥檚 why I love showing up to work 鈥� it wouldn鈥檛 be the same without them.鈥�

Phoenix Collaboration Award

The 2026 Phoenix Collaboration Award was presented to Elon Guided Reflection on Work Student Employment Mentoring Implementation Work Group, led by Alison Doherty, Jo-Rae Jennings, Emily Krechel, Noah Orr and Kameryn Taylor. ElonGROW is a framework designed to help students connect what they鈥檙e learning in the classroom with the skills they are developing in their campus jobs. Through brief conversations with their supervisors, students reflect on how their work supports their academic, professional and personal growth.

The award is presented to an Elon staff team or group that has fostered cooperation, collaboration and open communication across two or more departments/offices/centers on campus.

A nominator said about the group, 鈥淭he team modeled the very competencies it seeks to cultivate in students: communication, teamwork, leadership, professionalism and adaptive thinking.鈥�

ElonGROW was designed to be the fabric of supervision and student employment university-wide. Due to the collaborative efforts, supervisors now have clearer expectations, stronger training and accessible tools to facilitate intentional developmental conversations, and student employees are more likely to recognize transferable skills, articulate growth and connect work to academics and future careers.

Emily Krechel, director of new student programs, addressed the audience with ElonGROW members standing near the podium. As chair of the workgroup, she described the team as 鈥渢he most productive, efficient and collaborative people she has ever had the privilege of working with.鈥�

Phoenix Community Engagement Award

Tammy Hill, student health insurance and immunization compliance project manager, was named the 2026 Phoenix Community Engagement Award winner. The award recognizes a member of the Elon staff who has demonstrated exemplary service to the university, local or global community through their engagement in volunteer organizations.

Hill is a leader within the Occaneechi Band of the Saponi Nation and was described as someone who tirelessly contributes her time, expertise and energy to support cultural preservation, community engagement and organizational leadership.

Hill is profoundly dedicated to the preservation, protection and promotion of her tribal community鈥檚 history, culture and traditions. When she was 55, she pursued a degree in American history to deepen her understanding of Western expansion and the many successes of other tribes in the United States. She has served the OBSN as newsletter editor, a member of the Scholarship Committee and Tribal Secretary on the Tribal Council, and she is self-taught in the skills needed for her current role managing the tribal website, web store and trading post.

One nominator stated, 鈥淲hether supporting her tribal community, fostering cultural awareness or strengthening connections within the Elon community, she leads with humility, integrity and dedication. She demonstrates that service is not simply something she does 鈥� it is who she is.鈥�

Hill has been at Elon for more than two decades and leaves an indelible mark on students and colleagues alike who fondly reflect on her guidance, warmth and genuine care. She was not present at the ceremony and Jana Lynn Patterson, associate vice president for Student Life/dean of Student Health & Well-Being/assistant professor, accepted on her behalf.

Blanche Garrison Memorial Award

Drema Holder was named the 2026 Blanche Garrison Memorial Award recipient. The award was established in memory of the late Blanche Garrison, an Elon Medallion awardee, who served the university with distinction as a staff member at Maynard House. This award was created through the generosity of President Emeritus Leo Lambert and Laurie Lambert and recognizes a staff member who has contributed significantly to shaping the student experience at 福利亚洲国产精品 through their everyday commitments and actions to support, encourage and mentor Elon students.

Holder is the Moseley Center program assistant and was described as the epitome of graciousness and customer service, someone whose authentic kindheartedness, commitment and enthusiasm are vital to keeping her area of campus running effectively and making all who pass through its halls feel welcome.

One nominator shared that Holder 鈥渃ontinually puts others before herself, uplifting students and advocating for them to receive the recognition they deserve.鈥� Another nominator added, 鈥淚f Moseley is the heart of campus, then Drema is the heart of Moseley.鈥�

Holder shared that this is her 48th year in higher education and 鈥渁ll my students and all my coworkers have a special place in my heart.鈥�

Staff Member of the Year Awards

Three Staff Member of the Year Awards are presented annually to university non-teaching staff 鈥� one for each of the following categories: facilities management, professional hourly staff and administrative staff. Elon President Connie Ledoux Book announced the award winners.

Staff Member of the Year 鈥撀燩rofessional Hourly

Sharon Holmes was honored as the 2026 professional hourly staff member of the year. Holmes is a program assistant in the Office of Alumni Engagement and described as someone who goes above and beyond to facilitate events, manage student workers and make alumni feel welcome.

Nominators shared that Holmes is a 鈥渕om away from home鈥� for student workers and a valued source of support and friendship for her colleagues.鈥� Another team member added, whatever the team needs, she will do without question and with the biggest smile you will ever see.鈥�

She was further described as 鈥渢he welcoming voice on the phone, the smiling face when alumni stop by her office and the helpful hand when students have questions.

Upon receiving the award, Holmes shared that working at Elon is meaningful to her because she is from Alamance County. She expressed her appreciation to her team members, saying, 鈥淭hey are truly a pleasure to be around, to work with and to collaborate with. It鈥檚 a joy to support them.鈥�

Staff Member of the Year 鈥� Administrative

Ross Wade was named the 2026 administrative staff member of the year. He is Elon鈥檚 interim associate vice president for the Student Professional Development Center.

Wade was recognized for steering his department through a period of critical transition with 鈥渞emarkable grace transparency and intentionality.鈥� He is described as having thoughtful, future-focused leadership and lauded for restoring a sense of direction and vigor to the team and introduced policies that have substantially improved workflow efficiency.

One nominator stated that 鈥淗e leads by example 鈥� rolling up his sleeves, staying engaged and demonstrating through his own actions what dedication to this work actually looks like.鈥�

Wade expressed the challenges of stepping into a leadership role during a time of transition for SPDC. 鈥淚 stumble through it every single day with the grace and the help from the SPDC team,鈥� he shared. 鈥淭hank you so much for your patience, kindness and ideas.鈥�

Staff Member of the Year 鈥� Facilities Management

Carol Pulliam received the facilities management staff member of the year award. She is the custodian for Sato Commons.

Nominators used an array of sentiments to describe why Pulliam is, as they describe, one of the most important members of her building鈥檚 team: exceptionally detail-oriented, proud of her work and orderly. 鈥淪he ensures every facet of the physical space reflects the excellence for which Elon is known,鈥� a nominator said.

Pulliam was not only recognized for her immaculate work, but also her willingness to submit FixIt requests and helping students set up research posters.

Another nominator shared that her genuine warmth truly sets her apart. 鈥淗er willingness to engage people on the floor in meaningful conversations helps make our floor more connected and caring.鈥�

Addressing her staff peers, she expressed, 鈥渢hank you, God, and thank you to all the people that made this possible 鈥撀營 love each and every one of you.鈥�

Emergency and Crisis Response

• As a reminder, Campus Safety & Police will operate as normal, 24-hours per day, and can be reached at 336-278-5555.聽 They can also assist with connections to the Student Life on-call administrators, who are available 24/7 throughout the summer.
• SAFEline is always available at 336-278-3333 for confidential support with sexual and relationship violence response 鈥� it can also be a confidential resource to access on-call violence responders.
• For urgent mental health needs, the Counselor On-Call is available at 336-278-2222.
• For any life-threatening emergency, call 9-1-1.

