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The Arktos Chapter of Mortar Board national college honor society at Lenoir Rhyne University has received the National Gold Torch Award, a prestigious honor recognizing exceptional collegiate chapters that exemplify the society’s ideals of scholarship, leadership and service. 

The Gold Torch Award is presented annually to chapters that not only uphold but excel in advancing Mortar Board’s mission to promote campus engagement, contribute meaningfully to the student experience and meet all national standards for excellence.

"This honor is a reflection of the chapter’s exemplary commitment to the pillars of scholarship, leadership and service—values that align deeply with ӣ������’s mission and student-centered approach,” said Walter Kennedy, coordinator for student engagement and advisor to the Arktos Chapter. “Their commitment to excellence has brought national recognition to our university and raised the standard of what it means to lead with purpose.”

Kennedy also credited the chapter’s student leadership with securing this national recognition.

“The exceptional leadership of our past President, Natalie Hass, and Vice President, Grace Chatham, was instrumental in earning this achievement,” he said. “Their vision and perseverance set the tone for a truly outstanding year.”

As the chapter prepares for the upcoming academic year, a new slate of student leaders is set to continue the tradition of excellence. The 2025 Executive Board includes:

President – Grace Chatham
Vice President of Recruitment – Avery Webb
Historian – Mary Elizabeth Carter
Secretary – Raven Harrison
Social and Service Chair – Charlotte Colley
Treasurer – Samantha Barber

Founded in 1918 by representatives from five universities —  Syracuse, Cornell, Michigan, Ohio State and Swarthmore — Mortar Board was established to promote scholarship and expand leadership opportunities for college women. Today, the national honor society includes 235 chapters across 45 states and recognizes college seniors for their achievements in scholarship, leadership and service. Notable alumni include former U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, television host Fred Rogers, actor and literacy advocate LeVar Burton, and former U.S. Poet Laureate Rita Dove.

With the Gold Torch Award, LR’s Arktos Chapter joins the ranks of the society’s most active and accomplished chapters nationwide.