Outstanding seniors recognized for service, leadership and academic achievement

Tuesday, May 9, 2017

UNC Charlotte administrators recently honored 11 outstanding seniors for their service and leadership, as well as academic achievement.

Business administration major Caroline Nowell received the Bonnie E. Cone Leadership Award, presented to a member of the graduating class who embodies the spirit of the founder of the University. During her time at UNC Charlotte, Nowell served in the Student Government Association as secretary of academic affairs and vice president. She also participated with various campus organizations and founded the a cappella group the Finer Niners. This group performed at Carillon Assisted Living and Aldersgate Retirement Community. Nowell also volunteered at the Crisis Assistance Ministry and with the Animal Control and Care unit of the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, and she helped with an oral history project in the Washington Heights neighborhood.

Fahn Darkor, student body president for 2016-17, was given the Chuck Lynch Leadership Award. Named for a former vice chancellor of student affairs, the award recognizes student leadership in building relationships and programs while mentoring others. Darkor, who is graduating with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, started his campus leadership career as a freshman representative for the Black Student Union. He also served as an orientation counselor, SOAR student coordinator and SAFE mentor.

Communication studies major McKenzie Walsh received the Noble Niner Award, presented to a student who leads with integrity and exemplifies the values of the Noble Niner: respect, accountability, dignity, honor, compassion, character, nobility and integrity. A graduate of the Emerging Leaders Program, Walsh was an orientation counselor and a Niner tour guide. She also was a leader in Student Alumni Ambassadors and held the position of alumni relations chairperson for Alpha Delta Pi Sorority.

Sociology major Victoria Merriweather received the Provost’s Student Athlete Academic Achievement Award, which recognizes a student who has excelled in the classroom as a member of the Charlotte 49ers. She is on the track and field team.

Adina Houston, a business administration major, was named the recipient of the Derrick Griffith Servant Leader Award. This honor is named for an alumnus who was an active student and community leader who was dedicated to the service and mentorship of others.

Six students, Abrar Al-Shaer, a computer science major; Vincent Cahill, an economics major; Crystal Davidson, an English major; Allison Jones, a public health major; Grant Parker, a political science major; and Justice White, a communication studies major; were presented Chancellor’s Citations for Leadership and Service. The citation, given by Chancellor Philip L. Dubois, recognized this elite group for their outstanding commitment to the campus community.