TimelyCare Virtual Medical and Mental Health Care 鈥� available all summer

• Telemedicine and telemental health services through TimelyCare will be available to all Elon students, regardless of whether they are enrolled in summer classes, as long as they are in the United States.
• Information is available on the TimelyCare page of the Division of Student Life website, and can also be accessed through the appointments pages of the Counseling Services and Student Health Services websites.

Campus services available during Summer Break

Below are the hours for student service operations during Summer Break.

Belk Library

• Belk Library will be open 8 a.m. 鈥� 5 p.m. on Tuesday, May 26, through Thursday, May 28.
• Summer hours begin Saturday, June 1, and are as follows:
  • Mondays – Thursdays: 8 a.m.聽 鈥� 9 p.m.
  • Fridays: 8 a.m. 鈥� 5 p.m.
  • Saturdays: 9 a.m. 鈥� 5 p.m.
  • Sundays: 12 p.m. 鈥� 5 p.m.
• Visit the for current library hours.

Campus Bookstore

• Starting Tuesday, May 26, the bookstore will be open weekdays from 10 a.m. 鈥� 4 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. 鈥� 2 p.m. It will be closed on Sundays and holidays coinciding with university closures.
• Visit the for information about hours or online shopping.

Campus Recreation

• Koury will be closed for an operations reset on Thursday, May 21, starting at 2 p.m., and will reopen on Monday, June 1, at 11 a.m. Summer hours for Campus Recreation facilities are the following:
  • Koury Center
    • Mondays 鈥� Fridays:聽 11 a.m. 鈥� 7 p.m.
  • Driving Range
    • Mondays 鈥� Fridays: noon 鈥� 7 p.m.
    • Saturdays and Sundays: 9 a.m. 鈥� 7 p.m.
    • Last bucket at 6 p.m.
• Visit the Campus Recreation website for more information.

Counseling Services

• No clinical appointments are available Monday, May 26, through Friday, May 30. Starting Monday, June 2, hours will include the following:
  • Administrative Office Hours: weekdays, 8 a.m. 鈥� 5 p.m.
  • Clinical Hours: Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. 鈥撀� 4 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. 鈥� 1 p.m.
  • Closed weekends and holidays
• Call 336-278-7280 during administrative office hours or visit the Counseling Services website to schedule an appointment.
• Important updates on available services and聽online scheduling are available on the Counseling Services website.
• On-demand mental health support is available 24/7 throughout the summer using TimelyCare鈥檚 鈥淭alkNow鈥� service. For information about how to access the service, visit TalkNow on the Counseling Services website.

Elon Dining

• Starting Tuesday, May 26, Lakeside Dining Hall will be open weekdays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. It will be closed on most weekends and holidays coinciding with university closures.
• Additional hours may be available based on the camps and conference schedule.
• Menus and hours are always available .

Elon Express and Campus Transportation

• All Elon Express routes will stop service at the end of Wednesday, May 20 at 10 a.m. Elon Express will resume routes in August with the start of the Fall semester.
• Elon Express schedules and routes and E-Ride Services are available online.

Moseley Center

• Starting Tuesday, May 26, the Moseley Center’s hours of operation are as follows:
  • Mondays through Fridays, 8 a.m. 鈥� 5 p.m.
  • Saturdays, 9 a.m. 鈥� 1 p.m.
  • Closed on Sundays
• Irazu Coffee will be open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. 鈥� noon.
• Updated building hours of operation are available on the Moseley Center website.

Mail Services

• Weekdays: 8:30 a.m. 鈥� 5 p.m.
• Closed weekends and holidays coinciding with University closures
• If you are in Elon for the summer (June & July) and would like to continue receiving mail and packages, you MUST complete the Summer Address Notification Form in .
• Visit the Summer Mail page for more information. This only applies to returning students, not students who have graduated.

Student Health Services

• Starting Tuesday, May 26, 2026:
  • Appointments with a provider are available every Monday and Tuesday, 9 a.m. 鈥� 4 p.m. and every other Wednesday beginning June 3 from 9 a.m. 鈥� 11:30 a.m. in the office and in Francis Center for SHS grads only from 12:40鈥�4:30 p.m.
  • Closed weekends and holidays.
  • Administrative staff will be available by phone Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. 鈥� 4 p.m.; closed for lunch from noon 鈥� 1 p.m.
• Call 336-278-7230 during operational hours to schedule an appointment or make an appointment online through the PhoenixHealth portal (instructions online).
• TimelyCare medical telehealth service is available 24/7 throughout the summer.
• For information about how to access the service, visit the appointments page of the Student Health Services website.

Patrick Murphy G鈥�01

Assistant vice president for financial aid

Patrick Murphy joined Elon at the beginning of 1994 as bursar for Elon College to find a career that would, as he put it, add positivity to his day. Retiring at the end of the month, Murphy has served in a myriad of roles at Elon, including director of financial aid, senior associate dean and director of financial aid and assistant vice president for financial aid.

During the Faculty/Staff Awards Luncheon, Greg Zaiser, vice president for enrollment, credited Murphy with quietly and deliberately supporting Elon鈥檚 growth from a regional college to national and international distinction.

鈥淲hat I know now is because of Pat鈥檚 patience, accessibility and strong desire for success,鈥� added Zaiser.

After retirement, Murphy looks forward to spending more time with his wife and his five grandchildren, who are all under the age of six. He says his favorite memory at Elon was picking up astronaut and former senator John Glenn and his wife from the airport and guiding them across campus to multiple events.

鈥淚 will miss the people I work with,鈥� he said. 鈥淓lon has been the only place I worked where my friends are also people I work with.鈥�

Beth McCain

Assistant teaching professor of accounting

Beth McCain joined Elon in 2016 teaching part-time as an adjunct after teaching at a community college. She was hired permanently in 2021 as a lecturer and also served as the director of the Master of Science accounting program. She retired on December 31, 2025.

While at Elon, McCain led January Term study abroad courses to Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam and was the inaugural faculty member for the Martha and Spencer Love School of Business study abroad program in Singapore.

At the Faculty/Staff Awards Luncheon, Catherine Chiang, professor of accounting and chair of the department of accounting, described McCain as one of the most dedicated and student-centered educators she had the privilege of knowing. 鈥淵our decade of service has shaped careers, strengthened our programs and raised the standards for what it means to be an Elon educator,鈥� said Chiang.

McCain returned the compliments to her department chair and gave a shoutout to Linda Poulson, who gave McCain 鈥渁 chance鈥� and also to her husband, who was in attendance.

Now retired, McCain is volunteering for Guilford County Animal Services in Greensboro and taking a French course at Elon in preparation for a three-month trip to France in the fall. Reflecting on her time at Elon, McCain said, 鈥淚 will greatly miss the amazing faculty and staff that I worked with as well as relationships that I developed with my students over the years.鈥�

Linda Niedziela

Associate professor of biology and chair of the Department of Biology

Linda Niedziela joined Elon in 2001 excited to teach courses in genetics and biotechnology. She was attracted to the university鈥檚 strengths in undergraduate education and undergraduate research. She will retire at the end of May after serving in a myriad of roles, including biology department chair, assistant professor, associate professor, director of the science branch of Elon College Fellows and the Japheth E. Rawls chair for undergraduate research in science.

