Mercer University presented Nicole F. Nather of Fayetteville, Ga., with the Louie D. Newton Award for General Excellence during commencement on May 13 in the University Center.

Mercer University President R. Kirby Godsey presented her with the Louie D. Newton General Excellence Medal — one of two top awards given to Mercer undergraduate students.

Since Nather arrived on campus she has sought out ways to be a teacher and a leader. She served as a workshop leader for Chemistry 111, a resident assistant, a student admissions team member, president of the Tift Scholars Association, an active member and worship leader for Reformed University Fellowship and the resident director for the freshmen women’s dormitory. She is also a member of Kappa Delta Epsilon Honor Society, Phi Kappa Phi National Honor Society and Omicron Delta Kappa, a national leadership honor society.

A graduate of the Holistic Child program, with certifications in both early childhood education and special education, Nather will take on a new challenge upon graduation, serving in Teach for America, a prestigious national program that places the best and brightest young teachers in inner city schools.

The foundation for her success can be found in her commitment to the profession of teaching and her creative ability to solve problems and be part of a team. She has presented with members of the Tift College of Education faculty at two national conferences about programming and partnering within and outside the college.
As a part of her training to become a teacher, Nather completed seven field experiences, honing her classroom skills to complement her formidable body of academic work.

Her professors report that she has shown unwavering dedication in every aspect of her preparation to become a teacher. She is always prepared, taking on each academic task and teaching challenge with insight, creativity and thoroughness, characteristics reflected by her stellar grade point average.

Nather’s hard work has helped prepare her to fulfill her calling in the classroom, and her students will benefit from her dedication.
The Louie D. Newton General Excellence Medal is presented to the graduating student who best exemplifies scholastic achievement, personal integrity and character, service to the campus community and a commitment to spiritual values.

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