On May 2, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Saint Mary’s hosted its first annual Student Leadership Awards Ceremony at the Gillespie Conference Center. At the ceremony, six awards were presented to advisors, students and organizations recognized for their involvement and leadership on campus. Attendees were able to submit nominations prior to the event through Belle Tower.
Those who selected the awardees included faculty and staff. Recipients were chosen based on the College’s four core values: learning, community, faith/spirituality and justice.
This new ceremony was inspired by a previous Student Government Association event.
Hannah Francis, director of student involvement, introduced student body president Ashley Chaveriat and vice president Adare Carmody, who reviewed the student organization’s events from throughout the year to aid in determining who would receive the awards.
At the ceremony, College President Katie Conboy explained the ceremony’s importance in recognizing the hard work and dedication of student leaders and advisors.
The first award was the Pursuit of Knowledge Award, given to the SMC chapter of the National Student Speech Language and Hearing Association for its commitment to academic excellence. Francis said the award was meant for academically focused organizations and also highlighted NSSLHA's commitment to service.
The Heart of Community Award, presented to an organization exemplifying school spirit throughout the community with a common purpose, was given to the Saint Mary’s College Dance Team. They were chosen based on their representation of Saint Mary’s at a variety of events.
The Champions of Justice Award was given to Belles for Life for their work in social justice and action.
The Excellence in Advising Award was given to Francis, director of student involvement, who advises the Student Activities Board and other organizations on campus. Upon receiving the award, she said that it was unexpected.
The Pillar of Leadership Award was given to senior Elle Houin for her work in community advocacy and events throughout the year. This work included her leadership in Sisterhood of Service, a volunteering organization, as the president of the club.
Francis shared that she hopes to continue this ceremony as a big celebration and official end for events throughout the year. She hopes it allows students to take a break from their studies and connect with their peers at no-cost.
“Aside from the awards, I know not all of our student organizations may have the funds or take the time to celebrate themselves at the end of the year, so I’m hoping that this can become that end of the year celebration for them … They can just come and get dressed up and enjoy a night of celebrating all of their hard work throughout the year," Francis said.
She said she hopes the event inspires student organizations to pursue further events and initiatives throughout campus to make an impact.
“A lot of what happens on our student campus is because of our student organizations … I do hope that in a way it helps them reach for excellence and really try to be the best organization that they can be. Find opportunities to practice leadership outside of the classroom, find ways to be creative, to make spaces for your fellow Belles and create a sense of community on campus,” Francis said.
