2025 Student Activities & Leadership Awards | Chancellor's Awards at Carolina

The Albert and Gladys Hall Coates Award

Recipient: Matthew Tweden

Carolina Alumni presents this award 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 General Alumni Association for 43 years.

“As Undergraduate Senate Speaker and Joint Governance Council Chair, Matthew dedicated his time at Carolina to leading major policy initiatives within student government and representing the undergraduate student body to university leadership. His work elevated student government’s working relationship with institutional partners and delivered tangible results, strengthening student organizations and improving the accessibility of information relevant to student experience and academic affairs.”

The Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award

Recipient: Salma Hakam

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.

“Salma Hakam is dedicated to the mission of creating a more equitable future for others. Through her work, which includes co-founding the organization Middle Eastern Refugee Aid, she has shown remarkable leadership in outreach efforts supporting underrepresented communities.”

The Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award

Recipient: Harini Somanchi

“Harini is a dedicated leader and advocate committed to student health, safety, and equity. Her passion for wellness is evident in everything she does. From her experience in the Executive Branch of Undergraduate Student Government to her involvement in women’s healthcare, she empowers those around her through mentorship, advocacy, and lasting change.”

The Boka Hadzija Award

Recipient: Raenne Geffert

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. A $1,000 award is presented annually to the recipient.

“Raeanne was chosen for the Boka W. Hadzija Award for Distinguished University Service due to their outstanding achievements, research accomplishments, and service. She has served as the Volunteer Recruitment and Program Coordinator Lead in the UNC WinSprire program since August 2022. This program provides mentorship and shares experiences with high school students to promote diversity and inclusion in STEM.”

The Brenda W. Kirby Award

Recipient: Michael Baird

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.

“Michael Baird is an engaged leader whose voluntary efforts reflect his deep commitment to fostering a culture of collaboration and service. Michael was nominated for his work with the Graduate Student Experience and for his service on a working group charting the future of the Royster Society of Fellows. His professionalism, preparation, and commitment make him an essential voice in shaping the future of graduate education at Carolina.”

The Class of ’56 George R. Livas Award

Recipient: Apollos Star Lee

The George Livas Outstanding Nursing Student Award is presented to a senior nursing student selected by faculty in the School of Nursing who best exemplifies scholarship, leadership, and nursing excellence.

“Apollos Lee is a truly exceptional individual who embodies the essence of the George Livas Award for Outstanding Senior in the School of Nursing. Apollos stands out for his unwavering dedication to scholarship, leadership, and nursing excellence. Through his clinical skills, emotional intelligence, and thoughtful approach to patient care, he has established himself as a remarkable student and a compassionate future nurse. His honors project, the Cardiac Unit Audiovisual Educational Resource, highlights his drive to innovate and improve patient and family experiences in the hospital setting. This multimodal resource, developed with the support of the cardiothoracic unit, showcases Apollos’ ability to identify gaps in care and address them with professionalism, empathy, and creativity. His attention to detail and respect for diverse perspectives are evident in his work, as is his commitment to improving quality of care and empowering patients and families. As a leader, Apollos elevates those around him. He is an active participant in classroom discussions, offering thoughtful insights that spark meaningful conversations. During clinical rotations, his genuine connection with patients—whether by playing cards, sharing stories, or offering empathy—demonstrates his remarkable ability to balance professionalism with warmth and understanding. Apollos’ advisors and instructors consistently praise his maturity, work ethic, and interpersonal skills. His ability to foster collaboration, encourage diverse perspectives, and maintain a focus on patient safety highlights his potential as a future leader in nursing. He is not only an exemplary student but also a kind, diligent, and fun individual who inspires those around him. Apollos Lee is a deserving recipient of the George Livas Award, and his trajectory as a nurse and leader is bound to make a lasting impact on the nursing profession and the lives of those he serves.”

The Cornelius O. Cathey Award

Recipient: Cherise Glodowski

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.

“Cherise received her PhD in Pathobiology and Translational Science from UNC in 2023 and is now a medical student. As co-founder of the Women’s Health Multidisciplinary Consortium, Cherise has worked tirelessly to provide vision and leadership to grow a large, diverse, vibrant community of trainees interested in women’s health research and healthcare.”

The E. Eugene Jackson Award

Recipient: Joann Obioma

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.

“Joann Obioma has enriched the lives of seniors through helping students connect with attorneys, navigate law school admissions, and build a strong support system. As co-founder of the Black Pre-Law Association, the partnerships she has formed with local law schools and legal associations have allowed seniors to attend funded networking events and provided LSAT prep.”

The Earl Slocum Band Award

Recipient: Alyssa Wilson

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.

