Growing up in a sports-oriented family, Cook’s world in early high school revolved around dancing and basketball. However, for health-related reasons, she was forced to stop participating in both activities. Her interest in sports and determination to stay involved in her high school teams led her to discover sports in other ways besides playing on the court.

“I wanted to be involved in the sports world even though I couldn’t play, so I was the team manager for my school’s women’s soccer and lacrosse teams. I’d still be present at every game, just doing stats instead. That’s when it really clicked for me that this is something I want to do professionally,” she said.

When looking for colleges, Cook was first interested in big schools with a large number of students. Coming from Portland, Maine, she first visited Elon’s campus on Communications Fellows weekend.

While here, she explored the program and had the opportunity to meet with communications and sport management professors who would later become her mentors and strongest allies.

Once on campus, she fell in love with the environment and community of Elon.

“I absolutely loved it. All the professors I met were amazing, and I remember connecting the most with Dr. Shaina Dabbs in the sport management department,” she explained.

For Cook, this visit and her application for the Communications Fellows acted as a turning point in her college search. She committed to Elon because of the community connections she made on her visit and her acceptance into the Communications Fellows Program, but this was just the beginning of her academic success.

Cook was first introduced to the idea of studying and working on Elon’s Charlotte campus by Dabbs, who is also the Women Influencers in Sport (WINS) club advisor. WINS is a student-led on-campus organization that focuses on developing women’s careers in sports and providing them with opportunities to be involved in the sports industry. Her interest was further piqued by the WINSÌęstudent representatives, who presented professional development opportunities in one of her communications classes.

After the presentation, she kept the opportunity at the forefront of her mind, knowing this was an opportunity she wanted to pursue. She later applied to study with Elon Charlotte’s “The Sport Experience,” where she would earn an internship with the Atlantic Coast Conference, one of the “Power 4” conferences in the nation.

“The sport management department really pushes the Elon Charlotte Sport Internship Program for a good reason. I was excited for it, and I knew I had to do it,” she said.

After receiving an email from Dabbs at the beginning of the academic year, Cook was invited to conduct research with the Sports Business Journal, involving WINS.

“It was really cool because they came to us, and this wasn’t something we initiated,” she explained.

The research with the Sports Business Journal involves the WINS, focused on data collection for emerging women’s sports leagues and their use of social media. Her team is working alongside Jenn Azara, the director of women’s sports content for Sports Business Journal, to conduct research that will be presented at the WINS annual forum in November.

Including her work with WINS and the Sports Business Journal, Cook is now involved in three ŸĂŸĂÈÈ research projects. She is especially excited about her newest research involving the Women’s National Basketball Association and its viewer markets and attendance factors with Alex Traugutt, assistant professor of sports management.

Her responsibilities for this project include collecting data on the factors that affect fan attendance, like how many star players are playing and how many rookies are in attendance.

“I’m obsessed with the WNBA,” she said. “And that’s the goal, that’s where I want to work one day.”

Her work in Elon’s Charlotte program has strengthened her professional development and prepared her to further her career in ways she never imagined. She mentions the program has catapulted her forward, opening many opportunities for success in her field: “I feel ahead in ways that I didn’t before.”

“The opportunities are endless, and Elon supports you through it. I never felt like they’ve thrown me into the deep end and said, ‘go for it’, but I feel like they have the perfect balance of supporting us, but not holding our hands through it,” said Cook.

Continuing to push for greatness within the sports communications world, Cook expresses her disbelief for the “life-changing” opportunity she’s earned at Elon and in Charlotte.

“I’m 19 and in Charlotte, working for a Power 4 college conference, and it’s all because I came to Elon for my Communications Fellows Scholarship,” she said. “It felt like someone was believing in me. It’s so meaningful because it feels like someone’s acknowledging that I can go far. They recognize my potential.”

Coming to Elon from Annapolis, Maryland, the small class sizes and opportunities for professor and peer mentorship enticed her to study at Elon. Her decision was led by a need for connection and community on campus, mentioning.

Freshman year, while with her peers in the Business Fellows, she realized others knew their finance education would lead them into a career, but not knowing her own path, she sought guidance from Chris Harris, associate professor of finance and chair of the Department of Finance. After an honest discussion of her likes, dislikes, aspirations and goals, she knew wealth management was the path she wanted to pursue.

“Wealth management is perfect for what I want to do, and it’s very rewarding, very analytical and (focused on) problem-solving, but it also has a client side and personal side, where you get to actually help people and change their lives for the better,” said Orendorff.

