Despite rainy weather, Phoenix pride shone through as �鶹��Ƶ welcomed alumni back to campus for Homecoming and Reunion Weekend, Oct. 9-10.

The weekend kicked off with the biggest Homecoming concert artist in university history — at least in height. DJ Diesel, also known as NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, performed a high-energy DJ set for Rock the Block on Young Commons with a crowd of 5,000 alumni, students and community members. The performance included several memorable moments, including fans joining DJ Diesel onstage, among them �鶹��Ƶ President Connie Ledoux Book.

“It was the exact same as when we were here,” said Suzanne Wirt ’06, reflecting on the DJ Diesel performance on Young Commons. “He was yelling ‘Hands up!’ at us, and we put our hands up. It was great.”

‘It’s like we never left’

Saturday brought steady rain, but the wet weather did little to dampen the excitement as alumni gathered for food, fellowship and opportunities to reconnect with classmates and friends.

Susanne Wirt ’06 returned to campus to celebrate her 20-year reunion with friends she met during her time at �鶹��Ƶ. Two decades later, those friendships remain an important part of her life.

“We’ve been friends forever, and it feels like I would not have met them had I not come to �鶹��Ƶ,” said Wirt. “It felt like home when I first walked onto campus, and I was like, ‘OK, this is it. Once I saw �鶹��Ƶ, I did not consider other schools.”

For Ann Evory ’86, Homecoming offered an opportunity to reconnect with classmates she had not seen in 40 years.

“All of our kids are grown now, and we’ve started to have grandkids, and it’s a different season of life where we can all be together. It’s like we never left each other,” Evory said.

This year marked the first time sisters Darcy Steele ’91 and Melissa Snyder ’92 returned to �鶹��Ƶ together for Homecoming. Both had visited campus in the years since graduation and continued to be impressed by the university’s growth and transformation.

“It’s nice to see, as an alum, that when you’re investing, they actually invest back into the school,” said Snyder, who earned a degree in psychology.

While the campus has changed significantly over the decades, the personal connections and mentorship that define the �鶹��Ƶ experience remain familiar to returning alumni.

“I babysat for one of my professors and our professors knew us by name, and it was very cool, because at the time �鶹��Ƶ was smaller than the high school I graduated from, so that was a different experience,” said Steele, who earned a degree in education.

Phoenix on the field

On the field, in Saturday’s Homecoming football game, falling 16-0. Despite outgaining Wofford, �鶹��Ƶ was unable to score in the rainy conditions. The Terriers forced five turnovers and stopped the Phoenix twice on fourth down to keep �鶹��Ƶ off the scoreboard.

Homecoming Royalty was also selected during Saturday’s game. The voting process, hosted by the Student Government Association, is designed to honor members of the senior class who have made a significant contribution to the life of the University. Applications are reviewed by a faculty/staff panel nominated by students

The nominees selected—based on their leadership, commitment to service, involvement, and school spirit—serve on the Homecoming Court. Based on a vote of the student body, two members of the court are honored as Homecoming royalty during the Homecoming football game. Selena Bautista ’27 and Trinity Wilson ’27 were crowned Homecoming royalty.

The weekend also brought former Phoenix athletes back to campus, including Robert “Bubba” Burnett ’95, who reunited with fellow members of the �鶹��Ƶ football program. Burnett, who earned a degree in psychology, was inducted into the �鶹��Ƶ Athletics Hall of Fame in 2004.

“It’s cool seeing everybody from the past,” said Burnett. “You can’t go back, but it seems like we are.”

‘It feels like home’

Other signature events for the weekend included the Golden Alumni Luncheon & Class of 1976 Induction Ceremony, a special Welcome Home College Coffee, along with several Greek reunions and Affinity Network Events.

For Eric Hernandez ’16 and Audrey Bakhach ’16, the weekend marked their 10-year reunion and an opportunity to reflect on how their �鶹��Ƶ experiences shaped their lives and careers.

Bakhach, who earned a degree in communications and now owns a marketing agency in Charleston, South Carolina, recalled how her connection to �鶹��Ƶ ultimately brought her back to the university after spending her first year of college elsewhere.