“Alyssa has been involved in the UNC Bands program the past 4 years and is respected by our staff and students. She has always performed as a member of the Marching Tar Heels and with our Wind Ensemble. She is a wonderful musician and has contributed to the flute section in many positive ways. She has also been the lead for our MTHVolunteers program, which coordinates the efforts of student in the marching band to volunteer in the community.”

The Edward Kidder Graham Award

Recipient: Phu Nguyen

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.

“Phu Nguyen has been called the Michael Jordan of community service. He was nominated for his work as founder of the student organization Magic of Science, which works to “enchant children of underserved backgrounds into developing an interest in science through fun and educational science experiments.” He has partnered with over 13 hospitals, expanded to over 15 high schools and colleges, and impacted over 1,000 children in need through the founding of this incredible organization.”

The Edward McGowan Hedgpeth Award

Recipient: Amelia Hammond

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.

“Amelia is a senior double majoring in Biology (BS) and Chemistry (BA) with a minor in classical humanities and she is planning on attending PA school in the future. Last year, she was AED’s social chair and this year she has served as AED’s president. During her time in AED, she has been committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment, ensuring that every member feels valued and represented. Through expanding social events and diversifying academic and service events, she has celebrated the unique backgrounds and interests of AED members. She aims to be a person that everyone can come to and rely on. She is passionate about service through AED, actively engaging with the Carolina and Chapel Hill communities through work with TABLE, Ronald McDonald House, Habitat for Humanity, and more. She has helped strengthen AED’s mission of service, inclusivity, and holistic engagement. A note from one of her peers is Amelia is such an amazing president! She goes to as many AED events as possible because she really cares about each and every one of us and loves this society with her entire heart. Another noted the she is always helping people and another said she is at every event she can attend and was always willing to help out when anyone needed anything. Over the past three years, I have seen these commitments continue to grow and her hard work in this organization is undeniable. Amelia has invested so much time, effort, and care into AED, and it has not gone unappreciated. Lastly, a member noted that the true mark of a leader tells not of the power by which they rule, but of the examples they’ve set through initiative and sacrifice. I believe Amelia embodies this sentiment of leadership … I have seen at multiple Habitat for Humanity builds, the commitment Amelia puts into the community and our volunteering team throughout multiple semesters. When our Ronald McDonald meals were short on volunteers … Amelia was always there to carry the weight multiple times.”

The Edward McGowan Hedgpeth Award

Recipient: Haylea Ledbetter

“Haylea is a senior with biology (BA) and medical anthropology (BA) majors, and she is pre-nursing (ABSN). Last year, she was AED’s treasurer and this year she has served as the Vice President. In her roles at AED, she has aimed to be an open door for all members, supporting everyone in any way she can. She strives to be a listening ear, a support network, and a point of encouragement for all. She has worked to increase pre health information and support networks, incorporate diverse perspectives, and guide members through their pre health journey. Haylea’s commitment to AED and its members has helped foster the community that makes AED so special, without Haylea, AED would not be what it is! Through shadowing and GBMs in AED, she has given members the opportunity to learn about and debate things that they truly care about, like bioethics and the climate impacts on healthcare. A note from one of her AED peers is “I can tell she puts her heart and soul into everything she does, whether it be delivering amazing GBMs with her incredible co-Vice President or attending service events hosted via AED. Another one wrote Haylea has been the most compassionate, understanding, and giving person that I have interacted with in AED. She is always open to give advice and welcomes the new PC with open arms and works so hard to ensure AED is a positive environment Lastly, one said that she puts her heart into everything she does. Overall, Haylea has been an amazing leader within AED and is very deserving of this award.”

The Ernest. H. Abernethy Prize in Student Publication Work

Recipient: Laney Crawley

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.

“Ms. Laney Crawley, editor-in-chief of the Daily Tar Heel, was chosen for the 2025 Abernethy Prize in Student Publication Work. As editor-in-chief of the Daily Tar Heel, Ms. Crawley led key news initiatives including a special edition on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion after UNC rolled back diversity initiatives. She also led key Daily Tar Heel news packages such as in-depth coverage of significant events like the treatment of student protesters by university police and the evolution of the board of trustees.”

The Ferebee Taylor Award

Recipient: Michelle Liu

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.

“Michelle was selected as the recipient. In her role as Undergraduate Student Attorney General, she leads from within by empowering all members of the Honor System to be engaged in the process. She balances university interest and the student experience to uphold and promote academic and personal integrity and honor.”

The Frank Porter Graham Award

Recipient: Eleanor Lindsay Bolton

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.