Being the president of the Women in Finance club, she faced some initial challenges in her understanding of finance and the ratio of women to men in her classes.

“There’s probably me and three other girls, if I’m lucky,” she said.

She also notes that finance doesn’t come naturally to her, saying, “I have to work a lot harder for it to stick.”

Being a leader in the club, she took these challenges head-on. Not letting the drawbacks get her down, she placed her focus on mentorship.

“The executive team and I are acting as big sisters who have gone through the process,” she said. “I wanted a bigÌęsister in the process, and that’s what I’m trying to offer these girls in the club.ÌęThere’s so much space for us, I want to let women know that.”

Her participation in the Business Fellows also helped challenge her personal growth.

“I came to school with the mindset that I already had 40 best friends in my cohort. That changed everything for me when adjusting to college,” said Orendorff. “These people are ambitious, they’re extremely intelligent, they’re hard working and they push me to be the same. They’re involved in everything, and it’s not a competition, but I’m challenged for the better, and I really love being in a space like that.”

She says that this environment has also pushed her to be more forward-thinking and ambitious towards her goals in her finance career.

All of this growth and opportunity is supported by donors through the Dr. Beth Powell Business Fellows Scholarship and the Presidential Scholarship.

“My scholarships have equipped me to do so much at Elon and have assisted me and encouraged me to be more engaged and involved on campus,” she said.

Her scholarship helped her study abroad in Florence, Italy, where she was able to further her studies and grow in confidence.

“I was able to be more present in the world around me, and that’s an experience that I’ll never take for granted,” she explained. “It was all due to the scholarships that I got, which enabled me to be there.”

Through this experience, Orendorff recognizes the strength and confidence it took to put herself out there and be open to experiences in a country and culture foreign to her.

“I’m proud of how I didn’t doubt myself. I knew I could do it, and I created the steps, and I did so much because I didn’t restrict myself by thinking ‘I can’t do this.’ Instead, I said, ‘I’m going to find a way.’ I grew a lot in my confidence,” she said.

With this strengthened confidence and sense of self, she is inching towards graduation in May. Having been challenged and pushed by her peers and professors, she expresses that her growth mindset has her in the thought pattern of, “What’s the next best thing I need to achieve? What’s the next best thing I should grow towards?”

When asked what she would say to the donors who made her experiences possible, Orendorff expresses that ‘thank you’ will never be enough in her eyes. She hopes donors realize the impact they have.

“Each thing a student accomplishes is because of their support; each donor plays a part in a student’s story,” she said.

Most recently, she served as the Senior Leadership Development Program Manager at UNC-Chapel Hill, where she facilitated professional development sessions for over 3,000 UNC supervisors and leaders. In this role, she also developed enterprise-wide leadership programs, delivered coaching and training rooted in adult learning theory and fostered collaborative partnerships across higher education.

“We are excited to welcome Rochelle to Elon and look forward to her leadership in advancing opportunities for staff and faculty growth across campus,” said Melissa Clodfelter, associate vice president for human resources and chief human resources officer.

OLPD is entering a critical leap forward that Stojnic is uniquely qualified for. As part of the Boldly Elon plan, the office will be designing frameworks and learning pathways for Elon employees as part of the next phase of Navigate Your Career.

“Universities are ecosystems rooted in discovery and growth,” said Stojnic. “Investing in professional development not only builds the capacity and capabilities of the institution but also affirms its purpose as a learning organization.”

Clodfelter added, “Rochelle has done phenomenal work in her career to advance learning opportunities for employees, and we are excited for her to leverage her experience and skills as we usher in the next phase of Navigate Your Career and other initiatives.”

As Stojnic weighed this next chapter of her career, she said she was struck by Elon’s intentionality, clear goals and strategy and the investment employees and students make towards the culture.

“It’s the kind of environment where people are encouraged to be ambitious and curious, but to also enjoy the work along the way,” she said. “I look forward to finding opportunities to help faculty and staff in any role feel ready to lead and to grow in ways that feel both practical and meaningful.”

The search committee for this role included:

• Dhvani Toprani (Chair), assistant director of learning and design support
• Chris Leupold, professor of psychology
• Jonathan McElderry, dean of student inclusive excellence
• Jennifer Platania, associate provost for academic affairs
• Jackie Riffle, academic affairs chief of staff
• Mary DeFriest, assistant athletics director of marketing and fan engagement
• TJ Bowie, director of employee relations and culture

Chris Leupold has served as the interim director for OLPD during the committee search, and Shannon Stucker, training and development assistant, has played a monumental role in continuing OLPD programming during this process.