“My heart was so set on �鶹��Ƶ. For some reason, it just feels right to me,” she said of her college experience. “So, I transferred back in my sophomore year. I loved every minute of it. I wouldn’t change a thing. I’m glad I transferred, and it was always where I had my eyes and heart set, just from the campus and the people.”

Hernandez also credits �鶹��Ƶ with helping launch his career in the entertainment industry. In 2016, he was named one of three finalists in the Coca-Cola Regal Films Competition, receiving $15,000 to turn a script into a 30-second commercial. That opportunity helped open doors to work with some of the biggest names in entertainment.

“From there, I’ve worked with companies like PBS, Paramount and Netflix, and I owe that all to my experience here,” he said. “It’s good being back. It feels like home.”

• Vote on the E’s! – Come out to vote on your favorite E. Voting will take place at different locations throughout the week—don’t miss your chance to be part of the excitement.
• SGA Royalty Court Voting – Don’t forget to vote for the 2026 SGA Homecoming Royalty Court. Cast your ballot on PhoenixCONNECT any time this week before voting closes Friday, Oct. 9, at 5 p.m.

Check out the full lineup of events happening this week and make the most of Homecoming 2026!

Homecoming Week College Coffee and E Voting

Tuesday, Oct. 6, 9:40 a.m. – 10:20 a.m., Medallion Plaza

Join us for a special Homecoming edition of College Coffee as we celebrate with treats and prizes! The Homecoming E’s will be on display for voting. Note that voting for your favorite E design takes place throughout the week in various locations.

Celebrate with SUB at the Student Homecoming Celebration

Wednesday, Oct. 7, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Phi Beta Kappa Commons (Rain location: Alumni Gym)

Join the Student Union Board for food and activities at the Wednesday Homecoming Week Celebration. Visit for more details.

NPHC Homecoming Step Show

Thursday, Oct. 8,  8 p.m., Alumni Gym

Join the member organizations of the �鶹��Ƶ National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) as they take the stage in a series of intricate dance steps, vibrant music selections and elaborate show themes. Hosted by Dannay Sellers, Class of 2014, the doors open at 7 p.m. and the event starts at 8 p.m.

Rock the Block & Homecoming Concert featuring DJ Diesel (Shaquille O’Neal)

Friday, Oct. 9, 6-9 p.m., Young Commons

Don’t miss this annual celebration and community block party kicking off Homecoming weekend. Enjoy food trucks, yard games, inflatables and a fireworks show. We are excited to have DJ Diesel (aka Shaquille O’Neal) with us for the Homecoming Concert – it will be a fun evening for everyone! Here are a few details to help you prepare for the concert:

• Doors will open at 6 p.m., and the concert will take place rain or shine at 7:30 pm.
• The concert has a 5,000-person maximum capacity. Once capacity is reached, additional guests will not be admitted into the concert area.  Re-entry is not guaranteed. If you leave the concert area, you may not be able to re-enter.
• There are two entrances, both on the north end of Young Commons: one between Koury Gym and Moseley Student Center, and the other between Belk Library and Moseley Student Center.

Visit the for more information.

Cheer on the Phoenix

Saturday, Oct. 10

Student Tailgate

9 a.m.-2 p.m., Hunt B (back parking lot of the Schar Center)

Before the football game, get ready to tailgate Phoenix-style! Visit the (or stop by Moseley 205) for more information.

�鶹��Ƶ v. Wofford College

2 p.m., Rhodes Stadium

Get ready to cheer on the Phoenix as �鶹��Ƶ football takes on Wofford College. Kickoff is at 2 p.m.

Have a great Homecoming Week, Phoenix!

There is no public meet-and-greet or public interview opportunity with the artist.

To make sure everyone has a smooth and enjoyable experience, please review the following information before arriving.

