Education Council Honors 14 Students at NC State College of Education 2020 Spotlight Awards Ceremony

April 22, 2020 Reah Moore 4-min. read

The NC State College of Education recognized 14 students with awards for their leadership, achievements and dedication to the field of education during its 10th Annual Spotlight Awards ceremony Thursday, April 16. The ceremony was held virtually.

“All of our students within the College of Education work tirelessly to contribute to their communities and the world in meaningful ways,” said Rachel Bland ‘20, 2019-20 Educational Council president and elementary education major. “They strive to become the best that they can be and therefore it’s fitting that during tonight’s occasion we recognize the efforts of these students and their dedication to the college and their respective student organizations.”

This year, the College of Education Community Service Award was renamed in memory of Chantal Warfield, a May 2019 graduate of the NC State College of Education, who died Thursday, Oct. 31, 2019, as a result of a car accident. Warfield’s mother and cousin were present and spoke on behalf of the family.

“Chantal absolutely loved North Carolina State. For someone that didn’t want to go to a big school, she absolutely thrived at North Carolina State,” said Jacqueline Smith, Warfield’s mother. “And again, I can’t thank the college, the College of Education, the entire university for all of your assistance, love, support and outreach over these last several months. I greatly appreciate it. To James [Daniels], the recipient of this year’s award, just remember, tomorrow is not promised, so please continue to let your light shine as you continue to work in the community.”

During the ceremony, the current Education Council executive board, the student ambassadors and the N.C. Teaching Fellows were recognized for their leadership and contributions to the college. And the 2020-21 Education Council board was also announced.

The Education Council, the umbrella organization for all student organizations within the College of Education, presented the awards.

This year’s award winners are listed below.

College of Education Spotlight Awards

College of Education Spirit Award

Aiman Hussein, a junior technology, engineering, and design education major

“It is an honor to be able to represent my department and college with this award. With everything going on, I think it is important to keep the energy, passion and determination that the College of Education has instilled in us alive,” Hussein said. “I can’t wait to get back to Poe Hall next semester as the 2019-2020 spirit award winner!”

Chantal Warfield Community Service Award

James Daniels, a senior middle grades education major

“Getting this award is more than just a high honor. It’s confirmation for me. It’s encouragement to keep pushing and living that legacy,” Daniels said. “It’s a lovely reminder of her work, her love, her support and her being that I will cherish forever as I continue my own service and love for others. I am so grateful and I cannot express how overjoyed I am to receive this honor.”

Rising Leader Award

Meghan Enoch, a sophomore elementary education major

“It is a wonderful feeling to be recognized and appreciated. Reflecting on this award, I am trying to think about what I have done to receive this and the only thing I can really think about is other people and the community I am a part of,” Enoch said. “I don’t think any leader can be successful without others in the picture, so I definitely would not be who I am without every person I’ve met and every experience I’ve encountered. This inspires me to continue to grow in my potential and I hope it inspires others to do the same!”

Kay Sumpter, a junior elementary education major

“I feel honored. I didn’t know people thought so highly of me and the things I do for the College of Education,” Sumpter said. “Many times I don’t even realize the impact I am making. All of the things I do around campus and for the College of Education are things I love to do and love to be involved in. I am so thankful for the award and all of the support I receive from the College of Education as a Rising Leader.”

Golden Apple Future Teacher Award

Katee Finegan, a senior elementary education major

“It is such an amazing feeling to be recognized by the faculty of the College of Education as the Golden Apple Future Teacher,” Finegan said. “Teaching is my passion in life and it makes me so happy to know that others are able to see how enthusiastic I am.”