More than 35 early-career staff members from across ŸĂŸĂÈÈ gathered in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, this summer to launch their yearlong leadership journey through the Elon Early Career Institute (EECI).

Held at the Paul J. Rizzo Conference Center, the two-day retreat marked the official launch of the 2025-26 cohort experience. Designed to cultivate leadership and career advancement in higher education, the program emphasizes core competencies such as decision-making, relationship-building, and an understanding of university culture.

Led by EECI program coordinators Amber Moser, director of internships in the School of Communications; Lauren Carriker, associate director of admissions; and Mary Southern, project manager for strategic initiatives and partnerships, the retreat offered a dynamic blend of interactive sessions, community-building activities, and space for personal reflection.

“After months of preparing and connecting with leaders on campus to develop a robust agenda, it was exciting to witness the kickoff to the 2025-2026 EECI program,” Moser said. “The retreat marked a strong start for EECI and an opportunity for our colleagues to explore their leadership potential, build community, and engage with each other intentionally. Their energy and openness set the tone for the year ahead, and I am grateful to be part of it.”

Retreat highlights

Day One: Leadership and University Culture

The retreat began with a team-building “Show and Share” activity, inviting participants to connect through meaningful personal items and stories. This opening session established a sense of community and purpose that carried through the day.

Participants then engaged in sessions on leadership, institutional decision-making, and values alignment. Jim Piatt, senior vice president for advancement and external affairs, provided insight into Elon’s leadership culture. Patrick Noltemeyer, chief of staff and secretary to the Board of Trustees, offered a broader perspective on university governance. A “Values Inventory” exercise further encouraged participants to reflect on how their personal and professional values align with Elon’s mission.

The day concluded with a networking dinner at Meadowmont Grill, offering an informal setting for cross-departmental relationship-building.

Day Two: Identity, Confidence and Equity

The second day opened with a wellness walk and transitioned into sessions focused on identity in the workplace, imposter syndrome, and building career confidence. Melissa Clodfelter, associate vice president for human resources and chief human resources officer, led a thoughtful discussion on leadership and the staff experience.

An afternoon session on shared equity leadership –Ìęfacilitated by Randy Williams, vice president for inclusive excellence; Carla Fullwood, director of inclusive excellence education and development; and Mat Gendle, professor of psychology –Ìęencouraged participants to reflect on their roles in fostering a more inclusive university environment.

The retreat wrapped with a discussion on mentorship and shared governance, featuring insights from Emily Krechel, director of new student programs and chair of the Staff Advisory Council.

Throughout both days, participants engaged in reflective and interactive elements including Post-it note exercises, mindfulness bingo, and small-group discussions with facilitators. These moments helped establish meaningful connections and set the tone for a year of learning and growth.

To learn more about the Elon Early Career Institute, visit the EECI website.

The 2025-26 cohort of Elon’s Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) launched their yearlong leadership journey with a dynamic two-day summer retreat on June 17 and 18. Centered on the theme “Learning Toward: Leadership & Followship,” the retreat brought together mid-level professionals from across the university to explore core leadership competencies, deepen their understanding of higher education culture, and foster a strong sense of community among participants.

Held over two full days, the retreat offered a thoughtfully curated agenda of professional development sessions, team-building activities and strategic planning. It also marked the official start of a transformative experience designed to support mid-level staff as they grow in their roles and contribute meaningfully to Elon’s mission.

The objective of the Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) is toÌęprovide resources, individual and group professional development and a supportive cohort of colleagues for 16-20 mid-level staff members across the university. MLPI learning and development focuses on topics relevant to participants’ current roles as well as the development of strategies for future professional growth and advancement.

A Powerful Launch: Day One

The retreat began with a warm welcome from MLPI coordinators Vicki Blocker and Nita Skillman, who introduced the cohort to the purpose and structure of the MLPI program. The group also had the opportunity to meet Melissa Clodfelter, associate vice president for Human Resources and chief human resources officer, who shared her vision for leadership development at Elon.

The morning continued with a strategic overview of the university, as Jim Piatt, senior vice president for advancement and external affairs, presented “Elon from a 50,000-Foot View,” helping participants understand the broader institutional context in which they lead. Lauren Bosselait followed with an engaging session focused on uncovering and utilizing personal strengths as a foundation for leadership.