Getting In

• There are no tickets required for entry. The concert area on Young Commons has a maximum capacity of 5,000 attendees. Once the event reaches capacity, additional guests will not be admitted into the concert.
• Due to the 5,000-person capacity, if you leave the concert, you may not be able to re-enter. It is important to plan accordingly before leaving the concert area.
• There will be two primary entrances, located on either side of the Moseley Student Center facing Young Commons:
  • Between Koury Gym and Moseley Student Center
  • Between Moseley Student Center and Belk Library

Event Map What you can bring

• Attendees are encouraged to leave bags at home. If you must bring a bag, please note that only clear bags will be permitted. All bags are subject to inspection.
• Please do not bring:
  • Bags that are not clear (*diaper and medical bags permitted)
    Outside food/alcohol, non-clear sealed beverages (*factory-sealed bottles of water permitted)
  • Dogs or other pets (*service animals permitted)

Food, Bathrooms, and Other Amenities

• Several food trucks will be available on site. Food truck tickets can be purchased at the Ticket Sales tent via cash or credit card.
• There will be a bar serving beer and wine. Drink tickets can be purchased for $7.
• Ticket packages are available:
  • Food truck ticket: $10
  • Drink ticket: $7
  • Dessert ticket: $5
  • Food Ticket Package (Five food tickets): $46
  • Maroon Ticket Package (Three food, two drink tickets): $40
  • Gold Ticket Package (Six food, four drink tickets): $80
• Bathrooms will be available inside:
  • Koury Concourse
  • Moseley Student Center

Weather

• The concert will take place rain or shine. Please check the weather before arriving and dress accordingly.

Fireworks

• Fireworks will start at the end of the concert at approximately 8:30 p.m. and will last for three minutes.

Explore the full schedule and event details on the Homecoming Week Student Edition webpage. Additional information is also available on or by contacting Student Involvement at studentinvolvement@elon.edu, 336-278-7214, or in Moseley 205. Follow Student Involvement on social media for the latest updates and student events throughout Homecoming Week.

Week-long Events

SGA Royalty Court Voting

All Day | PhoenixCONNECT

All students can vote for the 2025 SGA Homecoming Royalty Court. Visit for more details and to cast your vote. Voting ends Friday, Oct. 9 at 5 p.m.

Monday, Oct. 5

Phoenix Spirit Shoutouts

All Day | Instagram

Tag or send your organization photos to the to be featured on our page.

SGA Trivia

7-9 p.m. | McKinnon Hall 

Join SGA OnePhoenix for a trivia night to kick off Homecoming week! This trivia will be played in pairs, so grab your duo partner and come compete for prizes! Visit for more information.

Tuesday Oct. 6

Homecoming Week College Coffee and E-Voting

9:40 – 10:20 a.m. | Medallion Plaza

Students are invited to join for a special Homecoming edition of College Coffee as we celebrate with treats and prizes! The Homecoming E’s will be on display for voting!

SGA Silent Disco

8 p.m. | Alumni Gym

Celebrate homecoming week with a glorious Silent Disco! Come enjoy tunes with your friends, hosted by THE DJ Dillon Jam, and watch for a special guest. Hosted by the Student Government Association’s OnePhoenix Committee!

Wednesday, Oct. 7

SUB Homecoming Student Celebration

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Phi Beta Kappa Commons (Rain location: Alumni Gym)

Join the Student Union Board to celebrate Homecoming Week! We will have food and lots of fun activities – some themed around our Rock the Block artist, DJ Diesel. Hope to see you there! Visit for more details.

Voting on the E’s

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Phi Beta Kappa Commons (Rain location: Alumni Gym)

Thursday, Oct. 8

Voting on the E’s

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Medallion Plaza (Rain location: Moseley Student Center)

Hoco Swag Wagon

Noon – 2 p.m. | Medallion Plaza

Find SUB around campus in the ‘SWAGON’ handing out great snacks and giveaways! The wagon will start on Medallion Plaza alongside E-voting, then will travel around campus while supplies last. Follow the for real-time updates. Visit for more details.

NPHC Homecoming Step Show

7 p.m. (Doors open at 6:30 p.m.) | McKinnon Hall 

Join the National Pan-Hellenic Council for the NPHC Homecoming Step Show. Watch Divine 9 fraternities and sororities battle it out on the stage in a series of dance steps, music selections and show themes. Alumni, staff, faculty and community members can purchase a ticket for $10 via the Homecoming & Reunion Weekend website until 3 p.m. the day of the show.