Niedziela said she will miss what she calls the 鈥渄aily therapy sessions.鈥� She shared that every day during the semester, whoever is able will meet for lunch on the first floor of McMichael and discuss wide-ranging topics, including teaching tips, research reports, personal stories about families and pets and anything else that is on the mind of lunch attendees.

She said, 鈥淚 will miss the wonderful faculty and staff colleagues in the biology department who have become like family to me.鈥�

After retirement, Niedziela and her husband, Carl, an adjunct assistant professor of biology at Elon, who will also be retiring, will travel with their dogs in an airstream travel trailer and spend time in their woodworking shop. She will also be devoting more time training and competing with her Shetland sheepdog in performance dog sports.

Anthony Hatcher

Professor of journalism and chair of the Journalism Department

Anthony Hatcher joined Elon in 2002 and has served as associate professor of journalism, full professor of journalism and the inaugural chair of the Department of Journalism.

Hatcher said he did not have a passport until he joined Elon in his early 40鈥檚. 鈥淪ince 2004, I have taken students to Hong Kong, South Africa and multiple European countries,鈥� he reflected. Hatcher also created a religion and media course in his first year, which he taught every year since.

One of those colleagues, Harlen Makemson, professor of communication design, praised Hatcher at the Faculty/Staff Luncheon for Hatcher鈥檚 empathy and humanity during what he described as a time of upheaval in the media world, brought on by new technologies. 鈥淎nd while it’s true that Anthony Hatcher serves on virtually every major standing committee at Elon, it’s his humanity, his warmth and his care, that is his most impactful service to his university.鈥�

鈥淚 will miss being with students, and I will miss seeing my colleagues 鈥撀爉y friends 鈥撀燿aily or weekly,鈥� said Hatcher. During the ceremony, he added, 鈥淚 hope in addition to teaching all those wonderful students I鈥檝e had over the past nearly quarter century, I hope in some small way, I made their lives a little better because God knows they helped me be better.

After retirement, Hatcher looks forward to biking, hiking, travel and spending time with his granddaughter. 鈥淲riting will be part of retirement as well, since I can鈥檛 sing or paint,鈥� he added.

Robert Moorman

Frank S. Holt, Jr. professor of business leadership and professor of organizational behavior

Robert Moorman joined Elon as the Frank Holt Jr professor of business leadership in 2011, a title he held throughout his time at Elon. Retiring in May, Moorman has also served as the department chair for the Department of Management, Entrepreneurship and International Business.

During the Faculty, Staff Awards Luncheon, Haya Ajjan, dean of the Martha and Spencer Love School of Business and professor of management information systems, shared that Moorman has a gift few others do 鈥撀爐he ability to ask the types of questions that 鈥渕ake you stop walking, look around at where you actually are and suddenly see it鈥 question that stays with you for the rest of your life.鈥� Ajjan offered Moorman a golf club afterwards in the spirit of his retirement.

During the ceremony, Moorman shared that education is so much more than reading books and looking at stats. 鈥淚t鈥檚 really about the relationships we have,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t’s the relationships with our students and the utter joy of seeing people cycle through during this really important time of their lives, you know, touching you and stepping in and stepping out and then seeing them grow as they go.鈥�

Moorman said his favorite memories are those involving friendships with colleagues and partnerships with students. 鈥淚 have fond memories of a few colleagues congregating in my office talking about the joys and frustrations of the day,鈥� he said.聽 鈥淚 also have fond memories of holding classes that just seemed to 鈥榳ork鈥� that day and then talking with students afterward about how they continued thinking about our discussions.鈥�

After retiring at the end of this month, Moorman looks forward to what he calls unstructured adventure. 鈥淚 am looking forward to a time of boredom that then grows into something new, unplanned and adventurous. What fun!鈥�

Charity Johansson

Professor of physical therapy education and chair of the Doctor of Physical Therapy Department.

In 1999, Charity Johnsson joined what would become the Doctor of Physical Therapy program as one of its first faculty. She retired in December 2025 after decades of service in which she held positions of associate professor, full professor, faculty administrative fellow, interim associate department chair, interim department chair and program director, department chair and program director and university parliamentarian.

Johansson said she is already missing the 鈥渄aily exchanges with colleagues whose brilliant minds and genuinely kind hearts鈥� have shaped her over nearly three decades. Likewise, she will miss the students, and their 鈥渋nfectious enthusiasm, their compassion and the joy of watching them transform in ways they hadn鈥檛 even imagined possible.鈥�

During the Faculty/Staff Awards Luncheon, Crystal Ramsey praised Johansson as a 鈥渃ornerstone of the Elon academic community, whose legacy is defined not just by the position she has held, but by the enduring way she has nurtured the hearts, minds and professional identities of future healthcare providers.鈥� Ramsey is an associate professor of physical therapy education and a former student of Johansson鈥檚.

At the ceremony, Johansson reflected on the retirement of Gerry Francis, who served as professor emeritus of mathematics and provost emeritus.

鈥淕erry Francis told me he doesn鈥檛 miss the work, but he really misses the people 鈥� and I get that,” she said.

She also said it was a privilege working with so many in the Elon community who have encouraged her, challenged her and made her laugh to help her be a better a human. 鈥�Fred Rubeck, you鈥檙e among those,鈥� Johansson added, honoring the late professor of performing arts and chair of the Department of Performing Arts.

Now retired, Johansson said she is enjoying time outdoors with family and close friends, planning travel and trying new ventures, including fiction writing.

Marcia Dodson

Program assistant for the Station at Mill Point Neighborhood

Marcia Dodson joined Elon in 2015 and is the proud mother of three sons who graduated from Elon. She will be retiring at the end of May and has served as a service desk analyst for facilities management, program assistant in the Danieley Neighborhood and Station at Mill Point.

A favorite memory of Dodson鈥檚 while at Elon is joining the London Experience for staff, where she built relationships with colleagues she had not yet had the opportunity to meet while working at Elon. 鈥淲hat an awesome experience!鈥� she reflected.

After retirement, Dodson looks forward to being a traveling grandparent with her husband.

Rosemary Haskell

Professor of English

Rosemary Haskell joined Elon in 1985 and will be retiring in August. She has held the roles of temporary instructor and assistant, associate and later, full professor of English.

Haskell said she will most miss her kind and interesting colleagues, as well as the 鈥渆nergizing power of the new class of bright-eyed and bushy-tailed first-years each August.鈥�

One of Haskell鈥檚 favorite memories at Elon is during the transition of the Fighting Christians to the Phoenix. She enjoyed the papier-mache birds and eggs in trees around campus that offered a clue to the new mascot.

After retirement, Haskell said she plans to spend time with her family and do some home improvement work.

Cheryl Riley

Custodian

Cheryl Riley joined Elon in 2013 as a custodian and will retire at the end of May. 鈥淚 will miss the people I work with,鈥� she said. 鈥淎nd I look forward to spending time with my grandkids.鈥�

Linda Dunn

Adjunct assistant professor of Peace and Conflict Studies

Linda Dunn joined Elon in 1998 as the director of the Alamance County Dispute Settlement Center, where she trained a group of students and returned to train several faculty members in mediation skills, who later became volunteer mediators for the center. Dunn鈥檚 official start date on record is 2001, when she taught a two-credit mediation and conflict resolution skills course as part of a new minor called Nonviolent Studies. She retired at the end of December, 2025.