After a collegial lunch, the afternoon turned toward introducing key competencies that will guide the cohort’s learning throughout the academic year. Participants explored five essential focus areas:

• University Decision-Making, Politics, and Culture (facilitated by Kirsten Carrier)
• Wellness and Well-Being (facilitated by Charlotte Williams)
• Inclusive Excellence (facilitated by Kathy Ziga)
• Mentoring (facilitated by Deandra Little)
• Leadership and Followship (faciliated Pat Donohue)

These introductions set the stage for deeper engagement on the second day. Before wrapping up, participants took part in an interactive team-building activity led by Vicki and Nita, sparking collaboration and fun. The day concluded with a relaxed social featuring light appetizers and refreshments, an opportunity for the new cohort to connect informally and begin building lasting professional relationships.

The 2025-26 cohort of Elon’s Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) launched their yearlong leadership journey with a two-day summer retreat on June 17 and 18.

The 2025-26 cohort of Elon’s Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) launched their yearlong leadership journey with a two-day summer retreat on June 17 and 18.

The 2025-26 cohort of Elon’s Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) launched their yearlong leadership journey with a two-day summer retreat on June 17 and 18.

The 2025-26 cohort of Elon’s Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) launched their yearlong leadership journey with a two-day summer retreat on June 17 and 18.

The 2025-26 cohort of Elon’s Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) launched their yearlong leadership journey with a two-day summer retreat on June 17 and 18.

The 2025-26 cohort of Elon’s Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) launched their yearlong leadership journey with a two-day summer retreat on June 17 and 18.

The 2025-26 cohort of Elon’s Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) launched their yearlong leadership journey with a two-day summer retreat on June 17 and 18.

The 2025-26 cohort of Elon’s Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) launched their yearlong leadership journey with a two-day summer retreat on June 17 and 18.

The 2025-26 cohort of Elon’s Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) launched their yearlong leadership journey with a two-day summer retreat on June 17 and 18.

The 2025-26 cohort of Elon’s Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) launched their yearlong leadership journey with a two-day summer retreat on June 17 and 18.

The 2025-26 cohort of Elon’s Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) launched their yearlong leadership journey with a two-day summer retreat on June 17 and 18.

The 2025-26 cohort of Elon’s Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) launched their yearlong leadership journey with a two-day summer retreat on June 17 and 18.

The 2025-26 cohort of Elon’s Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) launched their yearlong leadership journey with a two-day summer retreat on June 17 and 18.

The 2025-26 cohort of Elon’s Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) launched their yearlong leadership journey with a two-day summer retreat on June 17 and 18.

The 2025-26 cohort of Elon’s Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) launched their yearlong leadership journey with a two-day summer retreat on June 17 and 18.

The 2025-26 cohort of Elon’s Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) launched their yearlong leadership journey with a two-day summer retreat on June 17 and 18.

The 2025-26 cohort of Elon’s Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) launched their yearlong leadership journey with a two-day summer retreat on June 17 and 18.

The 2025-26 cohort of Elon’s Mid-Level Professionals Institute (MLPI) launched their yearlong leadership journey with a two-day summer retreat on June 17 and 18.

Deep Dives and Looking Ahead: Day Two

Day two built on the momentum of the first, starting with a reflective debrief and transitioning into a series of deep-dive sessions on each of the five core competencies. With each topic facilitated by the respective expert, participants engaged in thoughtful discussions, self-assessment and practical exercises designed to enhance their leadership practice.

Highlights included:

• Understanding the nuances of university decision-making and organizational politics
• Prioritizing wellness and self-care as a component of sustainable leadership
• Advancing inclusive excellence and equity-minded leadership strategies
• Embracing the importance of mentorship in career development
• Exploring the dynamic between leadership and followship and how both are critical in higher education

The retreat also offered ample time for small group formation and planning, helping to structure peer learning and support throughout the coming year. The retreat concluded with a session on administrative planning, key dates and “what’s next” for the MLPI journey.

A Cohort Poised for Impact

The energy, engagement and camaraderie evident throughout the retreat reflected the enthusiasm of this year’s MLPI cohort. As they prepare to dive into a year of development and discovery, participants leave the retreat grounded in shared purpose, equipped with new tools, and connected to a cross-campus network of peers.

Elon’s commitment to cultivating leadership at every level is exemplified through MLPI—and the 2025-26 cohort is off to an exceptional start.

