NEWS

The Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award

The awards go to one graduating student and one member of the larger Davidson Community who exemplify “the fine spiritual qualities practically applied to daily living, usually going to persons who have given unselfish service without due recognition.”

Student Award: Isabelle Lorah ’23

Isabelle Lorah ’23, the student recipient of the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award

From volunteering as an English tutor for Spanish speakers, to researching and advocating for sustainable environmental solutions, to serving as a senior class gift co-chair, “Isabelle exemplifies qualities of leadership and service.”

“Isabelle assists her peer students in their work without hesitation, handles difficult conversations with empathy and kindness, and finds joy in helping others, whether that’s her fellow team members or concerned alums seeking answers or resources.”

“Isabelle is innovative, dynamic and passionate about the work she does; her service is vast and far-reaching.”

Community Member Award: Motria Procyk and Russian Studies Professor Amanda Ewington (Shared)

Motria Procyk and Professor Amanda Ewington (in absentia) were the community recipients of the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award.

“For their tireless work on behalf of the people of Ukraine since the invasion by Russia.”

The two teamed up to form Davidson 4 Ukraine, an organization comprised of students, faculty, staff and the local community. They held information sessions and fundraisers, and helped Ukrainian families with food, clothing, housing, transportation, and jobs. Their weekly Saturday coffee gatherings offered traumatized refugees a time to socialize with each other and their new American friends.

“The weight of the refugees’ suffering is hard to imagine, yet Motria and Amanda have not flagged in their efforts, even as the war in Ukraine has dragged on for over a year. Their fundraising, consciousness-raising, and direct assistance have enabled our Ukrainian neighbors to build a community in the most unlikely place and to feel the empathy and support of people for whom Ukraine was distant and unknown barely a year ago. Their work really does embody ‘putting service of others before self-interest.’”