2024 Student Activities & Leadership Awards | Chancellor's Awards at Carolina

THE EARL SLOCUM BAND AWARD

Recipient: Andrew Kuntz

This award honoring Earl Slocum, Director of Bands from 1935 to 1956, is given annually to the senior member of University Bands who has demonstrated meritorious achievement with regard to musicianship, leadership, and academic excellence, and who also has made a significant contribution to the growth and success of the University Band program.

“Andrew has been very involved in the UNC Bands program during his time at Carolina. He is a four-year member of the Marching Tar Heels, Pep Bands, Basketball Bands, Wind Ensemble, and has played in other ensembles as well. He is a fantastic musician and a wonderful student.”

THE CLASS OF ’56 GEORGE LIVAS AWARD

Recipient: Miller Williamson

This award was established by friends of George Livas to recognize the most outstanding senior in the School of Nursing. The recipient, chosen by the faculty of the School, is the member of the senior class who best demonstrates scholarship, leadership, and nursing excellence.

“Miller embodies the core values of a Carolina Nurse through leadership, scholarship, and nursing excellence, evident in his roles as lab manager and volunteer at SHAC and Nursing Assistant at the Emergency Department at Rex. His dedication to combating sepsis includes involvement in research and scholarship, spreading awareness during World Sepsis Day, and advocating for prompt treatment and interventions.”

THE EDWARD McGOWAN HEDGPETH AWARD

Recipient: Mason Murray

Established in 1964, this award is given by the Beta Chapter of Alpha Epsilon Delta, International Premedical Honor Society. It is named for a charter member and advisor of Beta Chapter, a physician who served for thirty years as director of the Student Health Service and for fifteen years as chairman of the admissions committee of the Medical School. The award is given annually to two undergraduate members of Alpha Epsilon Delta who are voted most outstanding in service to the campus and community through the society.

“Mason’s exceptional dedication to leadership and service within the UNC campus and community through her roles in Alpha Epsilon Delta have earned her this award. As Service Chair and President, she advocates tirelessly for diverse, accessible service opportunities, solidifying her role as a pillar of AED and demonstrating unwavering support to those around her.”

THE EDWARD McGOWAN HEDGPETH AWARD

Recipient: Hari Kiran Pinapaka

“Hari is recognized for his outstanding commitment and service to Alpha Epsilon Delta and the broader UNC community. His dedication to serving others along with his cheerful spirit, render him an invaluable asset to many organizations, including Carolina Cupboard and UNC Hearts for the Homeless.”

THE INTERFRATERNITY COUNCIL MAN OF THE YEAR AWARD

Recipient: Luke Louis

Established by the Interfraternity Council, this award is presented annually to an undergraduate member who has made the most significant contributions in the areas of leadership, scholarship, and service to their chapter, council, and The Carolina/Chapel Hill community.

“Luke was selected for this award due to his exemplary leadership qualities, fearlessly standing up for his beliefs, and prioritizing diplomatic solutions. Luke’s dedication extends beyond the Council, as he spearheaded new philanthropy events and fostered improved relations with campus offices.”

PANHELLENIC COUNCIL WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD

Recipient: Cameron Somerville

Established by the Panhellenic Council, this award is presented annually to an undergraduate member who has made the most significant contributions in the areas of leadership, scholarship, and service to their chapter, council and the Carolina/Chapel Hill community.

“Cameron, a hard working leader and role model, initiated positive changes within the Panhellenic community and provided encouragement and support to members. She has persistently advocated for important initiatives and causes raised by Panhellenic members.”

NATIONAL PAN-HELLENIC COUNCIL AWARD

Recipient: Hala Ballard

Established by the National Pan-Hellenic Council, this award is presented annually to an undergraduate member who has made the most significant contributions in the areas of leadership, scholarship, and service to their chapter, council and the Carolina/Chapel Hill community.

“Hala exemplifies resilience and dedication as she seamlessly took over leadership of the NPHC in the midst of the year, overcoming adversity with grace and determination. Despite the unexpected challenges, Hala approached her role with unwavering commitment, diligently working to uphold the organization’s values and objectives.”