To learn more about the Mid-Level Professionals Institute, visit the website.

“Those financial investments in my college education helped me complete my academic programs and allowed for some of the most life-changing international and domestic study abroad opportunities I participated in,” said Biggs.

Among these opportunities was a transformative Winter Term in Ghana. This opportunity connected her to her African heritage, igniting her passion for service and her desire to uplift communities through her work.

“A family scholarship made it possible for me to have a signature ‘Elon study abroad experience’ by spending the entire 2014 Winter Term in Ghana as part of a 14-student performing arts and history tour of the West African nation led by former Elon dance professor Jason Aryeh,” explained Biggs.

Elon’s commitment to community engagement resonated deeply with Biggs, especially through the Isabella Cannon Leadership Fellows Program.ÌęThe program instilled in her the importance of using one’s unique skills and networks to bring about meaningful change.

“The mantra of ‘think globally and act locally’ has framed much of my life’s work,” said Biggs. “When we all act locally, the ripple effect can be felt on a global scale. Every generation can advance our local and global society if we each play our unique parts.”

The ideas she took out of the Leadership Fellows program inspired her life of service to others. Biggs’ career began with her early passion for the arts. Initially aspiring to join a professional dance company, but her time at Elon shifted her focus toward arts administration.

“It was at Elon that I started to become fascinated with the business aspect of the arts, the behind-the-scenes foundation that makes all of our access to the arts possible,” says Biggs.

By double-majoring in arts administration and dance choreography, Biggs laid the groundwork for a career that combined her love for the arts with her commitment to community service.

After graduating, she entered the nonprofit sector, working at the McCarter Theatre Center in Princeton, New Jersey, where she developed her fundraising and development skills. This role solidified her belief in the power of the arts to bring people together. Biggs acknowledges that some of her skill set is largely thanks to the classes and experiences she had during her time at Elon.

“I credit a lot of my confidence with public speaking and taking command of a meeting room, giving presentations and overall aspects of leadership in the workspace to countless hours spent in the bright lights of McCrary Stage at Elon,” she explained.

Biggs continued to expand her expertise through positions in notable arts organizations, including The Public Theater in New York City. Throughout her transitions, her dedication to servant leadership remained evident. Biggs had several different careers, but throughout them, she noticed the strength of Elon and the success of the alumni.

“When I encounter fellow Elon alumni in a professional or personal setting, the environment is elevated and shifts – we know to expect the best and we naturally strive for greatness,” she said.

In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, Biggs seized the opportunity to pivot her career toward the corporate sector. Seeking to reconceptualize her relationship with the arts, positioning it as a cherished aspect of her life rather than her sole profession.

“I knew it was time for a career shift because I wanted to reach back and support the nonprofit sector that laid the foundation for my career,” she said.

This decision led her to earn a master’s degree in education policy and leadership at American University in Washington, D.C. Now,Ìęshe is a proud member of the Aon business community, a global corporation dedicated to social responsibility. The company provides insurance, risk management and other financial services to companies and communities around the world. This switch to corporate America was a new but exciting challenge to undertake, but Biggs knew that she wouldn’t be leaving her past of social service behind.

“I love that Aon has values and a mission rooted in the betterment of society through the strengthening and protection of communities,” says Biggs.

Her previous nonprofit experience allows her to contribute meaningfully to corporate social responsibility initiatives, blending her professional responsibilities with her commitment to community enhancement.

“Though I am now part of corporate America, I contribute much of my life’s success to the performing arts and to the training I received in the dance and arts administration programs at Elon,” she explained.

She remains committed to her role as a servant leader in her community, even after relocating to New York City: “The opportunities to contribute as a servant leader are endless in there,” she said.

Biggs has taught Zumba and dance fitness classes in East Harlem, promoting health and wellness in her new community. Her involvement continues through her work with the Sullivan Foundation, which was created to support and honor service-oriented college students and faculty. Biggs received the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award in 2015.

“To be recognized not just for academic achievements, but for service and leadership—it felt like the perfect end to my time at Elon,” Biggs reflected.

The award is given out to students with exemplary acts in leadership, service, and a commitment to others. Biggs continues to serve as a leader for the organization, including as a masterclass coach, a member of the alumni advisory council and a local alumni community organizer.

“My time at Elon instilled in me the importance of community engagement and effective leadership,” said Biggs. “Regardless of where my career has taken me, the focal point has and will always be community development and the strengthening of society.”