Federico Pous spoke on behalf of Dunn during the Faculty/Staff Awards luncheon, praising Dunn鈥檚 ability to teach hands-on peaceful conflict resolution skills and strategies across different social backgrounds.

鈥淟inda’s way of teaching and interacting with students, staff and professors, makes you feel that you are equal to her in the same community space,鈥� he shared.

鈥淚 will miss the students and their passion the things I teach,鈥� said Dunn. Two of her students attended the luncheon.

After retirement, she plans to attend cultural events on campus and potentially assist in future facilitated discussions on campus. She will also continue to volunteer as a mediator at the Alamance County District court, continue restorative circle skills and mediation and training skills with Restorative Justice Durham and the Orange County District County District court.

鈥淚 will continue to be an activist for restorative justice and peacemaking organizations as we navigate the chaos and violence in our world,鈥� she added.

Elizabeth Bailey

Assistant teaching professor of exercise science

Elizabeth Bailey began her career at Elon in 2004 and, enjoying the vibe of the community, wanted to be 鈥減art of it all.鈥� She started as a lecturer for the required wellness course, lectured for the School of Education before joining Exercise Science.

Retiring at the end of Spring semester, Bailey said she will most miss her colleagues and all the 鈥渇riends among the faculty and staff鈥� she has made while at Elon.

鈥淚 will also miss the opportunities to continue to learn that are available at Elon, whether it be through taking classes or participating in workshops or going abroad,鈥� she added. She said, while at Elon, he has learned a lot.

Bailey said her retirement plans continue to evolve, and she still intends to exercise classes and do some research on the side.

Kim Giles, 鈥�11 G鈥�16

Associate director of communications for the Student Professional Development Center

Since her first role in 1995, Kim Giles has served in various roles at the university, including data entry in admissions and accounting, budget clerk in the physical plant, program assistant for Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Studies, Engineering, Chemistry, and Physics, and assistant director of communications in the Student Professional Development Center.

Giles retired during the summer of 2025. She said she cherishes the opportunity to earn an MBA at Elon along with her daughter. She said about the experience, 鈥渨hat an unforgettable experience that was in crossing the stage along with my daughter to get our MBA鈥檚 together 鈥撀爄t was quite surreal.鈥�

Giles also reflected on traveling with peers and faculty to Vietnam and Singapore, the many evolutions of Staff Appreciation Day, and being honored as the staff member of the year 鈥撀燼n experience she said she will cherish forever.

Since retiring, Giles has taken nine cruises and has done kayaking, camping and gardening. She looks forward to continuing to spend time with family.

Sharon Moss LaRocco

University accompanist and instructor in music

Sharon Moss LaRocco was recognized at the Faculty/Staff Awards Luncheon by Hallie Hogan, associate professor of music. LaRocco joined the Elon Music Department in 1988 as a pianist for musical theater productions, music ensembles and student recitals.

Hogan shared, 鈥淎lthough she kept a very low profile, there was never any doubt about this, because she never missed a beat, much less a note, and maintained high quality for every performance she gave,” Hogan said.

She shared that students developed a strong admiration for LaRocco鈥檚 talent and a deep love for her kind and understanding nature.

Beyond Elon, Sharon has devoted herself to advocating for people with autism, through her work as a leader in the Office of Society of North Carolina, notably promoting autism awareness for the Native American communities of Western North Carolina.

At the awards ceremony, LaRocco shared that one of her favorite memories was the construction of Rhodes Stadium, which signaled to her the emergence of a marching band.

鈥淲ho doesn鈥檛 love a marching band?鈥� asked LaRocco to the audience. 鈥淎nd the spirit and the energy it creates walking through the campus, en route to the games.鈥�

Jana Lynn Patterson

Associate vice president for Student Life/dean of student health & well-being/assistant professor

During the Faculty/Staff Awards Luncheon, Jon Dooley, vice president for Student Life and associate professor of education, described Patterson as someone who is consistent in how she shows up for others, patient when a young leader makes a mistake, honest with students and colleagues even when it is hard and someone who not only believes in others, and one who helps others believe in themselves.

鈥淪he supported students in college through tragedy, advised student organizations, and celebrated their success,鈥� said Dooley. 鈥淪he has created spaces of welcome and belonging, and met the students in their darkest hours, helping them piece together on plans to move forward.鈥�

Patterson was also recognized for her 40 years of service and held back tears while addressing the audience. A first-generation student from Hope Mills, North Carolina, Patterson said her parents could have never dreamed where she is today.

鈥淭o my staff and colleagues, you are the A-Team,鈥� she shared. “But to everyone in this community, I want you to know that every day has been an honor and a pleasure to be a part of this community and to have worked with you.鈥�

Also retiring

Retiring staff members will be recognized on May 29 as part of Staff Appreciation Day.

• Joan Barnatt
• Mona DeVries
• Chris Dockrill, head women’s golf coach
• Sharon Hodge
• John Chinnici, community service officer
• David “DD” Donohue, painter
• Kelly Elliston
• Gloria Graves, custodian
• William “Tom” Hall, telecommunications technician
• Rhonda Kosusko, associate director of career services, education and Elon
• Katherine Rodriguez, assistant director for application processing
• Michelle Stephens, custodian
• Ed Williams, service desk analyst
• Donna Wood , electronic services/ acquisitions librarian

Opening the celebration with remarks, Jon Dooley, vice president for Student Life, reflected on the division鈥檚 role in supporting and transforming students throughout their Elon journeys.

鈥淲e educate students and we transform lives,鈥� Dooley said.

Throughout his remarks, Dooley emphasized the importance of relationships and the meaningful impact Student Life professionals have on students both inside and outside the classroom. 鈥淭he relationships we build with students 鈥� and with each other 鈥� are our greatest assets,鈥� Dooley said

The celebration highlighted milestones from across the division and university, including launching the division鈥檚 new five-year plan, signing the Okanagan Charter, re-energizing the Hazing Prevention Coalition, expanding resources and communications for graduate students and being named one of the most promising places to work in student affairs for the sixth consecutive year.

The event also celebrated staff service milestones, departmental accomplishments, graduate apprentices, upcoming retirees and the professional achievements of colleagues across the division.

Special guests in attendance included Provost Rebecca Kohn and Vice President Emeritus Smith Jackson.

As the academic year comes to a close, the event served as a reflection on the collective care, collaboration and commitment that continue to shape the student experience at Elon.

Division of Student Life Award Recipients

Academic Partnership Award

The Academic Partnership Award is presented annually to a Student Life professional and department that worked closely with academic partners to design a program or service that purposefully integrates curricular and co-curricular experiences or connects social and intellectual activities in an intentional manner.

Professional: Boaz Avraham-Katz, Truitt Center

Department: Counseling Services

Administrative Professional Award

The Administrative Professional is presented annually to a Student Life administrative professional (hourly staff member) who exhibits exceptional ability, commitment, and excellence in supporting student success and departmental/divisional priorities and projects.