MULTICULTURAL GREEK COUNCIL AWARD

Recipient: Asucena Vargas

Established by the Panhellenic Council, the National Pan-Hellenic Council, the Interfraternity Council, and the Multicultural Greek Council Award, these awards are presented annually to undergraduates who have made the most significant contributions in the areas of leadership, scholarship, service to their individual chapters, and Greek and University Communities.

“Asucena served as the president of the Multicultural Greek Council this year and it’s through her leadership that the council had a successful year of unity and growth. She is a member of Latinas Promoviendo Comunidad/Lambda Pi Chi Sorority, Inc. where she also served as treasurer.”

THE MARTY POMERANTZ SPORT CLUBS COUNCIL ACHIEVEMENT

Recipient: Ryann Breslin

Established in 1979, this award is named in honor of Marty Pomerantz, who served as the Director of Campus Recreation for 22 years. It is given annually to the undergraduate who demonstrates leadership, commitment, and makes the greatest positive contribution to the strength and vitality of the sport clubs program.

“As President of the Golf Club, Ryann’s genuine care and commitment have fostered a welcoming environment and trust among members, earning her praise for her motivating leadership and exceptional organization skills. Her dedication is contagious, fostering a supportive community within the club and contributing positively to the Sport Clubs program as a whole.”

THE J. MARYON SAUNDERS AWARD

Recipient: Andrew Spratley

The J. Maryon Saunders Award was established by the UNC General Alumni Association (GAA), this award is presented to the member of the graduating class who, as an undergraduate student, has contributed most to the preservation and enhancement of loyalty and goodwill between The University of North Carolina and its students, alumni and friends. This award is in honor of J. Maryon “Spike” Saunders (class of 1925) who led the GAA for 43 years.

“Andrew consistently upholds his commitment to serve UNC in big and small ways. In Feb 2021, Andrew joined Order of the Bell Tower and now serves as its president. He also held roles as a 2024 Senior Class Marshal and worked with Residence Life, Student Government and even the Admissions Office where he was an ambassador and training leader.”

THE ROGER A. DAVIS MEMORIAL AWARD

Recipient: Karl Suszynsky

This award, established in 1966, is given in memory of Roger A. Davis who, as a student, was active in the formation of the residence colleges. It is given by the Residence Hall Association to the undergraduate judged to have given outstanding service to the University, especially through residence hall leadership. The recipient will receive a framed certificate and a monetary award.

“Karl was chosen for this award due to his ongoing commitment to the residential student life experience. Starting as Craige Community Governor over two years ago, now as NRHH president, while also previously holding almost every possible position in between, Karl has captured what it means to serve the residence hall community.”

THE WILLIE P. MANGUM MEDAL IN ORATORY

Recipient: Valerie Argentina Calvo

This oldest student award was established in 1877 in memory of Willie Person Mangum, Class of 1815, who had a distinguished career in politics including three terms in the U.S. Senate and a leading role in the Whig Party. It is continued by the family of Mangum Turner, Class of 1900. A gold medal is awarded to the member of the senior class who, in the opinion of a group of judges, gives the best oration at an annual contest. The award is administered by the Dialectic and Philanthropic Societies.

“Valerie won this award for the excellent speech she gave in competition where she combined knowledge from both her majors, English and Physics, in an interesting and unique way. An experienced speaker, Valerie’s captivating speech spoke on the quote “He understood that men were forever strangers to one another, that no one ever comes to really know any one” from Thomas Wolfe’s Look Homeward, Angel.”

THE ERNEST H. ABERNETHY PRIZE IN STUDENT PUBLICATION WORK

Recipient: Emmy Martin

Ernest H. Abernethy, Class of 1922, established this award in 1941. A plaque and monetary award are presented annually to the undergraduate judged by a special committee to have done the most distinctive work during the current year in the field of student publications.

“As editor-in-chief of The Daily Tar Heel, Emmy Martin’s print cover after the August 28, 2023 UNC-Chapel Hill shooting garnered national attention, leading to invitations to the White House and speaking engagements at Columbia and a College Media Association conference. Emmy’s professionalism, poise, and integrity have transformed The Daily Tar Heel into a more impactful newspaper, demonstrating her exceptional skill and maturity as a student journalist.”

