Hosted by the Student Government Association, student leaders and student organizations were celebrated for outstanding achievements in mentoring, leadership, service and programming.
Student leaders, faculty and staff advisors gathered on Wednesday, April 30, for the Dr. Leo M. Lambert Awards, hosted by the Elon University Student Government Association.
During the ceremony, remarks were given by Taylor Cote ’25, Student Government Association president for 2024-25 and President Emeritus Leo M. Lambert. During Lambert’s remarks, he quoted Maya Angelou: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel,” encouraging students to make kindness their superpower.
Closing remarks were delivered by Jodean Schmiederer, dean of student development, who charged students to mentor those coming behind them.
Other notable highlights included recognition of service hours, acknowledging the 22,400 hours logged by student organizations within Phoenix Serve.
2025 Leo M. Lambert Award Recipients
Outstanding New Student Organization
Milk Club
The Outstanding New Student Organization Award honors the dedication and hard work required to launch and grow a new organization, recognizing the commitment and creativity it takes to make a meaningful impact on campus.
Reverend Richard McBride Campus/Greater Community Involvement Award
Sigma Kappa
The Reverend Richard McBride Campus/Greater Community Involvement Award recognizes an organization that has significantly contributed to the general welfare of the campus and the greater community through service. Their contributions have positively impacted the students and faculty at Elon University and the larger community.
Student Organization of the Year
30+ members: German Club
Less than 30 members: Eco-Reps
The Student Organization of the Year award recognizes the student organization that has excelled throughout the calendar year.
Student Organization Committee of the Year
Elon Feminist for Equality Change and Transformation
Student Organization Committee of the Year award recognizes student organization committees that have excelled and enhanced their organization. These teams should have set and/or continued a vision for their organization and worked diligently to achieve it.
Barbara H. Carlton Outstanding Advisor of the Year
Yuko Miyamoto, advisor of the Elon Pre-Health Society
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.
Gerald Francis Award for Outstanding Faculty Member of the Year
Robert Charest, associate professor of Environmental Studies
The Gerald Francis Outstanding Faculty Member of the Year award is given to one faculty member who exemplifies excellence in teaching and mentoring. The recipient must be a teaching faculty member.
Brian O’Shea Outstanding Service to Students Award
Jackie Allred, administrative assistant for Student Life
The Brian O’Shea Outstanding Service to Students Award is named in honor of Brian Charles O’Shea, a former staff member who served the student body well beyond the duties listed in his job description. The recipient is a university staff member who exemplifies the same commitment to student success.
Janice J Ratliff Student Org Member of the Year
Kate Hartinger ’28, DanceWorks
The Janice J Ratliff Student Org Member of the Year award recognizes an outstanding individual who gives their time and energy to their organization. The recipient exhibits hard work and determination in a role not defined by a leadership position.
Student Organization Officer of the Year
Will Ferris ’25, Sport Management Society
The Student Organization Officer of the Year award recognizes an outstanding individual who dedicates their time and energy to the organization and leads with commitment, character and integrity.
G. Smith Jackson Award for Outstanding Student Mentorship
Noah Flint ’26, Alpha Kappa Psi Business Fraternity
The G. Smith Jackson Award recognizes an undergraduate student who exemplifies excellence in mentoring and support.
Dr. Jana Lynn Patterson Org Newcomer of the Year
Jordyne Lewis ’28, Vice President of Membership and Engagement with the Student Union Board
The Dr. Jana Lynn Patterson Org Newcomer of the Year award honors new student leaders who dedicate their time and energy to their organization and demonstrates potential for making a positive impact.
Dr. J. Earl Danieley Leadership Award
Non-Fraternity/Sorority Community: Lila Noble ’26, Elon Experiential Learning and Outdoor Adventures, French Club, Club Swim
Fraternity/Sorority Community: Natalie Schuver ’25, Alpha Epsilon Phi
Named after one of Elon University’s greatest leaders, the Dr. J. Earl Danieley Leadership Award recognizes exemplary student leaders who may not hold formal titles such as officer or president, but have still demonstrated deep commitment to their organizations. These students dedicate their time and have played a vital role in helping their organizations grow and develop.