Student Awards
Delta Kappa Gamma Society Award
Given in recognition of outstanding women graduates who show potential for distinctive service in education. The award is sponsored by the Virginia Iota State Organization.
2023 recipient: Caroline Gilmore ’23
D.L. ‘Pete’ Warren Award
Given to an outstanding graduate student who reflects the highest commitment to academic studies, professional development, and service to others.
2023 recipient: n/a
Ferris and Rosa Williams Accomplishment Award
Given to an undergraduate or graduate student who has overcome special challenges while pursuing a degree at the University of Lynchburg.
2023 recipient: Ava Torres ’23
James C. Fox Award
Given to an outstanding undergraduate in health and physical education, health promotion, and/or sport management who demonstrates a healthy, wellness-oriented lifestyle and is able to demonstrate superior proficiency in the respective discipline.
Given in honor of James C. Fox, who was a professor, coach and department chairperson of the health and physical education department for over three decades.
2023 recipient: n/a
Kate Gillispie Outstanding Student Award
Given to an outstanding undergraduate or graduate student working with or planning to work with primary-aged children (K-3).
2023 recipient: Stevie Brooks ’23
Kenneth R. Garren Leadership Award
Given to an outstanding Doctor of Education in Leadership Studies student.
2023 recipient: n/a
M. Weldon Thompson Award
Given to the undergraduate student in education who most exemplifies potential as an educator and civic leader.
This award is given in honor of M. Weldon Thompson, who served as department chair for 25 years and as dean of graduate studies.
2023 recipient: Aaliyah Osborne ’23
Teacher of Promise Award
Given to five outstanding undergraduate or graduate students who are planning to teach in Virginia in approved licensure programs.
2023 recipients:
- Stevie Brooks ’23
- Monica Chisom ’23
- Aaliyah Osborne ’23
- Raymond Smith ’23
- Mia Sullivan ’23
Veronica ‘Karen’ Ratliff Award
Given to an outstanding undergraduate student who is preparing to teach in the field of history or social studies.
This award is given in memory of Karen Ratliff, ’63, ’73 MEd. Ratliff had a long, distinguished career as a social studies teacher with the Lynchburg City Schools before joining the Lynchburg College faculty, where she was a valued and esteemed instructor in the teacher preparation program.
2023 recipient: Raymond Smith ’23
Alumni Awards
Evelyn P. Bickham Outstanding Undergraduate Alumni Award
Given to an alumnus/a of the undergraduate program in education, who has made outstanding contributions to education and the community.
The award honors Evelyn P. Bickham for her longtime commitment to and service in preparing students for careers in education.
2023 recipient: John “Will” Donnelly ’16
J. Edward Petty Outstanding Graduate Alumni Award
Established to recognize an outstanding alumnus/a of the graduate program in education for distinguished professional work in education and related community service.
This award honors J. Edward Petty, whose active involvement in education focused on preparing students for careers as educational leaders.
2023 recipient: Dr. Kristy Somerville-Midgette ’00, ’05
