Salem College Celebrates Student Leadership at Annual Awards Ceremony
On April 7, the Salem College community gathered in the Corrin Refectory to celebrate one of its most meaningful traditions—the annual Student Leadership Awards Ceremony—to honor students who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, service, and impact throughout the academic year. The evening brought together students, faculty, and staff to recognize leadership in all its forms, from highly visible roles to the quieter, behind-the-scenes contributions that strengthen the Salem community.
“Leadership does not belong to a single title, role, or moment,” shared Dean Jennifer Borrero during the ceremony. “It lives within each of you, and it evolves over time.” Her remarks set the tone for an evening centered on growth, connection, and the collective impact of the student body. From first-year students beginning to find their voice, to sophomores building confidence, juniors stepping fully into leadership, and seniors leaving a lasting legacy, the ceremony reflected the full continuum of leadership at Salem. “Each class represents a different chapter,” Borrero noted, “but together, you tell one powerful story—one of growth, connection, and impact.”
More than 20 awards were presented throughout the evening, highlighting leadership across academics, student organizations, service, the arts, and campus life. Among the honorees, the Salem College Health Initiative—Carrie Reagler, Kailani Goggans, Samantha Smiley, Jessea James, and Haleigh Totten—received the Salem Wellness Inspiration Award for their advocacy and leadership in promoting a culture of wellbeing on campus. Alex Angelini was recognized with the Pierrettes Award for exceptional dedication to the performing arts, while Faith Kiss received the Dance Company Award for her reliability, leadership, and positive impact within the organization. Class Spirit Awards were presented to Avery Bissette, Daisy Ortiz Mendoza, Clare Buchanan, and Cris Battistini for embodying the spirit of Salem within their respective classes.
Additional honors recognized students for their contributions across a wide range of areas. Sky Sykes received the Clark Thompson Community Service Award for her extraordinary commitment to service and leadership both on campus and in the broader community. Melissa Giles was honored with the Meritorious Achievement in the Arts Award for her creativity, dedication, and contributions to the arts at Salem. Awards were also presented for leadership in residential life, admissions, global leadership, student advocacy, multicultural organizations, and student government, reflecting the many ways students contribute to and shape the Salem experience.
A defining theme of the evening was the lasting impact of leadership developed at Salem, both during students’ time on campus and in the years beyond. “At Salem College, leadership is a journey,” Borrero shared. “It begins with the courage to show up, grows through the willingness to engage, and is ultimately defined by the impact you leave behind.” From organizing campus events and leading student organizations to serving the broader community, Salem students continue to demonstrate leadership rooted in purpose, compassion, and action.
The ceremony concluded with a reminder that leadership at Salem is not defined solely by awards, but by the collective strength of the community. “To all our students—whether you received an award tonight or not—your time, energy, courage, and commitment do not go unnoticed,” Borrero said in closing. As the Salem community celebrated the achievements of this year’s honorees, the evening underscored a powerful truth: leadership at Salem is not a destination, but an ongoing journey shaped by each student’s voice, actions, and impact.