Her journey reflects the profound impact of ŸĂŸĂÈÈ on her commitment to
servant leadership, while her multifaceted roles—spanning the arts, nonprofit, and corporate sectors—demonstrate her dedication to fostering positive change in her community. As she continues to inspire others through her various endeavors, she remains a shining example of how education can fuel a lifelong desire to give back and create a lasting impact.

The initiative arose from Elon’s Multifaith Strategic Plan, which called on the university to develop “opportunities for employees, alumni, adult, and professional learners to develop religious literacy competencies.” When CSRCS Director Brian Pennington went to look at how other DEI and bias training programs might have developed effective ways of offering those opportunities, he discovered that “few, it seems, had thought of religious diversity in the workplace as a professional or human resources issue worthy of attention in its own right.”

When he took that discovery to Jack Rodenfels, director of professional and continuing studies at Elon, they agreed that Elon was well-positioned to fill that gap. This fall, ElonNext released , an online training course addressing the need and importance of understanding and respecting diverse faith perspectives in today’s workplace.

According to Pennington, the real talent behind the course, however, was Helen Orr, assistant professor of religious studies, who wrote the scripts for the course and developed the supporting materials and activities. Orr is the online course instructor, leading the trainee through modules on dress and diet in the workplace, the workplace calendar, conflict in the workplace and stereotypes. Video Producer Andrew Bacon and Instructional Technologist Becky Kloepfer provided technical support and guidance.

Thanks to their work, professionals around the country will now have an opportunity to gain valuable insights and skills that enhance their understanding of cultural and spiritual diversity, preparing them to engage confidently with religious diversity in their work environments.

Elon will recognize four alumni for their leadership, accomplishments and service during this year’s Distinguished Alumni Awards ceremony on April 26 at The Inn at Elon. Award recipients include:

Sam Troy ’67Ìę

Distinguished Alumnus of the Year Award

This award is presented to an alumnus who has distinguished himself in a profession and in the community and brought honor to Elon.

An English major, Sam Troy currently serves as executive-in-residence at the Bryan School of Business and Economics at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where his primary focus has been conducting research on and promoting the North Carolina wine industry. He is the epitome of an engaged alumnus, faithfully supporting the university with a gift every year since he graduated as well as volunteering his time.

Kristen Yntema ’95Ìę

Distinguished Alumna of the Year AwardÌęÌę

Awarded to an alumna who has distinguished herself in a profession and in the community and brought honor to Elon.Ìę

A double major in business administration and public administration, Kristen Yntema is the president and CEO of AuthoraCare Collective, one of the largest nonprofit hospice and palliative care organizations in central North Carolina. Triad Business Journal recognized Kristen as one of its 40 Leaders Under 40 in 2011, one of its Outstanding Women in Business in 2016 and a Most Admired CEO in 2019.

Carol Brown ’68Ìę

Distinguished Service to Elon AwardÌęÌęÌę

Awarded to an organization, business, foundation, orindividual who has demonstrated outstanding serviceÌęthat promotes the advancement of Elon.Ìę

A mathematics major, Carol Lupinacci Brown spent 30 years with the Christina School District in Delaware as a middle and high school teacher, building administrator and central office administrator. All the while, Carol has maintained a meaningful connection with Elon, serving as an Elon Alumni Board member and previously served as an Alumni 360 volunteer, peer agent and class reunion volunteer. In 2019, she made an estate gift and created an Elon Experiences scholarship in 2023.

Erica Ayala ’08Ìę

Distinguished Alumni Service AwardÌęÌęÌę

Awarded to an alumnus or alumna who has given extraordinary service to his or her community.Ìę

A political science major, Erica Ayala joined CBS Sports in 2023 as a writer and on-air analyst, primarily covering WNBA, NCAA Women’s Basketball and NHL stories. She is considered the only Black/Latina broadcaster to call an NHL game. Outside of her career, Erica has volunteered her time with the Children’s Defense Fund and Westchester Children’s Association, holding multiple roles to advance child advocacy and social action. In 2017 New York Nonprofit Media recognized her as a “40 Under 40 Rising Star” in the nonprofit world.

The Office of Alumni Engagement and the Young Alumni Council have announced the 2024 Top 10 Under 10Ìęaward recipients, who will be celebrated during an April 27 ceremony in Snow Family Grand Atrium.