“Eleanor has served as a member of Campus Y Student Organization Executive Board since 2021 and also serves as a member of the Chancellor’s Student Advisory Committee, working to advocate for inclusive spaces for the student body. She exemplifies the ideals of equality, dignity, and community through her work, specifically targeting the issues of visibility and accessibility for students with disabilities on campus.”

The Graduate School Dean’s Award

Recipient: Joel Begay

“This award recognizes exceptional graduate students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and leadership at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Recipients are selected based on their remarkable scholarship contributions and impactful leadership experiences during their time at Carolina. A $500 award is presented annually to the recipients. ”

“Joel is pursuing his doctoral degree in epidemiology. While in graduate school, he has conducted groundbreaking research on late-stage breast cancer outcomes in minoritized populations. At Carolina, he has served as chair of the membership committee for the American College of Epidemiology and has led efforts to expand membership engagement and retention, ensuring that early-career epidemiologists and underrepresented groups have access to mentorship and professional development opportunities. One nomination reads: “His culturally responsive approach ensures that historical marginalized voices are heard and values through cancer research, Indigenous student organizations, and mentorship of early career public health professionals.”

The Graduate School Dean’s Award

Recipient: Verdant Julius

“Verdant is pursuing a master’s in public health, with a focus on maternal, child, and family health. As an influential leader in public health, Verdant offers vibrant energy and engagement among peers along with a passion for addressing equity in academia and service commitments. At Carolina, he has served as president of the Minority Student Caucus in at the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, as a student ambassador with the Gillings admissions office, and as a student representative at Gillings.”

The Graduate School Dean’s Award

Recipient: Rebecca Lesnefsky

“Rebecca is pursuing a doctoral program in education. With a deep commitment to improving educational research on social justice, Rebecca explores multiple dimensions of teacher education and ways to improve the preparation of teachers to support transformative learning environments for their students. She has a deep passion for supporting rural teachers and students in North Carolina. Rebecca has facilitated professional development workshops and training sessions that support rural teachers, implementing innovative, socio-scientific curricula tailored to meet the unique needs of their students and communities.”

The Intercutural Greek Council Award

Recipient: Anya Dippold

Established by the Intercultural Greek Council, this award is presented annually to one undergraduate member who has made the most significant contributions in the areas of leadership, scholarship, service to their individual chapters and/or council, and the Greek and University Communities.

“Anya Dippold has been an invaluable asset to the progress of the 2024 Intercultural Greek Council. Anya took charge at every meeting to ensure the space was safe and comfortable for people from different organizations to come together and be authentic and vulnerable. Anya’s passion towards IGC did not end after her terms as treasurer (2023) and president (2024), as she continues to be available to help serve the current Executive Board. Whenever someone in IGC needs help, no matter what organization, Anya is welcoming and always willing to lend a hand.”

The Interfraternity Council Man of the Year

Recipient: Nathan Lewis

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.

“Nathan was an exceptional IFC President who demonstrated strong leadership and dedication to improving the Interfraternity Council and the community around him. From day one, Nathan’s visions and initiatives strengthened chapter operations across the IFC landscape and promoted a culture of brotherhood regardless of chapter affiliation. Nathan also showed what it was like to be a strong role model. He helped guide new chapter presidents and IFC executive members to strong terms and leadership capabilities. His ability to lead with integrity and inclusivity left a lasting positive impact on the council and the broader Greek community.”

The Irene F. Lee Award

Recipient: Jessica Hoffman

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.

“Jessica engages with the world with humility and respect, carrying her identity and deep connection to her roots with quiet strength. She’s a brilliant friend and a vital part of her family, gracefully using her voice and skills to encourage others and advocate for those facing systemic barriers. She inspires, empowers, and has built a legacy of meaningful change that embodies the essence of this award.”

The J. Maryon Saunders Award

Recipient: Madison Buschek

Established by the 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.

“Madison has proven to the be the true embodiment of what all students at our University should be. Not only has she excelled academically within the classroom, but she has also served outside of the classroom – across campus as she has served as the President of the Homecoming Committee and as a Senior Marshal, in the local community as a valued member of the Renewable Energy Special Projects Committee, and even abroad. Her hard work and determination have deemed her more than deserving of this Chancellor’s Award, as her time at UNC has been spent on the Dean’s List and she has truly worked to enhance the goodwill between the University and its students, alumni, and friends.”

The James O. Cansler Service Award

Recipient: Haley Gray

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.

“Haley Gray is deeply committed to service to her community, drawing inspiration from her faith to uplift and support those around her. Haley is an active member and mentor of the North Carolina Study Center, where she currently serves as Lead Hospitality Intern. She also serves as a Family Ministry Associate at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church in Raleigh.”

