More than 900 University of Maryland Eastern Shore students were recognized for their academic accomplishments during the University’s 72nd Honors Convocation at the Ella Fitzgerald Performing Arts Center.
The April 3 event celebrated the achievements of students who received dean’s list (3.5 GPA or higher), departmental distinction (3.7 GPA or higher), departmental honors, and “Awards of Excellence” from their respective schools during the spring and fall of 2024.
“Our honorees have demonstrated that they set the mark for others to follow,” said Dr. Rondall Allen, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at UMES. “They are a testament to UMES’ commitment to high-quality education and student achievement. They are beacons of hope and role models to those who desire to achieve the same kind of academic success.”
Todd Nock, a 2020 graduate and the mayor of Pocomoke City, Maryland, was the event’s keynote speaker. During his address to the audience, he focused on the power and positivity of rain and the growth it provides.
“We are living in a time when our communities, our democracy, and our shared values are weathering some serious storms,” he said. “What we need now more than ever are people who don’t wait for sunshine. We need people who are unafraid to stand in the rain with purpose, courage, and compassion.”
The deans of the four undergraduate schools were also on hand to present the Awards of Excellence, which highlight exemplary qualities including:
- Demonstrated leadership abilities;
- Outstanding academic performance;
- Effective communications skills with fellow students and faculty;
- A high degree of integrity and the ability to work with fellow classmates;
- The potential for continued scholarly work; and
- Evidence of overcoming physical or personal obstacles to earn a degree.
Among the Awards of Excellence winners were Tracy Ewli-Kwakutse (School of Agricultural and Natural Sciences), Melanie Elder (School of Education, Social Sciences, and the Arts), David Martin (School of Pharmacy & Health Professions), and Danny Pham (School of Business and Technology).
Ewli-Kwakutse, a senior human ecology major, was unaware that she was chosen as the top student in her school.
“I feel so grateful and blessed for this honor and thankful for all my teachers who helped me throughout this journey,” she said.
Martin, a junior exercise science major on a clinical track from Jamaica, said a quick glance in the event program was how he discovered the selection. He attributed the recognition from his school to his work ethic.
“I’m dedicated to what I do, and I’ve been supported strongly by the staff of my department,” Martin said. “It’s about balancing time and being on top of everything.”
Elder, a graduating senior and special education major, said she was the “go-to girl” assisting others in need in her major.
“I’m the one bringing dinners to class so we can all study,” she said. “I love doing things like that, and I hope I can influence the classes following behind me.”
