Hours of study have paid off for the few dozen freshmen who achieved a high grade point average in the previous semester. Hall Council and University Housing joined forces to honor their hard work with the creation of the first Freshmen Academic Success Banquet.

The banquet was the brainchild of University Housing, who proposed the idea to the Hall Council. This stems from the desire to more closely integrate academics and resident life.

“[This has been in the making] since January,” said Taylor Williams, president of Hall Council. “The housing department came up with the idea and brought it to us. So we made it happen. We’re hoping we can hold this every year so we can get more freshmen into knowing what organizations we have to offer.”

The banquet was held on the third floor ballroom of the Student Union. Formally dressed freshmen were seated at white cloth tables and treated to a three course dinner consisting of a salad, the main course and cheesecake with strawberry drizzle and whipped cream, all courtesy of Southeastern Catering.

The night kicked off with a welcome piece by area coordinator Blake Thomas. After him, the keynote speaker, Dean of the College of Education Shirley Jacob, took the podium and gave the students a speech on the importance of academic success and Lion pride. She stressed the importance of emotional support in the often stressful world of college.

Jacob was impressed with the way the evening turned out and especially with how the efforts of Housing were able to come to fruition. She also praised Housing for their rapport with the student community.

“It’s always a pleasure to be in a room with so many young students who have a goal in mind and are working to achieve that goal,” said Jacob. “One of the things they mentioned tonight are all the services available to all our students. I hope our students take advantage of those services that will help them achieve. Also, Housing has worked to be open in communication with the students, so they can find out what students want and need, and meet whatever need that they have.”

After Jacob’s speech and dinner, Williams gave a presentation on the recent activities of the Hall Council. Then, freshmen crossed the stage to receive certificates noting their academic achievement and have their photo taken. Connie Davis, head of auxiliary services, delivered closing remarks.

“I wish everything that life can offer [these freshmen],” said Jacob. “They are so young and so energetic, they have so many dreams. Along the way, they’re going to have some challenges, but in the long run, as long as they stay in line and in focus and want to achieve, they will achieve. They’ve already demonstrated their success.”

For more information on other housing events, contact the housing department at [email protected].