105 Honors College A Scholarly Soirée The Honors College hosts a semi-formal for the honors students. The student leaders of the Honors College began a tradition of hosting an annual semiformal event for honors students and their guests in the spring of 2023. The Honors Student Government Association (HSGA) organized the event for the past two years and planned to host it again in the spring. Junior Olivia Bell, president of the Honors College, noted some of the features of the semi-formal. “Similar to social club semi-formals, it features a shared meal, entertainment, superlative awards and exclusive Honors merch,” Bell said. The semi-formal became one of many examples of how the Honors College fostered community. Alongside weekly events like a designated chapel service, meals, activities and service projects the semiformal was one of the major events for honor’s students, giving them a chance to engage in fellowship. “These opportunities help students connect, build relationships and grow together,” Bell said. Bell played a large role in organizing the semi-formal and mentioned that she hoped the event would continue for years to come as enrollment in the Honors College grew. She also expressed how she looked toward a bright future for the group. “I have envisioned an honors community actively engaged on campus and participating in campus-wide events,” Bell said. Dr. Jim Miller, Dean of the Honors College, talked about the College’s impressive ability to plan events such as the semi-formal. “I’m always impressed by the creativity, work ethic and organizational skills of our Honors student leaders.” Miller said. “The Honors College is a thriving community of scholars striving for excellence in every area of life.” According to Miller, the HSGA began pushing for the semi-formal to be held twice a year, rather than just once annually. Senior Max DeLoach, a student in the Honors College, explained how the College attempted to encourage community engagement through the events they offered. “We attempt to foster that community by regular events, whether they are oriented toward fellowship or service, and special opportunities.” DeLoach noted the importance of other community activities like guest lectures, breakout chapels and honorsspecific classes as part of the diverse offerings that helped students grow together. “I hope that the Honors College continues to grow into an even more active presence on campus,” DeLoach said. Written by Max Thweatt TABLE TALK Students gather at table 13 for a meal at the Honors Cllege semi-formal. Photo courtesy of Jim Miller
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