The Jim Tatum Memorial Award

Recipient: James Jonathan Jones II

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.

“From the very beginning, JJ has been a hard worker who has had a clear focus and vision of his future. JJ graduated the summer of 2024 from UNC Chapel Hill with a degree in Journalism from the prestigious Hussman School of Journalism and Media, finishing his undergraduate career in only three and a half years. This is a very ambitious goal that is very difficult to achieve, especially in this major while balancing being a Division I scholarship student-athlete on the UNC Football Team. JJ has been able to achieve this because of his incredible focus and drive and his determination to accomplish his goals. JJ has made the UNC Dean’s List, ACC Academic Honor Roll, and Tar Heel Scholar-Athlete. Athletically, JJ has had an incredible career at UNC, as the starting receiver for the team and has been the team captain and was a member of the leadership council for the Football team. He was named semifinalist for William V Campbell Trophy, which is awarded by the National Football Foundation to the American college football player with the best combination of academics, community service, and on-field performance. During his time at UNC, JJ has taken rigorous coursework in areas like media and broadcasting, sports broadcasting, interactive media, digital storytelling. While at UNC, JJ has also participated in various media opportunities, immersing himself in the field of sports broadcasting and journalism. At every step, JJ has continued to pursue opportunities and experiences in sports broadcasting. JJ has also proven to be a great leader to all those around him. He participated in the Richard A. Baddour Carolina Leadership Academy, where he attended workshops and networking events with various campus and community partners and organizations. JJ has also served on various student-athlete panels, providing insight into the student-athlete experience. He has served as a mentor to various freshmen on the UNC Football Team, helping them successfully transition to the university. What makes JJ so special as a person, student, and leader is his ability to always think of those around him and give back to the community he is a part of. While at UNC, JJ has devoted countless hours to various volunteer opportunities, giving back to the Chapel Hill community. He attended various visits with the UNC Children’s Hospital and local elementary schools and organized various groups to volunteer with local youth. Additionally, he has attended local elementary schools and read to the classes, helped the teachers and even attended physical education classes with kids to help motivate and inspire them. In addition to this, he has also donated financially to various non profit organizations in the North Carolina Community. He has devoted countless hours giving back to those around him in every way he can. When his best friend and teammate, Tylee Craft, illness progressed, he was next to him in the hospital every day for hours during the fall semester and in his football season. He even visited him at the hospice center before his passing to stand by his side, wearing his football jersey in the game the day he passed. He spoke at Tylee’s funeral in Sumter, South Carolina. As a leader on the UNC Football team, he was the senior speaker at the football banquet this year as well. JJ has also hosted the Rammy’s, which is an annual event for the department of Athletics at UNC, celebrating the accomplishments of athletes across our 28 sports at UNC Chapel Hill and was the MC for the 2024 Mack Brown Ladies Clinique. He represented the UNC Football Team this past summer at the Black Student-Athlete Summit as well.”

The John Johnston Parker, Jr. Medal for Unique Leadership in Student Government

Recipient: Matthew Tweden

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.

“Matthew Tweden is a committed leader who has dedicated his time at the University to perpetuating the spirit and honor of student self-governance. He built strong and lasting connections as Chair of the Joint Governance Council, and he has worked to propose policy reforms that reflect the interests of students, written policies, designed programs, and prioritized relationships between student government and administrators.”

The Keith Shawn Smith Award for Community Development and Mentorship

Recipient: Fareeda Akewusola

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.

“Fareeda was chosen for the Keith Shawn Smith Chancellor’s Award for Community Development and Mentorship for her overwhelming impact on her community. As a Resident Advisor for our upper-division apartment community, Ram Village, Fareeda received nominations and letters of support from multiple residents for whom she provides guidance, care and consistent support. As summarized in one of the many attributions to her leadership, Fareeda exemplifies dedication, responsibility, and kindness. She balances authority with approachability, making her an exceptional RA and role model. Despite being involved in multiple clubs, she takes her position seriously, never hesitating to help when needed. She has not only shown me how much an RA can truly impact a community, but she has become more than just my RA – she has become a dear friend, not just to me but to many others in Ram Village. It’s clear being an RA has become more than just a job to her, and I cannot think of a more deserving recipient for such an incredible award.”

The Marty Pomerantz Sport Clubs Council Achievement Award

Recipient: Malachi Jowers

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.

