The newest members of the UM Tassels chapter of Mortar Board gather following their initiation ceremony in Paris-Yates Chapel. Submitted photo
OXFORD, Miss. – For the second year in a row, the University of Mississippi chapter of Mortar Board national college senior honor society took top honors during the national organization’s annual awards ceremony.
The university’s Tassels chapter received the inaugural Outstanding Achievement Award in Chapter Communication and also earned the Project Excellence Award for its alumni newsletter and Books and Bears partnership. As it did last year, the chapter received the Gold Torch Award, which is given to chapters that “exemplify excellence in scholarship, leadership and service.”
“The Tassels Chapter has experienced tremendous growth over the past few years,” said Brent Marsh, assistant vice chancellor for student affairs and dean of students and recipient of an Excellence in Advising Award. “These special awards are a testament to the many contributions of our student leaders, advising team and supportive alumni.”
The chapter was also a finalist for the Ruth Weimer Mount Chapter Excellence Award, which recognizes top chapters for demonstrated excellence in chapter operations, advising, visibility, communications and participation. The chapter’s 2022-23 president, Kelly Li, was a finalist for the Starlington Prize, an award for members who embody the purpose of Mortar Board, exhibit dedication to their chapter and internalize the true meaning of membership.
“I’m so proud of these accomplishments and I am sure that they will continue,” said Jan Farrington, an Ole Miss and Tassels chapter alumna who serves as secretary of the Mortar Board National Foundation board.