W.L. Monroe Christian Education and Personality Award

Recipients of this award demonstrate citizenship and a strong desire to help others improve themselves. A trust created by the late W.L. Monroe Sr., who attended Elon in 1917, provides cash awards to the recipients.

Presented by Janet Fuller, University Chaplain and Dean of Multifaith Engagement and Lecturer

Transcript of Commendations

Janet Fuller, University Chaplain and Dean of Multifaith Engagement and Lecturer

William L. Monroe Sr. joined Elon as a student in 1917. While there he sought out two mentors who exemplified his values: a friendly attitude, good citizenship, personal growth, and the desire to help others. Starting in 1950, thirty-two years after Mr. Monroe left Elon, the award has been given to two students whose characteristics also shine. This year, we recognize and celebrate the 67th pair of students to receive this award. I have no doubt Mr. Monroe would be most pleased with this year’s recipients.

Connor Jenkins is a senior and an International Business major with minors in Spanish and Geographical Information Systems. During his time at Elon he’s played a number of important roles in the Kernodle Center for Civic Life. As a Leader in Collaborate Service student coordinator he recruited and trained undergraduate volunteers from Elon to tutor non-traditional students in English as a Second Language classes and Adult Basic Education courses at Alamance Community College.  Through his work he doubled the number of volunteers through strategic outreach to specific majors, departments, and student organizations.

Connor studied abroad in Spain during the fall of 2020 and upon his return to Elon the Kernodle Center identified him for a tailored role during the spring of 2021 to continue to connect his positive energy and passion to their office. This spring he has coordinated a meal supplementation project for youth in food-insecure families who are utilized at the Alamance County non-profit, Allied Churches. He has also finalized a partnership with the Maker’s Hub on Elon’s campus to create masks for local non-profits who lack supplies.

Connor is described as a servant leader who is both outstanding academically and thoughtful in his work. He’s recognized both by professional staff and faculty and by other students as an exemplary role model. He understands the importance of community partnership and engaged learning and incorporates creativity and passion into everything he takes on.

Congratulations to Connor on your recognition as a recipient of the 2021 Monroe Award.