Chowan University’s annual Awards Day Ceremony, held on April 23, 2025, was not just a celebration of excellence but a heartfelt tribute to the spirit of the university community.

Dr. Rosemary Thomas, President of Chowan University, welcomed students with the inspiring reminder, “As Hawks, you will forever soar.” She encouraged them to recognize that the path to achievement is shaped by more than intellect alone—it is built on the powerful connection between thought, action, and character. Echoing the wisdom of Lao Tzu, Dr. Thomas urged students to guard their thoughts, as they become character—and ultimately, destiny. “All of you have impeccable character,” she told them. “You need to harness that so that your destiny will be unlimited.”

Dr. J. Brabban, in his prayer, gave thanks for the intelligence and determination that brought each honoree to this proud moment. “Your achievements are not only a reflection of personal discipline, but a beacon that can inspire others to strive for excellence with integrity, compassion, and service,” he shared.

Provost Dr. John Dilustro expressed appreciation for the dedicated faculty and staff whose mentorship and support helped shape the students being honored. Together, they celebrated achievement, personal integrity, and the unique spirit that makes Chowan University a place where students soar.

Below are the individuals who were recognized for their outstanding commitment to excellence:

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Vera Parker Womble Christian Service Award

Abigail Sutton

Alpha Chi Teacher of the Year Award

Jason Fowler, Associate Professor of Art and Interim Minister

Commencement Marshals

Nia Baskin, Gabe Espiritu, Malachi Ford, Wesley Glover, Lyniah Lee, McKenzie Misenheimer, MarDawn Rawls, Diana Rodriguez, Gracie Ross, Isaiah Sharpe, Elizabeth Waltz

Excellence in Leadership Awards

Advisor: Jill Awuni, International Student Club

Emerging Leader: Blake Tutman, SAAC

Officer: Selene Kentish, International Student Club

President: Trevon Abraham, International Student Club & NAACP

Mission and Vision Cup

Criminal Justice Club

R. Clayton Lewis Outstanding Resident Assistant of the Year Award

Cody Ives, Haley Matthews

Presidential Ambassador Award

Trevon Abraham, Natasha Bailey, Elizabeth Heller, Haley Jensen, Marie Kaissieh, Da’Veion Pittman, Sreshta Puducheri, Abigail Sutton

Most Outstanding Athlete Award

Yasmine Brown (Basketball), Daylan Askew (Basketball)

Cheryl Joy Hobday McElheney Business Award

Hiba Laknit

The Drs. Vaughn and Miles Outstanding Business Student Award

Harry Baker

Dr. DeJesus Outstanding Student in Economics Award

Matthew Davis

Joseph Lee Parker Scholarship

Reed Low

Amy Rozmus Hammond Scholarship

Gabe Espiritu

Dr. Seok Yoon Exercise Science Award

McKenzie Misenheimer

Garth D. Faile Biology and Physical Sciences Faculty Award

Gracie Timken

Mary E. Wood Science Award

Joshua James

Raymond Memorial Science Scholarship

Lyniah Lee

Senior Mathematics Award

Gracie Ross

Outstanding History Student Award

Cameryn Barrow

Charles L. Paul History Award

Abigail Sutton

Romey Peavler Psychology Student of Promise Award

Malachi Ford

Psychology Award

Marie Kaissieh

Outstanding Criminal Justice Student Award

Cody Ives, Carly Brewer

Outstanding Graduate in Studio Art Award

Daisy Edwards

Outstanding Graduate in Graphic Communications Award

Emashara’e Seaberry, Caryn Bowe

Outstanding Graduate in Graphic Design Award

Kayleigh Roberts

Doug Eubank Award

Elias Everett

James Monroe Chamblee Music Award

Samuel Stith

Dr. Charles Bentley Outstanding Teacher Education Student Award

Shya Gambrell

Student Teacher of the Year Award

Haley Lowe

Alpha Lambda Delta Maria Leonard Senior Book Award

Rayn Ross

Chowan University Student Research Conference Awards of Excellence

Biology, Psychology, Sport Science, or Math: Joshua James

Business: Sarai Sanders

Criminal Justice: Alexandra Bishop

Religion, Education, History, Integrative Studies: Haley Lowe

Musical Performance or Composition: Jerry Dovell Perry

Visual Art Display: Mya Turner

Poster Presentation: Emashara’e Seaberry

Order of the Silver Feather

Trevon Abraham, Elizabeth Heller, Danae Mackey, Gracie Ross, Rayn Ross, Sreshta Puducheri

Faith in Your Future Award

Kaleigh Bibbo, Jada Caruthers, Lina Danna

Estelle Thigpen Superior Citizenship Award

Trevon Abraham

Best All-Around Student Award

Abigail Sutton