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Seniors honored with awards during Class Day Crossover

Members of Emory’s undergraduate Class of 2022 gathered May 5 for a new interpretation of a longtime tradition. Class Day Crossover featured a student reception, inspiring remarks from Emory leaders and a keynote speech by former NASA astronaut and retired U.S. Navy Capt. Scott Kelly — the first American astronaut to complete a “year in space” mission of 340 days in 2015.

The event also included the presentation of several awards to students and staff.

Following the program, students processed in the Candlelight Crossover, a tradition symbolizing undergraduate Emory students officially “crossing over” from student to alumni status. Cheered on by faculty, staff and alumni, the candlelit walk took the graduates from the Emory Student Center to McDonough Field, where they enjoyed a cookout, graduation fair and a Coke Toast led by President Gregory L. Fenves.

The following awards were presented:

Lightkeeper of Emory

  • Joy Knowles, Emory College of Arts and Sciences

The Lightkeeper of Emory recognizes a senior who works to make the world a better place without seeking attention or accolades for their actions. The award, established by the Order of Ammon, was first given in 2019.


Brit Katz Senior Appreciation Award

  • Enku Gelaye, senior vice president and dean of Campus Life

Britton Katz, role model, leader and director of residence life, was recognized at the first Class Day celebration in 2003 for his devotion to Emory’s students. The Brit Katz Award is presented in his honor to an administrator or staff member for service as a role model and friend to the senior class, for participation in the Emory community beyond their professional duty, and who is deemed worthy of special recognition.

Boisfeuillet Jones Awards 

  • Ilakkia Anabayan, Emory College of Arts and Sciences
  • Thomas Gabriel Heagy, Goizueta School of Business
  • Maggie O’Mahoney, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing

These medals were established, designed and initially endowed by the D.V.S. Senior Society to honor Boisfeuillet Jones, a D.V.S. alumnus and one of Emory’s most prominent and distinguished graduates. Recipients are selected for their good citizenship, outstanding leadership, devoted service to Emory and the community, academic performance and potential to become a “change agent” in their chosen profession and society at large.


Knights of Emory Spirit Award 

  • Jack Baird, Goizueta School of Business
  • Mekurab Samuel, Emory College of Arts and Sciences

The Knights of Emory Spirit Awards, sponsored by the Paladin Society, recognize two outstanding seniors who are unsung heroes/heroines. Students selected for this honor have made great contributions to the university and promote Emory spirit with passion and selflessness.


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