Ella Brunk Smith Award

In honor of Ella Brunk Smith, wife of former Elon President Dr. L.E. Smith, this award is presented to a female student in the senior class who has made significant contributions to the religious and moral life on campus.

Presented by Julie Tonnesen, LEAF (Lutherans, Episcopalians and Friends) Campus Minister and Spirit and Pride Coordinator

Transcript of Commendations

Julie Tonnesen, LEAF (Lutherans, Episcopalians and Friends) Campus Minister and Spirit and Pride Coordinator

On behalf of the Truitt Center for Religious and Spiritual Life, I am so pleased to present the Ella Brunk Smith award to Sarah Jane McDonald!  Throughout her time at Elon, SJ has been a Multifaith Scholar, an Interfaith Intern, a Leadership Fellow, a member of LEAF, Students for Peace and Social Justice (SPSJ), and much more.  SJ’s areas of study in Religious Studies, International and Global Studies, and Peace and Conflict Studies are all reflective of the passion she has for learning the stories of and advocating for refugees and migrant communities.  SJ has positively shaped the religious and moral landscape on campus with her presence: she has engaged in spaces that are reflective of her own spiritual commitments but has also shown up time and time again in spaces outside of her own tradition to listen, to stand in solidarity, and to support.  In addition, SJ has organized and led vigils and direct-action initiatives to honor the lives of those killed by gun violence, and other humanitarian crises.  Though I am saddened to see SJ leave Elon, I give thanks for her presence among us these past four years, and look forward to hearing about the positive impact she will continue to have on the world.  Congratulations, SJ!  We’re so proud of you.