SUB Coffeehouse

10 p.m. | Irazu

Join SUB for the first SUB Spelling Bee. Whether you want to spell for a prize or just come for the entertainment, this Coffeehouse will be un-BEE-lievable! Check out the SUB Instagram @elonsub to sign up to compete. Free coffee will be provided! Visit for more details.

Friday, Oct. 9

Dance with Pride

6 p.m. | Upstairs Lakeside Rooms

Homecoming is about to get LOUD! Get ready for DANCE WITH PRIDE — the ultimate pregame before the big Homecoming concert! There’ll be great food and hype music! Put on your best fit and bring your pride and energy. Be loud. Be proud. DANCE WITH PRIDE! This event is free and open to all members of the LGBTQIA community and allies! ! Visit for more info.

Rock the Block & Homecoming Concert featuring DJ Diesel (aka Shaquille O’Neal)

6-9 p.m. | Young Commons

The annual celebration and community block party will host a variety of food trucks, yard games, inflatables and a fireworks show. DJ Diesel, also known as Shaquille O’Neal, will headline the Homecoming Concert with a performance beginning at 7:30 p.m. Here are a few important reminders to help you plan ahead for the event:

• Doors will open at 6 p.m., and the concert will take place rain or shine at 7:30 pm.
• The concert has a capacity limit; therefore, re-entry is not guaranteed
• The clear bag policy will be enforced.
• There are two primary entrances to Young Commons: Between Koury Gym and Moseley Student Center and between Moseley Center and Belk Library

Visit the Rock the Block information webpage for more information.

SUBCinema: Challengers Movie in Turner Theatre

10:30 p.m. | Turner Theatre

Movie description: Tashi, a former tennis prodigy-turned-coach, transformed her husband into a champion. But to overcome a recent losing streak and redeem himself, he’ll need to face off against his former best friend–Tashi’s ex-boyfriend. Movie Rating: R.

Saturday, Oct. 10

Student Tailgating

9 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Hunt B (back parking lot of Schar Center)

Grab your gear, cheer loud and celebrate Phoenix-style at the student tailgate! Visit the Student Involvement Tailgating website (or stop by Moseley 205) for more information.

SGA Crowning of Homecoming Royalty

After the third quarter during the football game| Rhodes Stadium

Come celebrate all members of the Homecoming Court and see two students be crowned as this year’s “Homecoming Royalty.”

SUBCinema: Challengers

8:30 p.m. | Turner Theatre

Plain White T’s headlined last year with over 2,000 alumni, students and friends in attendance! As a fan-favorite Homecoming event, Rock the Block will once again transform into a full music festival experience featuring a variety of food trucks, a bar, activities and an end-of-night fireworks show.

O’Neal will perform from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Rock the Block and the Homecoming Concert are open to all members of the �鶹��Ƶ community for free, so register for today!

The first Phoenix Five of the year is here! Each Sunday afternoon, I’ll send you a quick email with five things you need to know for the week ahead. This could include important deadlines and campus events or helpful reminders and opportunities to get involved.  My goal is simple: keep you as informed as possible with one Sunday email you can use to plan your week ahead.

With classes beginning on Tuesday, here are five things to help you start the semester off right.

Get Connected on Social Media

Social media is one of the easiest ways to stay plugged in at �鶹��Ƶ. If you want to know what’s happening on campus in real time, here are a few Instagram accounts I recommend:

• �鶹��Ƶ (main)
• Phoenix Athletics and Phoenix Phanatics
• Student Life
• �鶹��Ƶ Dining
• Student Union Board
• �鶹��Ƶ News Network
• HealthEU

Hypnotist

Monday, Aug. 24, 8:30-11 p.m., Alumni Gym

Join the Student Union Board (SUB) for the annual hypnotist show – a student favorite! Come ready to watch your friends (or maybe even yourself!) take the stage for an unforgettable, hilarious performance. .

�鶹��Ƶ Campus Traditions – Starting this Week!