These 10 accomplished alumni from the past decade have achieved professional success, continuously work to better their communities and serve as loyal alumni role models. Award recipients include:

Sarah Alger ’17Ìę

Information Officer at USAID – Bureau for Humanitarian AssistanceÌę

Sarah Alger graduated with a degree in public health and for her ŸĂŸĂÈÈ research, Sarah collaborated with Dr. Cynthia Fair to publish the first-known study on the needs of internationally adopted children with HIV in the United States.

After spending a year in Uganda serving as a Strategic Information Fellow with the CDC Global Health Fellowship Program, Sarah joined USAID Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance as a full-time Information Officer.

Katherine Blunt ’15Ìę

Energy Reporter at the Wall Street Journa±ôÌę

Katherine Blunt earned her degree in journalism, with a focus on print and online news. Katie, along with two colleagues from the Houston office of the Wall Street Journal, investigated the massive wildfire that engulfed Northern California due to faulty infrastructure from power provider Pacific Gas & Electric.

Katie’s work on the disaster was the foundation for her 2022 book,ÌęCalifornia Burning: The Fall of Pacific Gas and Electric – and What It Means for America’s Power Grid.

Sean Burke ’14Ìę

Multifamily Debt Originations at PGIM Real EstateÌę

Sean Burke graduated with a bachelor’s degree in finance and joined PGIM in 2017, assisting with the structuring of more than $2.7B in debt financing transactions.

In his current role as a Loan Officer, he is responsible for originating and structuring multifamily affordable and conventional loans. Sean’s passion for affordable housing stems from his time at Elon when he volunteered with the Odyssey Scholars in the Mississippi Delta.

Ashley Braun Darling ’13 & Tom Darling ’13Ìę

Co-Founders of Darling WinesÌę

Ashley Braun Darling earned her degree in media arts and entertainment, specializing in broadcast and news media. Tom Darling graduated with a bachelor’s in sport and event management.

In 2017, Ashley and Tom launched Darling Wines. Beginning with a Syrah, Darling Wines has since added a Pinot Noir and a Chardonnay to their listings. Bottles can be enjoyed at several Michelin-starred restaurants as well as local favorites and retail wine shops in the Bay area.

Peter Fox ’14Ìę

Vice President at The Blackstone GroupÌę

Peter Fox earned a degree in finance and during his final year at Elon, Peter was part of a team that qualified as state finalists in the 2014 CFA Institute Research Challenge.

Since graduating, Peter has steadily advanced his career in investment banking. Beginning as an analyst with the Corporate Finance Group at Credit Suisse, he progressed into associate and senior associate roles at Coller Capital before joining the team at Blackstone in 2021.

Phylicia Pearl Mpasi ’15Ìę

Actress, currently inÌęThe Color PurpleÌę

Phylicia Pearl Mpasi is a graduate of Elon’s musical theatre program and before graduating, she was cast as a vocal swing and the understudy for Shenzi in “The Lion King.”ÌęIn May 2023, she celebrated the premiere ofÌęGrease: Rise of the Pink LadiesÌęfor Paramount+ working as a writer for the first season.

Most recently, Phylicia Pearl stars as young Celie in the remake ofÌęThe Color Purple,Ìęproduced by Oprah Winfrey and Steven Spielberg.

Oscar Miranda Tapia ’17

PhD Candidate in Educational Leadership, Policy, and Human Development at NC State

Oscar Miranda Tapia earned a degree in psychologyÌęand spent a year as a Community Impact Fellow with Alamance Achieves before earning his master’s degree in education from Harvard University in 2019. Oscar returned to his alma mater to help launch The First-Generation Initiative through his role as Assistant Director of First-Generation Student Support Services.

This meaningful work is highlighted in the book that Oscar recently co-authored with President Emeritus Leo M. Lambert, Assistant Provost Peter Felten, and Isis Artze-Vega in August 2023,ÌęConnections are Everything: A College Student’s Guide to Relationship Education.

Dmitri Thompson ’18Ìę

CEO at Rise Media, Co-founder of Rise League Inc.Ìę

Dmitri Thompson is a former captain of Elon’s Division I Men’s Basketball team who graduated with a degree in sport and event management and ended his career as one of the best scorers in program history. Following graduation, he spent two years playing professional basketball in Cyprus. While playing abroad, Dmitri and his brother, Dwight, sold shirts to raise money for the Boys & Girls Club, creating RISE League.In November 2023, they received a $75K grant from Dick’s Sporting Goods.