Professional: Catherine Little, administrative assistant for campus life/New Student Programs

Collaboration Award

The Collaboration Award is presented to an individual and department that has excelled in forming partnerships within and/or outside the Division of Student Life to enhance the student experience by advancing the division鈥檚 and/or the university鈥檚 priorities.

Professional: Sam Lopez, Student Involvement

Department: Campus Recreation

Inclusive Excellence Award

The Inclusive Excellence Award is presented to a professional and department that has demonstrated a commitment to fostering a positive campus climate and community through advancing diversity, equity and inclusion.

Professional: Emily Krechel, New Student Programs

Department: Student Care & Outreach

Innovation Award

The Innovation Award is presented to a professional and department that has developed new, unique programs, services, or ways of working to support our divisional mission and goals.

Professional: AK Krauss, Gender & LGBTQIA Center

Department: Gender & LGBTQIA Center

Mentoring Award

The Mentoring Award is presented annually to a Student Life professional who is an exceptional mentor to students and engages with them in purposeful student development activities.

Professional: Destiny Payne, New Student Programs

New Professional Award

The New Professional Award is presented to an individual serving in their first or second year at Elon聽who exhibits exceptional ability and commitment to work as a Student Life professional.

Professional: Ivie Shelton, Campus Recreation

Professional Achievement Award

The Professional Achievement Award is presented to an individual who has made a significant contribution to the student affairs profession.

Professional: Jana Lynn Patterson

Professional Development Scholarship

The Professional Development Scholarship Award is designed to extend beyond those opportunities to provide employees with support for continued professional growth through participation in selected professional experiences. Participants are expected to develop a creative strategy for sharing insights and lessons learned with colleagues on campus.

Recipient: Callie Kelly, Health Promotion

Years of Service

5 Years聽

• Kirstin Boswell
• Meredith Harrison
• AK Krauss
• Cara Plasencia
• Tumi Shadreck
• Christina Wittstein

10 Years

• Shane Atkinson
• Callie Kelly
• Peter Tremblay

15 Years聽

• Jan Register
• Marilyn Slade

20 Years

• Susan Lindley
• Chris Troxler

40 Years

• Jana Lynn Patterson

Last Pop-Up Swap Shop of the semester

Monday, May 11, 4-6 p.m., Jimmy Powell Tennis Courts

Refresh your wardrobe at the final Pop-Up Swap Shop of the semester by trading clothes you no longer wear for new-to-you pieces. No items to swap? You can still participate by committing to a sustainable habit or donating fabric scraps to earn free clothing. Stop by to shop sustainably, connect with others, and give clothes a second life.

Spring 2026 Cram Jam: Gear up for Finals with SUB!

Tuesday, May 12, 8-11 p.m., Moseley Center and Lakeside Dining Hall

Need a study break before finals? Join the Student Union Board for this semester鈥檚 Cram Jam, featuring massage chairs, giveaways, crafts, great food, and more. Relax, recharge, and take a break from the stress with friends. This end-of-semester tradition is one you won鈥檛 want to miss. Visit for more details.

Reading day and Exam Week schedule

Reading Day is Tuesday, May 12

Final Exams are from Wednesday through Tuesday, May 13-19

Be sure to check the undergraduate exam week schedule, which is found online on the Registrar鈥檚 website. The site also includes information about exam absence and rescheduling policies.

Housing Move-Out Reminders

Make your move-out process stress-free by checking the steps for check-out information. Visit the Residence Life website for a full guide and checklist. Here are some key reminders:

• Residence halls close Wednesday, May 20, at 10 a.m.
• University-owned apartments and houses close Sunday, May 31, at 10 a.m.

Ask your RA, apartment manager, or house manager for further checkout instructions.

Don鈥檛 trash it!

Don鈥檛 Trash It! is 福利亚洲国产精品鈥檚 end-of-year move-out program that encourages students, faculty, and staff to donate items at various donation stations throughout campus, rather than putting reusable items in the trash. For a list of what can be collected and drop-off locations on- and off-campus. Learn more and sign up to volunteer at the collection stations on the Don鈥檛 Trash It website.

This is the last Phoenix Five message for the academic year.聽 Good luck on exams, enjoy your summer, and congratulations to the Class of 2026!

Her remarks reflected the evening鈥檚 themes of belonging, connection and growth as students, faculty and staff gathered to honor graduating seniors who have engaged in or identify with Asian and Pacific Islander cultures and traditions.

鈥淭his community met me where I was, and I have you all to thank for helping me find my way into it,” said Wible.

Throughout the evening, the celebration included award recognitions, a stole ceremony and concluded with student performances. Awards presented during the celebration included the Beacon Award, Asian Studies Awards, Academic Excellence Awards, Illumination Award, Radiance Award, Outstanding Senior Award and student-voted superlatives recognizing members of the Asian and Pacific Islander community.

The stole ceremony served as one of the ceremony鈥檚 most symbolic moments, symbolizing connection to heritage, identity and community. Along with their stole, students received a booklet of cards from prominent individuals who helped light their way during their Elon journey.

Co-designed by Tiffany Huang 鈥�23 and Alana Evora 鈥�24, the stole featured flower petals as a motif representing the diversity and individuality within the Asian and Pacific Islander community.

The design also aligned with the 2026 Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month theme, 鈥淒istinctly in Bloom, Growing Together,鈥� which resonated throughout the evening in the celebration鈥檚 remarks and intentional decor. Each table centerpiece highlighted a different flower representing various aspects of the Asian and Pacific Islander community. It also included mall booklet containing cards from people who have lit the way for their journey at Elon.

鈥淓ach flower represents the individuality and the uniqueness within our communities, whilst also reminding us of what ties all of us together,鈥� said George Dou, assistant director of the Center for Race, Ethnicity and Diversity Education.

Dou also spoke about the importance of community and shared growth.

鈥淓ach senior participating in our ceremony tonight has traced a unique path in the way that they have bloomed during their time here at Elon,鈥� Dou said. 鈥淕rowth, in many ways, cannot happen without a community.鈥�

As the evening concluded, Wible reminded students that the spirit of community does not end with the night’s celebration, encouraging them to continue supporting and empowering each other beyond Elon.

鈥淭he light doesn鈥檛 go out when tonight ends 鈥� it goes with us into every room, every community and every person that needs to find their way in,鈥� Wible said.

2026 Award Recipients

Beacon Award聽

The Beacon Awards are given to two faculty or staff members who have gone above and beyond to be a beacon of support to the API community at 福利亚洲国产精品.

Beacon Award Recipients: Hillary Zaken, director of multifaith programming and engagement and Raj Ghoshal, associate professor of sociology

Illumination Award

The Illumination Award recognizes a student whose scholarship has shed light on the understanding of APISA identities, cultures, history or heritage.

Illumination Award Recipient: Emma Hash 鈥�26

Radiance Award

The Radiance Award recognizes a sophomore or junior student who has shown great dedication, passion, or awareness around API identities or topics at Elon. This individual has gone above and beyond to create a more inclusive and representative campus for Elon as a whole.

Radiance Award Recipient: Emily Wright 鈥�27

Brilliance Award

Formerly the Outstanding Senior Award, the Brilliance Award recognizes the leadership, dedication and the impact a graduating senior has made on the Asian and Pacific Islander community throughout their journey at Elon.

