In a recent ceremony that underscored academic and personal excellence, Union University recognized students, faculty, and staff with more than 80 awards at its annual Awards Day chapel service. David Thomas, a history professor, was honored with the Carla D. Sanderson Faculty of the Year Award for his contributions to the university's academic community. In a nod to exemplary service, John Carbonell, associate vice president for human resources, received the Gary L. Carter Staff of the Year Award, highlighting the commitment of Union University's staff to its mission and values.
The accolades were not limited strictly to academic achievement, as individuals across a broad spectrum of disciplines were recognized for their contributions. Jason Crawford, standing out as an English professor, was recognized with the R. Keith Absher Faculty Researcher of the Year Award for his "significant and sustained scholarly contributions," as reported by Union University's news release. Likewise, awards were granted to students for academic excellence across various majors, with recipients including Alison Keener-Eskola for Art and Christian Michael Schlehuber for Cell and Molecular Biology, to name a few.
Union University's celebration goes beyond traditional academic disciplines, extending acknowledgment to those who have to seamlessly integrate their studies with extracurricular achievements. Mary Scott Tritt and Gray Campbell received the John C. Moore Award for Excellence in Academics and Athletics, spotlighting the balance of intellectual and physical prowess. The union's annual event also recognized leadership and community service with awards such as the Wilberforce Award for Civic Engagement and the Barnabas Leadership Award, which were presented to Jack Brady and the duo of Sarah Skinner and Gavin Kopko, respectively.
The event not only honored those near the end of their academic journeys but also uplifted those at the beginning, such as Jake Leckrone, who received the Bettye and Kermit Whiteaker Freshman Chemistry Award. These awards aim to foster and encourage a trajectory of excellence and continued passion for their field of study, as evidenced by their early achievements. The Greek Scholarship Cups, celebrated for fostering academic excellence amongst social fraternities, went to the men of Alpha Tau Omega and the women of Chi Omega, marking the latter's 78th consecutive win, proudly highlighted by Union University.
It is clear that Union University’s tradition of celebrating excellence is integral to its community, offering a moment to collectively appreciate the individual and group accomplishments that contribute to the fabric of the university. From professors like Phil Davignon, who earned the Howard Newell Innovative Teaching Award for creativity in teaching, to undergraduate students like Natalie McVay, recognized for research excellence, Union University's Awards Day serves as a testament to the hard work and dedication of its members.