THE JIM TATUM MEMORIAL AWARD

Recipient: Alyssa Ustby

This award was established in 1959 in honor of James M. Tatum, head football coach in 1942 and 1956 through 1958. It is presented under the sponsorship of The University of North Carolina Athletic Association to the varsity intercollegiate athlete who has performed with distinction in their sport and who has contributed to the University community through constructive participation in co-curricular activities.

“Alyssa, a Media and Journalism major with a minor in Business Administration, stands out both academically and athletically, recognized as the women’s basketball team captain for the 2023-24 season and named to prestigious awards such as the Cheryl Miller Award Top 10 list and the All-ACC Academic Team. Her achievements extend beyond athletics, as she made the Dean’s List in Fall 2022 and contributes significantly through service and leadership in the Carolina community.”

THE ALGERNON SYDNEY SULLIVAN AWARD

Recipient: Malak Dridi

Established in 1928, this award is bestowed annually upon one man and one woman of the senior class who has best demonstrated unselfish interest in human welfare. The emphasis of the award is on humanitarian contributions.

“Malak feels an obligation to be a catalyst for visible change, and she has accomplished this through her work with multiple organizations both on and off campus. There is nothing that can deter Malak when it comes to social justice and advocacy. Her work, dedication, and personality make her one of the most sincere agents of change on UNC’s campus, as well as nationally.”

THE ALGERNON SYDNEY SULLIVAN AWARD

Recipient: Alisha Rehman

“Alisha is dedicated to effecting positive change through service. Shaped by her diverse experiences, she is a socially conscious and compassionate leader, equipped to confront challenges in the field of science and public healthcare. Through her involvement with various organizations and commitment to medical volunteering, Alisha demonstrates a profound capacity for empathy and care, underscoring her unwavering commitment to serving others.”

THE CORNELIUS O. CATHEY AWARD

Recipient: Matthew Tweden

This award was established in 1987 in memory of Cornelius O. Cathey, Professor of History from 1947 to 1974 and Dean of Student Affairs from 1963 to 1972. It is given annually to the student who has made the greatest contribution to the quality of campus life through sustained, constructive participation in established student programs, or through creative, persistent effort in development of new student programs.

“Matthew is focused on cultivating a positive experience for current students, while also laying the groundwork for a bright future for the student leaders of tomorrow. Matthew showcased his dedication through his work on the Joint Governance Council, Undergraduate Executive Branch, Provost’s Advisory Council, and other involvements that outlined his care and thought for embracing working within an institutional system.”

THE ROBERT WHITE LINKER AWARD

Recipient: Karl Suszynsky

This award was established in 1960 in honor of Professor Robert White Linker, who helped to organize the Society of Janus Chapter of the National Residence Hall Honorary. It is given annually by the Society to the most outstanding undergraduate residence hall officer. This award is based on leadership criteria of initiative, creativity and effectiveness, and on lasting contributions to residence hall living.

“Instrumental in the expansion of the National Residence Hall Honorary, Karl has exemplified leadership, grace, and poise throughout his tenure. His willingness to lend expertise to Carolina Housing initiatives, including the Residence Hall Association, underscores Karl’s invaluable contributions to fostering a vibrant and inclusive community within our residential community.”

THE FEREBEE TAYLOR AWARD

Recipient: Matthew Koenigshofer

Inaugurated by the Class of 1982 as its gift to the University, this award recognizes the principle of honor as one of the University’s most hallowed ideals. It is given in honor of Ferebee Taylor, Chancellor of the University, 1972-1980, under whose leadership and commitment the judicial reform movement and the revitalization of the Honor Code were brought to fruition. The award is given annually to the member of the senior class who has made the greatest contribution to the continued vitality and strength of the Honor Code in the community.

“Matthew is the student Attorney General within the Honor System. His leadership has progressed the Honor System to support student development, education, and growth in a timely and impartial manner. Through his role, he has upheld the values and the integrity of the Honor Code.”

