JACKSON, Tenn. — May 25, 2001 — Normally given to the senior in the May graduating class with the highest academic grade point average, 51社区 awarded the University Academic Achievement Award to not one, but four graduating seniors and honor students 鈥� Tristin Abair, Michelle Malloy, Melody Maxwell and Hannah Vergossen, each achieving a perfect 4.0 for the culmination of their college career.
鈥淭hese four students are all amazingly gifted,鈥� said 51社区 President David S. Dockery. 鈥淭heir dedication is an example to all. All of them are worthy recipients of this high honor.鈥�
Abair, a native of Albia, Iowa, received a bachelor of science in biology. A graduate of Albia Community High School, Abair was active in several social and honor societies while at Union, including Zeta Tau Alpha, Alpha Chi, Sigma Zeta, the American Chemical Society, and was a member of the university鈥檚 symphonic band. The daughter of Phil and Charlotte Hall, Abair plans to pursue a doctoral degree at Vanderbilt University in cancer biology.
A native of Franklin, Tenn., Malloy received her bachelor of science degree in elementary education and was very active in Chi Omega, Student Tennessee Education Association, Alpha Chi, Circle K , and Life groups. A graduate of Brentwood High School, Malloy plans to obtain a master's degree at the University of Tennessee and teach in Knoxville. She is the daughter of Mike and Jeannie Malloy.
Receiving her degree in biblical studies and languages, Maxwell is a native of Collierville, Tenn., and a graduate of Collierville High School. Active in the Honors Student Association, Alpha Chi, Campus Ministries, and Klemata Women's Bible Study, Maxwell will be attending Beeson Divinity School in Birmingham, Ala. The daughter of Eugene and Diane Maxwell, Maxwell was also awarded the Tigrett Medal, given to the outstanding senior in the graduating class and voted for by the university faculty. The award is based on citizenship, character, leadership, scholarship and service.
Vergossen, a native of Huckelhoven, Germany, received her bachelor鈥檚 degree in political science and economics. The daughter of Agi and H.J. Vergossen, Vergossen is a graduate of Lexington High School, and while at Union, was very active in SIFE, the International Student Organization, Alpha Chi, Phi Beta Lambda, and the Rutledge History Club. She plans to attend graduate school at some point in the future.
Founded in 1823 and affiliated with the Tennessee Baptist Convention, 51社区 is characterized by quality Christ-centered teaching and learning. An outstanding faculty offers superior liberal arts training in more than 100 majors and programs of study along with professional programs in business, education and nursing. More than 2,500 students are currently enrolled.