Brilliance Award Recipient: Reagan Wible 鈥�26

Student Superlatives聽

• Most Likely To Be In The API Room: Pagnapech Ngoun 鈥�26
• Most Likely To Be On A Reality TV Show: Olivia Mohil 鈥�27
• Most Likely To Brighten Your Day: Seleyna Bautista 鈥�26
• Busiest Bee: Lillian Chen 鈥�26

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It was the most joyous of celebrations of love, pride, identity and academic achievement.

Members of the LGBTQIA community gathered inside Alumni Gym on May 8 for an awards and recognition ceremony honoring soon-to-be graduates from 福利亚洲国产精品鈥檚 Class of 2026.

Hosted by the Gender and LGBTQIA Center, the 14th annual Lavender Celebration recognized excellence, leadership and advocacy for and within the university鈥檚 LGBTQIA community. As they crossed the stage to be recognized, honorees were applauded by family, friends and mentors who filled the floor of a gymnasium ringed by flags that represented the identities of student participants.

Celebrants each received a rainbow stole symbolizing their commitment to inclusion, queer and trans joy, and the legacy of LGBTQIA communities at Elon and beyond.

鈥淭his moment is a reminder that being yourself is not always easy, but it is always powerful,鈥� John Moses-Brownson, 福利亚洲国产精品鈥檚 associate director of career advising for pre-professional health, said in welcoming remarks. 鈥淚t鈥檚 something we build together, in community, in small acts of courage that add up over time. And getting to witness the results of your courage today is such a gift.

鈥淢oments like this don鈥檛 just happen. They鈥檙e built by the people in this room, so thank all of you for building together for others and for yourselves.鈥�

This moment is a reminder that being yourself is not always easy, but it is always powerful.

–聽John Moses-Brownson, 福利亚洲国产精品鈥檚 associate director of career advising for pre-professional health

Elon鈥檚 program traces its origins to efforts in 2012 by Jess Huynh 鈥�12 and Raafe Purnsley 鈥�12, alongside Professor Kirstin Ringelberg and other community members, to organize the first celebration. In 2022, a complementary program was launched to recognize December graduates from the School of Law and the School of Health Sciences.

The latest ceremony included an awards presentation that recognized notable student and employee accomplishments and commitments to inclusion on campus.

Award Winners

Outstanding Graduate (Natalie Hudson 鈥�26): This award is for a graduate who has shown great dedication, passion, or awareness around gender & LGBTQIA identities or topics during their time at 福利亚洲国产精品.

Employee Champion for LGBTQIA Inclusion (Abby Igoe, Assistant Director of Multimedia Projects and Turner Theatre Manager): A faculty, administrator, or staff member who has shown great dedication, passion, or awareness around gender & LGBTQIA identities or topics specific during their time at 福利亚洲国产精品. This individual could be part of the LGBTQIA communities or an ally.

Event of the Year (鈥淒ragstravaganza鈥� hosted by the Events Team from the Gender and LGBTQIA Center): An event or initiative that has contributed to improving dedication, passion, or awareness around gender & LGBTQIA identities or topics specific to the 2025-2026 academic year.

Alumni Recognition and Encouragement

Near the conclusion of the ceremony, Jonathan R. Monti 鈥�08, a student affairs professional at Rollins College in Florida who serves as president of the Elon LGBTQIA Alumni Network, presented Elon alum David Carter 鈥�92 with an honorary graduate stole in recognition of Carter鈥檚 work to create space, visibility, and belonging in the Alamance County community.

Monti also offered a message of hope and support for the students seated before him.

鈥淔or us as LGBTQIA individuals, community has never been optional.鈥㊣t has been life giving,鈥� Monti said. 鈥淚t is how we survive, how we celebrate, and how we build futures that once felt impossible. As you begin this next phase of your journey, know that you already have all that you need: your values, your voice, and your community. Wherever the journey may take you, create community, remain rooted in a practice of love and care and empathy, and always speak your truth, even when your voice may be unsteady.

鈥淭oday, we gather in the community to celebrate you, your resilience, your brilliance, your joy. 鈥℡our successes in achievements are immeasurable. Your stories matter, and you belong. Now and always.鈥�

Wherever the journey may take you, create community, remain rooted in a practice of love and care and empathy, and always speak your truth, even when your voice may be unsteady.

– Jonathan R. Monti ’08, president of the Elon LGBTQIA Alumni Network

Drawn by the strength of Elon鈥檚 student life program and the opportunity to grow professionally, Patterson arrived in 1986 planning to stay only a short time.

鈥淭he student life program at Elon was well-regarded at the state and in the region and in the country even back in 1986,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 saw it as an opportunity to be a part of that staff and to grow professionally. And then Elon just grew into our home.鈥�

Over the years, Patterson witnessed Elon鈥檚 transformation from a small college into a nationally recognized university.

鈥淲hat I didn鈥檛 appreciate at the beginning was how the physical transformation was really the precursor for the cultural transformation of the institution,鈥� she said.

That cultural transformation is most visible in her work with students. Known affectionately as 鈥淒ean P,鈥� Patterson built her leadership approach through relationships grounded in accessibility, respect and authenticity. She emphasized servant leadership, encouraging students to see leadership not as personal elevation, but as a contribution to a larger community.

鈥淚 was going to be a good listener with them, but also going to ask them the tough questions so that the decisions that they made were aligned with both their values and the values of the institution,鈥� she said.

This approach also shaped her work with student government. Patterson balanced openness with accountability, pushing students to slow down, ask better questions and fully understand the implications of their ideas. Rather than reacting in the moment, students were expected to research, refine and sometimes rethink their positions.

“Before you bring this for legislation, I want you to do your homework,鈥� she said. 鈥淏e thoughtful and be a critical thinker.鈥�

For Patterson, the most enduring measure of her work is what students carry forward. Watching alumni grow into leaders, mentors and engaged citizens has reinforced her belief in higher education as both a space for learning and transformation.

As she steps into retirement, Patterson remains optimistic about Elon鈥檚 future. She points to the university鈥檚 ability to balance tradition with innovation while staying grounded in its values.

鈥淚鈥檓 in my jubilee year, as we call it,鈥� she said. 鈥淚 get a little emotional at Elon Day and those things, but I鈥檝e received the gift to be able to reflect in a place that has been such an integral part of my life and my family鈥檚 lives.鈥�

For all of Patterson鈥檚 contributions over her 40-year career, from mentoring generations of students to strengthening the university鈥檚 focus on student health and well-being, her service reflects what President Book described as 鈥渁 job well done.鈥�

Learn more about the podcast and listen to the episode here.

Omicron Delta Kappa, the National Leadership Honor Society, is rooted in the belief that leadership of exceptional quality and versatility in college should be recognized and encouraged. Since 1977, Elon鈥檚 Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa has advanced this mission by recognizing student achievement across disciplines.

Awards were presented by faculty and staff, including President Connie Ledoux Book; Jon Dooley, vice president for student life; and Deandra Little, associate provost for faculty affairs and professor of English.

William Moseley Brown Leadership Award

Presented by Elon鈥檚 Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa, this award is given to the student who consistently demonstrates the highest ideals of Omicron Delta Kappa: scholarship, service, integrity, character and fellowship, including providing distinguished leadership to his or her peers. The award is named in honor of a former Elon faculty member and one of the founders of the national chapter of Omicron Delta Kappa.