THE BOKA W. HADZIJA AWARD FOR DISTINGUISHED UNIVERSITY SERVICE

Recipient: Janay Franklin

Professor Boka Hadzija exemplified excellence in scholarship, leadership and service to Carolina, earning the 2005 C. Knox Massey Distinguished Award and no fewer than 39 awards for teaching excellence from the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy and the University. Dr. Hadzija, who passed away unexpectedly in 2013, is remembered for her strong mentorship, her generous support of students and her outstanding leadership. In her memory, this award recognizes the graduate or professional student who has been judged most outstanding in character, scholarship and leadership.

“Janay has demonstrated remarkable service to the University and community, including founding the Maximizing Exposure to Biomedical Research (MEBR) program for underrepresented students. Her outstanding character is evident through participation in the Chancellor’s student advisory committee and as a Graduate and Professional Student Government senator, alongside receiving numerous research and academic awards.”

THE BOKA W. HADZIJA AWARD FOR DISTINGUISHED UNIVERSITY SERVICE

Recipient: Kendall Hatch Winter

“Kendall is pursuing a PhD in musicology and actively engages in advocacy projects for both the music department and the university at large through her involvement in Graduate and Professional Student Government.”

THE ALBERT AND GLADYS HALL COATES AWARD

Recipient: Andrew Gary

This award recognizes the distinguished history of Student Government in this University, long championed by Albert and Gladys Hall Coates. It honors the Coates for their 70 years of involvement with and contributions to the University and to Student Government. Established in 1987, the award is given annually to the member of Student Congress whose service through the Student Congress is judged most outstanding on criteria of statesmanship, commitment and constructive involvement in issues affecting the quality of the University community.

“Andrew has made exceptional contributions to student self-governance at UNC-Chapel Hill, notably through his extensive revision of key student governance documents and leadership in advocating for student voices in local politics. His commitment to police reform, along with his roles in various advisory councils and governing bodies, has significantly enhanced transparency, efficacy, and professionalism within the Undergraduate Senate.”

THE E. EUGENE JACKSON AWARD

Recipient: Mary Miller

This award was established by the Class of 1989 in honor of E. Eugene Jackson, whose contributions to the University were a model of selfless service. It is given annually to the member of the graduating class whose leadership and selfless dedication have strengthened class pride and University loyalty, enriched the lives of seniors, and made a significant contribution to the University.

“Mary’s commitment to serving her community shines through her diverse roles within the Residence Hall Association, notably as president, where she prioritized equity practices. Her impactful Menstrual Product Initiative, now implemented across all residential communities, exemplifies this dedication.”

THE IRENE F. LEE AWARD

Recipient: Makayla A. Key

Irene F. Lee, who served as hostess and counselor in Cornelia Phillips Spencer Hall from 1925 to 1948, established this award in 1955. The award is presented annually to the woman of the senior class who is judged most outstanding in leadership, character and scholarship.

“Makayla has made her mark as an outstanding model of service, character, and leadership throughout her four years on campus. As president of the Theta Pi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and a Morehead-Cain Scholar, she has shown continuously that she is committed to improving herself and finding ways to improve the community, as well.”

THE JOHN JOHNSTON PARKER, JR. MEDAL FOR UNIQUE LEADERSHIP IN STUDENT GOVERNMENT

Recipient: Andrew Gary

This award was established in 1941 by Judge and Mrs. John J. Parker in memory of their son, John Johnston Parker, Jr., Class of 1937, who served with distinction as president of the then Student Council. A medal is awarded annually to that member of the senior class who has demonstrated the highest qualities of leadership in perpetuating the spirit and honor of student self-government.

“It would be difficult to find a student who has contributed more to student government or worked more tirelessly on behalf of students during their time at Carolina than Andrew. He has been an exceptional force within student government, constantly advocating for the safety of the student body behind the scenes and broadening the Undergraduate Student Government Senate’s reach to the student body.”

THE FRANK PORTER GRAHAM AWARD

Recipient: Colby Taylor

This award, established in 1963, is presented to the graduating senior who has made the most outstanding contribution to a realization of the human ideals of equality, dignity and community. The award is given in memory of Dr. Frank Porter Graham, past president of the Campus Y and past president of this University. Dr. Graham’s devotion to the improvement of the quality of human life continues, through generations, to inspire striving for the ideals here recognized.

