Elon University Student Life Team Honored for Impact Year

Elon University's Division of Student Life gathered on May 13 to celebrate the people who transform student experiences every single day.

Vice President Jon Dooley opened the annual celebration by emphasizing what truly matters in higher education. "We educate students and we transform lives," he told the assembled professionals.

The event recognized staff across multiple categories, from mentoring excellence to innovation in student services. Destiny Payne from New Student Programs won the Mentoring Award for exceptional student development work, while AK Krauss from the Gender & LGBTQIA Center earned the Innovation Award for developing unique support programs.

The Academic Partnership Award went to Boaz Avraham-Katz from the Truitt Center for integrating classroom learning with real-world experiences. Emily Krechel and the Student Care & Outreach team received the Inclusive Excellence Award for advancing campus diversity and belonging.

The Ripple Effect

The celebration highlighted achievements that extend far beyond individual awards. The division launched a new five-year strategic plan designed to enhance student support for years to come.

Elon also signed the Okanagan Charter, committing to campus-wide health and wellbeing initiatives. The university re-energized its Hazing Prevention Coalition and expanded resources specifically for graduate students.

For the sixth consecutive year, Elon earned recognition as one of the most promising places to work in student affairs. That reputation helps attract talented professionals who prioritize student transformation over transaction.

Dooley reminded his team that relationships form the foundation of meaningful education. "The relationships we build with students and with each other are our greatest assets," he said.

The event also honored service milestones, with Jana Lynn Patterson celebrating 40 years dedicated to student wellbeing. Multiple staff members reached their five, ten, fifteen, and twenty-year marks, demonstrating the lasting commitment professionals make to student success.

Provost Rebecca Kohn and Vice President Emeritus Smith Jackson attended as special guests, underscoring how student life connects to the university's broader academic mission.

Catherine Little received the Administrative Professional Award for exceptional support work, while Ivie Shelton earned the New Professional Award in just her second year at Elon. Their recognition shows impact matters more than tenure.

When universities invest in the people who invest in students, everyone wins.