William Moseley Brown Leadership Award Recipient: Maleah Proctor 鈥�26

Student Media Award

The Student Media Award is presented to the student who has contributed the most to advancing communications on campus during the current academic year.

Student Media Award Recipient: Cristina Madaio 鈥�26

Leadership Studies Award

The Leadership Studies Award is awarded annually to the senior Leadership Studies minor who has best exemplified the study of leadership as an academic discipline through excellence in related coursework, research and/or other scholarly contributions.

Leadership Studies Award Recipient: Lucy Hettinger 鈥�26

Hilaire Pickett 鈥�08 Leadership Grant

The Hilaire Pickett 鈥�08 Leadership Grant is an endowed scholarship presented to students participating in the Leadership Education and Development at Elon. Awards are granted to support students in their junior or senior years in pursuing leadership internships or legacy efforts. The students must demonstrate a significant commitment to their organizations and academics and actively contribute to the Elon community.

Hilaire Pickett 鈥�08 Leadership Grant Recipient: Cayce Becker 鈥�27

The PERCS Outstanding Ethnography Award

The PERCS Outstanding Ethnography Award recognizes the student who has conducted the most outstanding ethnographic research project at 福利亚洲国产精品, as judged by the quality of both the process and the product. The award is given by the Program for Ethnographic Research and Community Studies.

The PERCS Outstanding Ethnography Award Recipient: Jesse McCleary 鈥�26

Katharine duPont Weymouth Scholarship

Given in honor of alumnus Frank Lyon 鈥�71, the Katharine duPont Weymoutn Scholarship is awarded to an outstanding student in the social sciences who has maintained an academic record of excellence and who is engaged in work that asks an important social science question or engages important social science methodology.

Katharine duPont Weymouth Scholarship Recipient: Tajallah Amirkil 鈥�27

W.L. Monroe Christian Education and Personality Award

Recipients of the W.L. Monroe Christian Education and Personality Award demonstrate citizenship and a strong desire to help others improve themselves. A trust created by the late W.L. Monroe Sr., who attended Elon in 1917, provides cash awards to the recipients.

W.L. Monroe Christian Education and Personality Award Recipients:聽Madeline Mitchener 鈥�26 and Caden Minnich 鈥�26

Truitt Center Reconciliation Award

The Truitt Center Reconciliation Award is presented to a student who best exemplifies the vision of Douglas G. Noiles and Edna Truitt Noiles 鈥�44, who endowed the program in the Vera Richardson Truitt Center for Religious and Spiritual Life, 鈥渢o enable Elon students to learn about their own and other faiths and to live lives of reconciliation.鈥�

Truitt Center Reconciliation Award Recipients: Benjamin Stern 鈥�26 and Gavin Michaud 鈥�26

Ella Brunk Smith Award

In honor of Ella Brunk Smith, wife of former Elon President L.E. Smith, the Ella Brunk Smith Award is presented to a female student in the senior class who has made significant contributions to the religious and moral life on campus.

Ella Brunk Smith Award Recipients: Lauren Bedell 鈥�26 and Abby Krause 鈥�26

Martha Smith Award for Women鈥檚, Gender and Sexualities Studies

The Martha Smith Award for Women鈥檚, Gender and Sexualities Studies award is given in honor of the founding mothers of the women鈥檚 and gender studies program at 福利亚洲国产精品, to recognize the achievements 鈥� both academic and activist in nature 鈥� of a graduating senior women鈥檚, gender and sexualities studies minor.

Martha Smith Award for Women鈥檚, Gender and Sexualities Studies Recipient: Athena Vizuete 鈥�26

Iris Holt McEwen Community Service Award

The Iris Holt McEwen Community Service Award is presented to a student whose service to Elon and the larger community exemplifies the generosity of spirit and dedication to Iris Holt McEwen’s philanthropy.

Iris Holt McEwen Community Service Award Recipient: Anna Gilbert 鈥�27

Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award

The Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award is presented to graduating seniors, alumni and community members of selected colleges and universities in the Southern United States for excellence of character and service to humanity.鈥� At Elon, two graduating seniors and one faculty or staff member are recognized annually for their honesty, morality, ethics, integrity, responsibility, determination, courage and compassion.

Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award Recipients: Anya Brati膰 鈥�26, Noah Biggers 鈥�26, and Jana Lynn Patterson, associate vice president for Student Life and dean of student health and well-being

John W. Barney Memorial Award

John W. Barney Memorial Award recognizes the senior(s) with the highest cumulative 颅GPA. Colleagues, former students, and friends of the late John W. Barney established this award in his honor. Barney graduated from Elon in 1910 and was a faculty member for over three decades.

John W. Barney Memorial Award Recipient: Anya Brati膰 鈥�26

Remarks were delivered by Anya Brati膰 鈥�26, 2025鈥�26 Student Government Association president, President Emeritus Leo M. Lambert and Whitney Gregory, dean of students, who closed the ceremony. The event also highlighted the impact of Elon student leaders in the greater Burlington and Alamance communities, noting that 20,403 hours of service were logged through Phoenix Serve, each of which was connected to at least one student organization.

A new addition this year was the implementation of the Standards of Excellence program by Student Involvement, encouraging chapters to reflect on their growth and development. From this program, top-performing fraternity and sorority community chapters were selected by council, recognizing those that demonstrated strong performance and a commitment to leadership and continuous improvement.

The following students, organizations and chapters were recognized for their achievements:

Faculty & Staff Awards

Barbara H. Carlton Outstanding Advisor of the Year

Named in honor of Barbara H. Carlton, former SGA advisor and Director of Student Activities, the Barbara H. Carlton Outstanding Advisor of the Year award recognizes an advisor鈥檚 dedication, hard work and time invested in supporting their student organization.

Barbara H. Carlton Outstanding Advisor of the Year Recipient:聽Abdul Malik Harrison 鈥�21, advisor of the Black Student Union

G. Smith Jackson Award for Outstanding Student Mentorship

The G. Smith Jackson Award recognizes an undergraduate student who exemplifies excellence in peer mentoring, serving as both a supportive friend and a role model who encourages fellow students in their academic and personal growth.

G. Smith Jackson Award for Outstanding Student Mentorship Recipient:聽Daniel Pupo 鈥�26, SPARKS Peer Health Education.

Gerald Francis Award for Outstanding Faculty Member of the Year

Presented to a faculty member who embodies excellence in teaching and mentoring, the Gearld Francis Outstanding Faculty Member of the Year award honors those who elevate the student experience through dynamic instruction, intentional mentorship and a profound impact on student learning and development.

Gerald Francis Award for Outstanding Faculty Member of the Year Recipient: Rozana Carducci, advisor to Alpha Phi Omega Service Fraternity and associate professor of education and graduate director of the Master of Higher Education

Brian O鈥橲hea Outstanding Service to Students Award

Named in honor of Brian Charles O鈥橲hea, a former staff member known for serving the student body beyond his formal responsibilities, this award recognizes a staff member who consistently exceeds expectations in their role.

