Tusculum recently held its Honors Convocation, which enabled the university to recognize students as well as faculty and staff members. The event included awards for students in each of Tusculum’s five colleges, and faculty and staff members were honored for their work at the university, particularly in assisting students.
“As the academic year ends, it is appropriate to step back and reflect on all our students have accomplished,” said Dr. Scott Hummel, Tusculum’s president. “The list of achievements is extensive, including academic success, service to others, creativity and demonstrations of character. The value of a Tusculum education for students flows from expanded knowledge through active and experiential learning, civic engagement, growth in faith and lots of fun.”
Honorees included those with the highest grade point averages in the different academic departments, students of the year and winners of Curtis and Billie Owens Literary Awards prizes. Students who have been selected as Ledford Scholars by the Appalachian College Association and will conduct financially supported research during the summer also earned commendation.
Emilie Hansen received the President’s Award from Dr. Hummel. This honor goes to the graduating senior who has been the most outstanding achiever in the combined areas of academic achievement, athletics, campus leadership and personality.
Hansen is pursuing majors in art and design as well as business administration and was a captain on the women’s tennis team. She is a member of Alpha Chi and Students Pray on Thursday and serves as a peer tutor. She was also part of the student team that created a customized graphics package for the Ford Mustang.
While the convocation’s focus was primarily on students, the university also celebrated faculty, staff and community members.
The most vocal reactions by students came during the presentation of Outstanding Service to Students Awards to Chuck Sutton, director of student affairs, and Nancy Leonard, an employee in the cafeteria. Leonard and much of the audience became emotional when she was announced and the students erupted in shouts of joy.
Betty Smith from Tusculum Baptist Church received the Outstanding Service to Students Award for a community member.
“We are Pioneers, and the Honors Convocation is an outstanding way to showcase all that being part of the Tusculum family entails,” said Dr. Tricia Hunsader, provost and vice president of academic affairs. “Evidence of excellence is abundant throughout Tusculum, and we are thrilled to recognize everyone who contributes to and embodies our mission. Students are career-ready when they graduate from our university due to the many opportunities to grow holistically at Tusculum.”
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