Carson-Newman University in Jefferson City held its first annual Insignis scholarship event. Insignis is a Latin word meaning notable or remarkable. The students attending this event had to be nothing less, considering this event was exclusively for students eligible for Carson-Newman’s honors college. On Feb 2-3, all students competed for the Jesse Baker Presidential fellowship which was decided from an alumni interview as well as an essay. Only one student was awarded this “full ride” scholarship. However, the honors college, which hosted the event reportedly plans on awarding other scholarships to students who attended and performed well in the event.
The scholarship weekend began on Feb. 2 with a speech from Carson-Newman’s president, Dr. Charles Fowler. Then after a brief worship service featuring the school’s chapel band and message from Dr. Jonathan Akin, students and their guardians then attended a dinner catered by Carson-Newman’s “Fresh Ideas” catering staff. In attendance were numerous faculty members who are involved in the academic programs of the Carson-Newman honors college. Near the end of this dinner, all students were presented with a challenge coin commemorating the inaugural Insignis scholarship event.
Students returned to the university campus the next morning. The scholarship competition proceeded after a short welcome. The competition consisted of two essays, one of which was to be written before the competition and the other was written on Feb 3. In addition to the essays students interviewed with an alumni and a faculty member. Students were also allowed to roam campus and speak to professors of their chosen disciplines in numerous open houses. Students were also able to tour the honors commons and speak to the president of the honors college, Dr. April Dye.
Overall, the Insignis weekend served as a thorough introduction to the Honors program at Carson-Newman university. Students got a glimpse into the day-to-day life of honors students and faculty.