“Colby exemplifies the essence of the human ideals of equality, dignity, and community through his tireless advocacy for indigenous populations, amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation. His unwavering advocacy for social justice inspires those around him, extending far beyond his graduating class.”

THE EDWARD KIDDER GRAHAM AWARD

Recipient: Manaal Iqbal

Named for Edward Kidder Graham (president of the University of North Carolina, 1914-1918), this award honors the graduating senior who has made the most outstanding contribution to the University through his or her work as a member of an officially recognized student organization. The recipient will have demonstrated consistent leadership, dedication, and innovation within the organization, contributed to the organization’s strength, vitality, and longevity, and assisted the organization in supporting the overall mission of the University.

“As president of the Muslim Students Association, Manaal has constantly advocated for the interaction of faith and community. While supporting the overall mission of the organization, she has helped to educate the campus community about the concerns and needs of Muslim students. Her dedication has contributed to the organization’s strength, vitality, and longevity.”

THE BRENDA W. KIRBY AWARD

Recipient: Anna Coley

Brenda W. Kirby served as Secretary of the University from 1980 to 2012. In that role, Ms. Kirby was special assistant to six Chancellors, constantly bridging communication between students and the Chancellor, as well as other parts of the University. Acknowledging her unique gift of creating invaluable bonds of communication, this award, established in 2012, recognizes annually the student who has most effectively worked to establish a community of cooperation and service between students and constituents of the larger University that might include administrators, faculty, staff, students, trustees, and alumni

“Anna has devoted her college journey to supporting the campus community and fostering education through her endeavors in leadership, sustainability, and advocacy. Her significant contributions to Phi Sigma Pi National Gender Inclusive Honor Fraternity and other involvements across campus have been characterized by her commitment to community building and philanthropy, leaving a profound impact on those around her.”

THE KEITH SHAWN SMITH AWARD FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND MENTORSHIP

Recipient: Alex Haven

The Department of Housing and Residential Education created this award in 2007 in remembrance of Keith Shawn Smith, who served as a Resident Advisor in Stacy Hall in the Old Campus Lower Quad Community. The award is granted to a Resident Advisor or Resident Advisor Mentor who has created a strong community, meaningful mentoring relationships, and campus connections. The recipient must have made a positive impact on the lives of the residents served, developing their community to an exemplary level and providing significant mentorship to the members of the community.

“Alex, the current RA for the Pride Place Residential Learning Program, received multiple nominations from community residents for this award, with praise centered around their dedication to fostering inclusivity and validation of individuals’ experiences within Pride Place. Their commitment to residents’ well-being and sense of belonging has been transformative, earning them recognition and gratitude from the community.”

WILLIAM S. CARLTON INTRAMURAL SPORTS EMPLOYEE AWARD

Recipient: Parker Jones

The William S. Carlton Intramural Sports Employee Award recognizes a Sport Programs student employee at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill who officiates Intramural Sports and consistently exceeds expectations. This individual goes above and beyond their duties and responsibilities to provide a great service to participants and assist other staff members. The recipient of this award contributes significantly to the overall success and strength of UNC’s Campus Recreation Sport Programs through their leadership and dedication to Intramural Sports.

“Parker is an outstanding leader and exemplar of dedication within Sport Programs, consistently delivering excellent customer service and fostering a positive atmosphere.. Her reliability, willingness to assist others, and commitment to enhancing experiences for participants and peers reflect her embodiment of the mission of Sport Programs and Campus Rec.”

James O. Cansler Service Award

Recipient: Juliette Ruby Palacios Perez

James Cansler served UNC students for 37 years, first as a Baptist Chaplain, and later as Dean of Men and Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs. He was dedicated to helping students strengthen their faith and enlarge their vision of service concurrent with their educational pursuits. This award is presented annually in his memory to a student whose faith has inspired outstanding service to the needs of humanity.

“Faith is a driving factor that inspires Juliette to take action for positive change within both her academic and social spheres. Her willingness to listen and to connect with diverse perspectives has helped to create an inclusive environment for all on campus. Her consistent ability to provide perspective and foster a supportive community underscores her character and reflects her unwavering dedication to others.”