Celebrating leadership

The College Writing Program received the John T. McCartney Excellence in Diversity Education Award at the annual Hoff Awards held on May 6. | Photo by JaQuan Alston

Applause erupted in Colton Chapel when a trumpet signaled the start of the annual Hoff Awards ceremony on May 6. Members of the Lafayette community know the distinct sound honors the late Aaron O. Hoff, a member of the Class of 1836 and the College’s first African American student. The annual celebration honors the Hoff legacy by recognizing Lafayette community members’ leadership and service. This year, 274 nominations were submitted for the various award categories. 

“I hope this afternoon leaves you feeling as inspired as I did while reading all your words, said Allison Williams, associate director of student involvement and leadership development. “Even if your nominee doesn’t walk away with an official Hoff Award, I encourage you to share your nomination with them or speak those affirmations aloud. Our Lafayette community and the world beyond benefit when we uplift one another.”

Established in 1991 by the late Pam Brewer, who served as associate dean of students and director of student life, the Aaron O. Hoff Awards specifically honor contributions in leadership and service. Brewer recognized a powerful namesake in the life of Hoff, whose personal character and history became the foundation for these honors.

This year’s award recipients include:

• Administrator of the Year:  Geoff Labe, assistant vice president of operations
• Staff Member of the Year: Chris Stewart, executive assistant, Office of Inclusion 
• John T. McCartney Excellence in Diversity Education Award: The College Writing Program–Bianca Falbo, Gabrielle Kelenyi, and Emma Hetrick
• Superior Teaching Award in Humanities and Social Sciences: Bianca Falbo, director of the College Writing Program and associate professor of English
• Superior Teaching Award in Sciences and Engineering: John Shaw, associate professor, psychology
• Program of the Year Award: LRAJE–Sex Carnival program
• Big 8 Program of the Year Award: “Yes to the Yoni” hosted by Mu Sigma Upsilon Sorority Inc., NIA Sisterhood, and LRAJE
• Commitment to Service Award: Food Recovery Network 
• Student Organization of the Year–Serving their Membership: The Boxing Club 
• Student Organization of the Year–Serving Outside their Membership: LRAJE
• 1974 Award: Abigail Feeley ’28
• World Citizen Award: Bram Halpert ’27
• Mattachine Award: Tim Jarkow ’27 and Isabella Mascarinas ’28
• Robert I. Weiner Interfaith Award: Catherine McCarron ’28 and Sophia Gal ’27 
• Alumni Association Student Volunteer Award: Grace Vale ’27 
• Frances Ocansey-Ahene Spirit of Multiculturalism Award: Jaylene Martinez ’26
• Service Above Self Award: Avery Sichel ’26
• Aaron O. Hoff Unsung Hero Award: Emma Serpi ’28 and Charlotte Carter ’26
• Pamela E. Brewer Emerging Leader Award: Skyler Chouloute ’28 and Clovis Nkamga ’29
• Marquis Award: Sophia Lombardo ’26 and Robert McClosky ’26