Honored in Honors

This last week has been incredible. Since returning from the Honors Conference in DC, I have been overwhelmed by the amount of support and enthusiasm from the most unexpected people. I have been deeply grateful and humbled.

Saturday, October 31, I learned that I was named National Honors Student of the Year. I knew of my nomination before embarking on our trip, but didn't think I stood a chance. Let's just say, people at the National Collegiate Honors Council know how to keep a secret. And do it well. It was gratifying to meet the panel of judges who made the decision before I left, none of whom I had ever met before, but all of whom made a lasting impression.

Though the honor itself is overwhelming and incredibly appreciated, and though I am proud to represent my college and our Honors program on a national scale, I suppose what I am proud of most is how much our little Honors Program and Honors Student Association has accomplished. As I made rounds of the presentations at NCHC, it was amazing how many times I thought to myself, "hey, we already do that!"

It is a shining moment and a wonderful capstone to years of being a part of the Honors Program, to know that our efforts - monthly meetings, on and off-campus service projects, collaborative discussions, fundraisers, activities, social events, and conferences - are now appreciated and understood on a national level. We may be a smaller program than many of the institutions represented at NCHC, but we have a mighty heart and strong will and dedication that is unstoppable.

What an honor to receive this recognition during our Silver Anniversary year. I could not be more grateful.