What's Happening?
Presbyterian College hosted its 2026 Alumni Awards Ceremony during Homecoming Weekend, honoring distinguished graduates for their professional excellence, community leadership, and enduring connection to the college. PC president Dr. Anita Gustafson praised
the honorees for embodying the college's motto, 'While We Live, We Serve,' and demonstrating the lasting impact of a Presbyterian College education. The ceremony recognized several individuals, including Emily Green-Conrad '20 as Outstanding Young Alumna for her work in government relations and public policy, and Leason Horne '21 as Outstanding Young Alumnus for his achievements in law enforcement. The late Irby Hipp '73 and his wife, Fran, received the Mike Turner Award for their dedication to PC athletics. Bret Jones '93 was honored with the Bob Waters Award for his leadership in athletic coaching, and Bruce Ollis '80 received the Mary F. Lehman Service Award for his efforts in reconnecting alumni. Additionally, S.C. Rep. Cody Mitchell '08 received the Dum Vivimus Servimus Award, and retired U.S. Army Col. Jack Zeigler '79 was presented with the Alumni Gold P Award, the college's highest alumni honor.
Why It's Important?
The annual Alumni Awards Ceremony at Presbyterian College is important for several reasons within the context of U.S. higher education and community engagement. It serves to recognize and celebrate the achievements of alumni, showcasing the tangible outcomes of a liberal arts education and inspiring current students. By highlighting successful graduates in diverse fields such as government, law enforcement, athletics, and military service, the college reinforces its value proposition and demonstrates the broad impact its alumni have on society. This event also strengthens the bond between alumni and the institution, fostering a sense of community and encouraging continued support through donations, mentorship, and engagement. Such recognition programs are vital for colleges to maintain a vibrant alumni network, which is crucial for fundraising, student recruitment, and enhancing the institution's overall reputation and influence.
What's Next?
Presbyterian College will continue to engage its alumni through various initiatives, building on the momentum generated by the awards ceremony. The college's Advancement Office will likely leverage the stories of these distinguished alumni to inspire future generations of students and to encourage ongoing financial and volunteer support. Efforts to reconnect alumni, such as those spearheaded by Bruce Ollis '80, are expected to continue, fostering a stronger and more active alumni network. The recognition of alumni in public service and leadership roles may also enhance the college's visibility and influence in state and national conversations. The institution will likely continue to emphasize its core values and the impact of a Presbyterian College education through its ongoing communications and outreach to its alumni community.
Beyond the Headlines
Beyond the immediate recognition, these awards reflect deeper trends in how educational institutions cultivate and leverage their alumni networks. The emphasis on community leadership and service, as highlighted by the college's motto, underscores the broader societal role that higher education aims to play. The diverse achievements of the honorees—from government relations to law enforcement and military service—illustrate the versatility of a liberal arts education in preparing individuals for varied career paths and civic engagement. Furthermore, the recognition of individuals like Irby Hipp '73 for their dedication to athletics points to the integral role sports play in fostering community and loyalty within a college's ecosystem. These ceremonies are not just about celebrating past successes but also about reinforcing the institution's identity and its enduring impact on individuals and society.