Brian O鈥橲hea Outstanding Service to Students Award Recipient: Andrew Moffa, assistant director of the Kernodle Center for Civic Life

Student Organization Awards

Outstanding New Student Organization

The Outstanding New Student Organization Award recognizes the dedication and hard work required to launch and grow a new organization, honoring the commitment and creativity needed to make a meaningful impact on campus. Eligible organizations must have been recognized by 福利亚洲国产精品 within the past two years, but no less than three months ago.

Outstanding New Student Organization Recipient: The Student Nurses Association

Dr. Jana Lynn Patterson Student Organization Newcomer of the Year Award for FSC Members

The Dr. Jana Lynn Patterson Student Organization Newcomer of the Year Award for FSC Members honors new members of the Fraternity and Sorority Community who demonstrate strong commitment to their organizations and show potential for meaningful impact.

Dr. Jana Lynn Patterson Student Organization Newcomer of the Year Award for FSC Members Recipient: Isis Ruiz-Nunez 鈥�26, Chi Upsilon Sigma National Latin Sorority Inc.

Dr. Jana Lynn Patterson Student Organization Newcomer of the Year for Non-FSC members

The Dr. Jana Lynn Patterson Student Organization Newcomer of the Year Award for Non-FSC Members recognizes new members who demonstrate outstanding commitment and show strong potential to make a positive impact within their organizations.

Dr. Jana Lynn Patterson Student Organization Newcomer of the Year for Non-FSC Members Recipient: Sam Deutsch 鈥�29, College Republicans

Reverend Richard McBride Campus/Greater Community Involvement Award

The Reverend Richard McBride Campus and Greater Community Involvement Award recognizes a non-service-based organization that has significantly contributed to the general welfare of the campus and the greater community through service, positively impacting students, faculty, staff and the broader Elon community.

Reverend Richard McBride Campus/Greater Community Involvement Award Recipient: Parent’s Night Out

Student Organization of the Year (more than 30 members)

The Student Organization of the Year Award (more than 30 members) recognizes a student organization that has demonstrated excellence throughout the academic year.

Student Organization of the Year (more than 30 members) Recipient: Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA)

Student Organization of the Year (less than 30 members)

The Student Organization of the Year Award (less than 30 members) recognizes a student organization that has demonstrated excellence throughout the academic year.

Student Organization of the Year (less than 30 members) Recipient: The International Relations Club

Student Organization Committee of the Year

The Student Organization Committee of the Year Award recognizes a committee of four to ten members that has excelled in enhancing their organization by setting or advancing a clear vision and working diligently to achieve it.

Student Organization Committee of the Year Recipient: Alpha Omicron Pi鈥檚 2026 executive board

Outstanding Program or Event Award for FSC Members

The Outstanding Program or Event Award for FSC Members recognizes a student-led event or program that enhanced the university community through creative approaches, engaged diverse student audiences and demonstrated effective planning and execution.

Outstanding Program or Event Award for FSC Members Recipient: Yoga on the Yard: Puppy Edition hosted by Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.

Outstanding Program or Event Award for Non-FSC Members

The Outstanding Program or Event Award for Non-FSC Members recognizes a student-led event or program that enhanced the university community through creative approaches, engaged diverse student audiences and demonstrated effective planning and execution.

Outstanding Program or Event Award for Non-FSC Members Recipient: African Night hosted by the African Diaspora of Elon

Outstanding Collaboration Award for FSC Members

The Outstanding Collaboration Award for FSC Members recognizes a collaborative effort between organizations that positively impacted students on campus through demonstrated teamwork and partnership.

Outstanding Collaboration Award for FSC Members Recipient: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. for their Pretty lOvE Week

Outstanding Collaboration Award for Non-FSC members

The Outstanding Collaboration Award for Non-FSC Members recognizes a collaborative effort between student organizations that positively impacted students on campus through demonstrated teamwork and partnership.

Outstanding Collaboration Award for Non-FSC Members Recipient: Dumplings Across Cultures by the Chinese Club, Italian Club and the Latinx-Hispanic Union

Top Performing Fraternity and Sorority Community Chapters

This year, Student Involvement launched the Standards of Excellence program, encouraging chapters to engage in intentional reflection and growth across key areas, including intellectual development, membership development, chapter operations, responsibility, health and safety and, when applicable, housing operations.

Each chapter concluded the year by presenting its progress and accomplishments to a panel of faculty and staff from across the institution. The chapters recognized today represent the highest level of achievement among all 31 chapters, exemplifying excellence, accountability and leadership within their respective councils.

• Interfraternity Council: Beta Theta Pi.
• Multicultural Greek Council: Chi Upsilon Sigma National Latin Sorority Inc.
• Panhellenic Association: Alpha Chi Omega
• National Pan-Hellenic Council: Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc

Individual Student Leader Awards

Janice R. Ratliff Student Organization聽 Member of the Year

The Janice R. Ratliff Student Organization Member of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding individual who contributes significant time and energy to their organization in a role not defined by a formal leadership position. The recipient exemplifies hard work, determination and a commitment that plays a vital role in their organization鈥檚 success.

Janice R. Ratliff Student Organization Member of the Year Recipient: Diana Jimenez-Carreno 鈥�26, Chi Upsilon Sigma National Latin Sorority Inc.

Student Organization Officer of the Year

The Student Organization Officer of the Year Award recognizes an outstanding individual who dedicates their time and energy to their organization and leads with commitment, character and integrity, playing a vital role in guiding the organization through both challenges and successes.

Student Organization Officer of the Year Recipient: Megan Logue 鈥�26, Alpha Omicron Pi

Dr. J. Earl Danieley Leadership Award

Named after one of 福利亚洲国产精品鈥檚 most distinguished leaders, the Dr. J. Earl Danieley Leadership Award recognizes exemplary student leaders who may not hold formal titles such as officer or president, but demonstrate a deep commitment to their organizations. These students dedicate their time and play a vital role in helping their organizations grow and develop. This award recognizes two students annually, including one from the Fraternity and Sorority Community and one from a non-Fraternity and Sorority organization.

• Dr. J. Earl Danieley Leadership Award FSC Member Recipient: Bailey Skinner 鈥�26, Alpha Chi Omega
• Dr. J. Earl Danieley Leadership Award Non-FSC Member Recipient: Salome Onikolase 鈥�26, African Diaspora of Elon

Margie Watkins National Pan-Hellenic Council Member of the Year

Named after a former staff member who supported the Fraternity and Sorority Community, the Margie Watkins National Pan-Hellenic Council Member of the Year Award recognizes leaders in the NPHC community who have made significant contributions to Elon and the broader Fraternity and Sorority Community.

Margie Watkins National Pan-Hellenic Council Member of the Year Recipient: Haleigh Cephus 鈥�26, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Elizabeth Fleurean Panhellenic Association Member of the Year

Named after a former student and member of Phi Mu, the Elizabeth Fleurean Panhellenic Association Member of the Year Award is presented to a student who exemplifies the values of the Fraternity and Sorority Community and the Panhellenic Association.

Elizabeth Fleurean Panhellenic Association Member of the Year Recipient: Elyse Schwartz 鈥�27, Alpha Omicron Pi

Interfraternity Council Member of the Year

Recipient: Will Coughenour 鈥�26, Sigma Pi

Multicultural Greek Council Member of the Year

Recipient: Reagan Wible 鈥�26, Kappa Phi Lambda Sorority Inc.