“Malachi Jowers is an outstanding leader of the Carolina Team Handball Club (CTHC). As president, he has ensured the club’s lasting health by organizing fundraising events, coordinating tournaments and travel, and fostering team bonding. His positive influence on and off the court sets the tone for the team. Malachi’s dedication, often behind the scenes, has been crucial to CTHC’s success. Through creative recruiting and engaging practices, Malachi has made the club fun and welcoming, attracting new members and building a strong sense of community. His efforts have increased the club’s popularity on campus and its connection to the wider handball scene. It has been a pleasure to coach Malachi and watch him grow into an exceptional leader.”

The National Pan-Hellenic Council Award

Recipient: Evan Andrews

“The National Pan-Hellenic Council nominates Evan Andrews for the National Pan-Hellenic Council Award because he consistently demonstrates leadership, scholarship, and service. As Vice President of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), Evan showed outstanding leadership and initiative. He assisted in the efforts of ensuring the council operated smoothly and effectively. Evan’s proactive approach kept the council organized and thriving, earning him the respect of his peers. Additionally, Evan served as President of the Psi Delta chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., leading his fraternity with the same level of dedication. Balancing these two important roles are a major time commitment and require focus and responsibility, all of which Evan handled successfully. Evan Andrews truly embodies the values that the National Pan-Hellenic Council Award celebrates. His leadership, academic excellence, and dedication to service have made a real difference at UNC and beyond. He has shown what it means to lead with integrity, hard work, while caring deeply for others, proving that he is an excellent choice for this prestigious award.”

The Panhellenic Association Woman of the Year

Recipient: Logan Pastor

“The Panhellenic Community nominates Logan Pastor for the Panhellenic Council Woman of the Year Award because she was a hard-working leader and role model within the Panhellenic community. Logan has initiated positive changes within our community and has provided encouragement and support to members. She has persistently advocated for important initiatives and causes raised by Panhellenic members. She prioritized Narcan training and organized a session for risk management officers and chapter presidents to learn how to administer Naloxone effectively. Speakers from Student Wellness participated in the session, which Logan coordinated to ensure every chapter had access to at least two doses of Naloxone for their houses and events. She also promoted initiatives to obtain free Naloxone through Campus Health or the Student Wellness office. She provided an exceptional support system and continuous commitment to Panhellenic. Logan made a huge impact on our community, and it is our honor to nominate Logan Pastor as the Panhellenic Council Woman of the Year for 2024.”

The Robert White Linker Award

Recipient: Shavashti Mercer

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.

“Shavashti ‘Vash’ Mercer was selected for the Robert White Linker Award due to her transformative leadership, unwavering dedication to community building, and outstanding contributions to Carolina Housing and the National Residence Hall Honorary. As the NRHH Director of Support and Outreach, Vash has redefined internal engagement, creating meaningful connections and fostering a strong sense of belonging among members. Her leadership extends to her role as a Resident Advisor Mentor, where she balances professionalism and approachability while guiding her team with care. Through her commitment to service, leadership, and recognition, Vash has strengthened the Carolina residential experience.”

The Roger A. Davis Memorial Award

Recipient: Daniel Wang

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.

“Daniel Wang was selected for the Roger A. Davis Memorial Award due to his unwavering dedication to uplifting both residents and fellow Resident Advisors. As an RA at Granville and an engaged NRHH member, Daniel goes above and beyond to foster community and recognition. Beyond the halls, his passion for service shines through his volunteer work, demonstrates his deep commitment to making a difference.”

The Walter S. Spearman Award

Recipient: Ricardo Scheufen Tieghi

The Walter S. Spearman Award was established in 1984 by Chi Psi Fraternity. Given in memory of a journalism professor who was noted as a distinguished teacher, journalist, and mentor of students, it is presented to a man in the senior class whose academic achievements, co-curricular activities, leadership qualities, and strength of character are considered by a panel of judges to be most outstanding.

“Ricardo has exemplified outstanding academic achievement, bridging the theoretical with the practical. His engagement spans beyond traditional academic boundaries, as he has seamlessly interwoven scientific innovation, dynamic leadership, and a passion for community service.”

The William S. Carlton Intramural Sports Employee Award

Recipient: Garrett Kane

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.

“Garrett was chosen for the William S. Carlton Intramural Sports Employee Award based upon his excellence as a student official, in addition to his continued dedication to the Sport Programs department through his leadership role as a supervisor. Garrett’s work as an official and supervisor is consistently high-level, reliable, and serves as an example to others, which has been demonstrated through his selection as a Championship Night official and his steady mentorship to younger officials on staff.”

The Willie P. Mangum Medal in Oratory

Recipient: Anna Crist

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.

“Anna was chosen for the Willie P. Mangum Medal in Oratory because of her excellence in speech and oration. She has also served as the Joint Senate President of the Dialectic and Philanthropic Societies, where her outstanding leadership ability, kindness, and learnedness shined.”