College Coffee

Tuesdays, 9:40-10:20 a.m., Alumni Gym

College Coffee is one of �鶹��Ƶ’s most beloved traditions. Every Tuesday morning, the entire campus gathers for coffee, treats and conversation. It’s a chance to meet people, connect with faculty and staff, and hear about what’s happening around campus. If your student organization wants to host an information table at College Coffee, information on .

Numen Lumen: A Thursday Inspiration

Thursdays, 9:50-10:20 a.m., Numen Lumen Pavilion

On Thursday mornings, we pause for a moment of reflection and inspiration. You’ll hear music from student, faculty, and staff performers and reflections from members of our community. This year’s theme is and the first Numen Lumen of the year will be held this Thursday.

Getting Started with Canvas

Beginning with the Fall 2026 semester, �鶹��Ƶ is using Canvas instead of Moodle. You’ll use it to access course materials, submit assignments, communicate with your instructors, and view your grades. Before classes begin:

• Log in to Canvas using your �鶹��Ƶ account.
• After logging in for the first time, as part of setting up your Canvas account. Your account will not be fully functional until you do.
• Visit the for student guides, FAQs and support resources.
• Learn the basics by enrolling in the course.

When you log in, you may not see all of your Fall courses immediately. Your instructors will make courses available before or on the first day of class.

Cheer on Phoenix at First Home Football Game

Thursday, Aug. 27

Student Tailgate

2-7 p.m., Hunt B (back parking lot of the Schar Center)

Before football kickoff, get ready to ignite your game day with Phoenix spirit at the student tailgate. Parking passes are available in Student Involvement and are limited to one pass per student and three passes per student organization or group.

�鶹��Ƶ v. Glenville State

7 p.m., Rhodes Stadium

Start off the fall semester by cheering on the Phoenix as �鶹��Ƶ opens the football season against Glenville State. Kickoff is at 7 p.m. in Rhodes Stadium.

Alongside this infographic, these stories highlight some of the positive impact across campus through community partnerships during the past academic year:

• �鶹��Ƶ receives Carnegie classification for community engagement
• �鶹��Ƶ recognized for advancing nonpartisan student civic engagement
• �鶹��Ƶ creates community through Special Olympics and �鶹��Ƶ Athletics partnership
• Turning service into impact: How an �鶹��Ƶ alumna is bringing Alamance County together
• Literary Journalism class engages Town of �鶹��Ƶ mayor in civic dialogue
• Writing for Impact students secure funding for local nonprofit
• Showing up, growing together: Inside KING/PINK Academy’s power of mentorship
• Students reflect on service, community and connection during Fall Break
• New HealthEU course encourages students to go ‘beyond the �鶹��Ƶ bubble’
• �鶹��Ƶ empowers staff to make an impact in the community through paid volunteer leave

Refined during the 2025-26 academic year with oversight from Sam Lopez, associate director of Student Involvement, SOE builds on prior efforts to provide a structured approach to chapter development, encouraging organizations to engage intentionally across key areas, including intellectual development, membership development, chapter operations, alumni and graduate engagement, responsibility, health, and safety, and housing operations.

Throughout the year, chapters participated in training, educational programs, and philanthropic initiatives, with members across all class years contributing to their organization’s progress. A points-based tracking system measured engagement and outcomes, with chapters earning recognition at the Red, Bronze, Silver or Gold level based on overall performance.

Supporting chapters throughout this process is a chapter coaching model led by Assistant Directors of Student Involvement Aniya Jerkins, IFC/NPHC advisor, and Kayla Hedrick, PA/MGC advisor. Through ongoing coaching, individualized support, and regular check-ins, staff work directly with chapter leaders to help them interpret expectations, set goals and make meaningful progress within the SOE framework.

The SOE program is also made possible through collaboration across multiple campus partners, creating a holistic and integrated approach to student organization development. Contributing offices included the Center for Race, Ethnicity, and Diversity Education; Kernodle Center for Civic Life; Gender & LGBTQIA Center; Truitt Center for Religious and Spiritual Life; Health Promotion, Academic Accommodations & Accessibility; Center for Leadership; Residence Life; Student Conduct; Inclusive Excellence; Hazing Prevention Coalition; and Belk Library.