Most recently, the Thompson brothers started Rise Media, a full-service creative agency that offers photography, videography, editing and Photoshop services for businesses and the public.

Erin Wilkins ’18Ìę

Manager, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Goodwin Law firmÌę

Erin Wilkins earned a degree in public health studies before going on to receive an MA in education and human development from The George Washington University.

In a short span of time, Erin has built a distinguished career in the legal industry and currently serves as the Manager of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the law firm, Goodwin. As a testament to her expertise in DEI, Erin has been invited to speak at the National Association for Law Placement Annual Education Conference in Boston, MA, in 2024.

To read more about this year’s alumni award winners, visit the Alumni Awards page here and for more information about this year’s awards, please contact Hannah Hattori, Assistant Director of Alumni Engagement—Special Events, at hhattori@elon.edu.

This summer, there are three opportunities to engage in reflection and dialogue about the contemporary issues dealing with race, racism, racial inequity at local, regional, and national levels.

Unpacking Multiple Perspectives on Race

Thursday, June 8, 12:15-1:30 p.m. – Lakeside Meeting Rooms

Reflection and discussion prompt:Ìę What are contemporary events that inform our perspectives on race, racism, racial inequity?
Register for Unpacking Multiple Perspectives on Race

Challenges Talking about Race (with AER Institute)

Tuesday, June 13, 12:15-1:30 p.m. – Lakeside Meeting Rooms

Reflection and discussion prompt:Ìę What are challenges talking or ŸĂŸĂÈÈ about race in relation to what is happening in society?
Register for Challenges Talking about Race

Raising our Race Consciousness

Tuesday, June 20, 12:15-1:30 p.m. – McCoy Commons, Oaks 212

Reflection and discussion prompt: What can we do to raise our race consciousness at Elon?
Register for Raising our Race Consciousness

After you register, you will receive a registration confirmation email. Please save the event confirmation item to your calendar.

If you have any questions, please contact Director of Inclusive Excellence Education and Development Carla Fullwood at cfullwood@elon.edu, or Assistant Dean of ŸĂŸĂÈÈ/Director of the Center for Race, Ethnicity and Diversity Education Sylvia Muñoz at munozs@elon.edu.

The Office of Human Resources and the Office of Inclusive Excellence Education and Development offersÌęThe Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging (DIB)Ìęmodules for ŸĂŸĂÈÈ faculty and staff to explore concepts and strategies that build the necessary skills to actively contribute to an Inclusive Excellence work and learning culture.

You canÌęaccess the Ìęby logging in using Elon credentials and select “start.” You can also find the link on theÌęInclusive Excellence Faculty and Staff Education & DevelopmentÌępage or theÌęHuman Resources Professional Development & TrainingÌępage.

As a follow-up, Human Resources and the Office of Inclusive Excellence Education and Development are hostingÌęDIB CommunityÌęof PracticeÌęsessions, facilitated conversations for deeper exploration of content and opportunity to create developmental action items based on the exposure and learning from the DIB modules.

After completing the modules consider signing up for one of the next DIB Community of Practice sessions below:

Thursday, June 15; noon – 1:30pmÌęin ScharÌęBuilding 212. Lunch is provided.

Dates for 2023-24 DIB Community of Practice sessions will be announced in August.ÌęPlease contact Carla Fullwood (cfullwood@elon.edu) or TJ Bowie (tbowie@elon.edu) with questions.

Starting this March of 2023, one more ERG offers faculty and staff a supportive space to connect: the Global Connections ERG.

Co-chaired by Titch Madzima (associate professor and department chair of Exercise Science, from Zimbabwe) and Sylvia Muñoz (assistant dean of students and director of the Center for Race, Ethnicity and Diversity Education [CREDE], from Costa Rica), this ERG’s main purpose is to connect international faculty and staff at Elon. However, you don’t have to be from an international origin to be part of this group. If your ŸĂŸĂÈÈ, research, service or other work areas are related to international aspects and places, you are welcome to join!

As its description indicates, the Global Connections ERG “offers a space for community building and professional development to Elon’s international faculty/staff and those interested in global engagement. The group sponsors community and professional development and educational and networking events.” Those interested in joining this ERG can email Sylvia Muñoz at munozs@elon.edu to let her know.

The Global Connections ERG had its first meeting on March 9 at The Oak House. If you could not be there, no problem. We are eager to welcome you to the group!