Thirteen organizations achieved Gold Status, the program’s highest level of recognition: Alpha Chi Omega, Alpha Epsilon Phi, Alpha Omicron Pi, Alpha Xi Delta, Beta Theta Pi, Chi Upsilon National Latin Sorority, Inc., Delta Delta Delta, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Kappa Delta, Kappa Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc., Lambda Upsilon Lambda Fraternity, Inc., Sigma Kappa and Zeta Tau Alpha.

Chapter leaders also participated in end-of-year presentations, sharing accomplishments, challenges, and goals with a panel of �鶹��Ƶ faculty and staff. These presentations, combined with each chapter’s SOE performance, helped inform the selection of the Chapter of the Year recipients across the four governing councils. Chapter of the Year honors recognize organizations that distinguish themselves through a strong commitment to leadership, accountability and community engagement.

This year’s recipients are:
Beta Theta Pi (Interfraternity Council) demonstrated strong growth and achievement across the academic year, earning top marks in both fall and spring semester GPAs, and receiving national recognition through the Knox Award. The chapter expanded member engagement through a variety of brotherhood events and campus partnerships, including collaborations with the Burlington Animal Shelter, while also showing a commitment to health and safety through high participation in training programs and prevention initiatives.

Chi Upsilon Sigma National Latin Sorority, Inc. (Multicultural Greek Council) excelled academically and organizationally, earning an “Above & Beyond” rating for both fall and spring semesters’ GPAs, and actively participating in academic enrichment initiatives such as the Chapter Study Challenge and campus study programs. The chapter showed strong commitment to leadership and service through executive board engagement, partnership with the Mebane Public Library, alumni programming and recognition at the national level.

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. (National Pan-Hellenic Council) maintained an active presence in leadership, educational engagement and community programming throughout the year. The chapter achieved high academic success while participating in identity-based programming and campus events, including the Black Solidarity Conference and Spring Pride. Their efforts also included hosting a Rise Against Hunger service event and engaging members in professional development opportunities, reflecting a focus on both community impact and member growth.

Alpha Chi Omega (Panhellenic Association) demonstrated comprehensive excellence across all areas of the Standards of Excellence program, exceeding expectations in member education and leadership development. The chapter hosted a wide range of sisterhood, philanthropic, and career-focused initiatives, including “Walk a Mile,” Alpha Chi Olympics, and a professional headshot and LinkedIn workshop, while also establishing partnerships with Family Abuse Services. Their strong participation in health and safety training and consistent chapter operations reflect a well-rounded and highly engaged organization.

The Office of Student Involvement will continue to build on the program’s first year, with plans to further support chapter development and enhance opportunities for engagement across the fraternity and sorority community.

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’s 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’t 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’s 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’t trash it!

Don’t Trash It! is �鶹��Ƶ’s 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’t Trash It website.

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

Remarks were delivered by Anya Bratić ’26, 2025–26 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 �鶹��Ƶ 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’s dedication, hard work and time invested in supporting their student organization.

Barbara H. Carlton Outstanding Advisor of the Year Recipient: Abdul Malik Harrison ’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: Daniel Pupo ’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’Shea Outstanding Service to Students Award

Named in honor of Brian Charles O’Shea, 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’Shea 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 �鶹��Ƶ 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 ’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 ’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 �鶹��Ƶ 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’s 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 �鶹��Ƶ

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  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’s success.

Janice R. Ratliff Student Organization Member of the Year Recipient: Diana Jimenez-Carreno ’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 ’26, Alpha Omicron Pi

Dr. J. Earl Danieley Leadership Award

Named after one of �鶹��Ƶ’s 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 ’26, Alpha Chi Omega
• Dr. J. Earl Danieley Leadership Award Non-FSC Member Recipient: Salome Onikolase ’26, African Diaspora of �鶹��Ƶ

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 �鶹��Ƶ and the broader Fraternity and Sorority Community.

Margie Watkins National Pan-Hellenic Council Member of the Year Recipient: Haleigh Cephus ’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 ’27, Alpha Omicron Pi

Interfraternity Council Member of the Year

Recipient: Will Coughenour ’26, Sigma Pi

Multicultural Greek Council Member of the Year

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