On September 17, dozens of alumni, students, faculty, and community members gathered to celebrate the University Honors Program's 40th anniversary during the annual “We’d Be Honored” fundraising banquet. Speakers from across the program's history focused on commemorating those who came before and building a vision for the future.
“Seeing everyone come together shows how Honors has made a difference for so many people," said Dr. Tyler White, the Faculty Director of the program. "People care deeply about our mission to provide an excellent education.”
Founded in 1986 under the direction of Dr. Jim Griesen and Dr. Patrice Berger, the Honors Program has always focused on fostering learning, creativity, and innovation. The inaugural class was 93 students, and 40 years later, the Honors Program has grown to serve over 2,400 students. The Honors Program enriches students' learning experiences through engaging classes, unique experiential learning opportunities, and a dedicated community of students, faculty, and staff.
Dr. Ann Koopmann, who served as the first academic advisor of the Honors Program and later the director of advising and student services, said the event was a chance to see the impact that being part of the Honors community has had on the lives of those involved.
“We can look at our history and see what our alumni are doing, and all of that is because they have some influence from the Honors Program," said Koopmann. "It’s such a wonderful thing.”
The evening featured memories by three Honors alumni, Dr. Robert McEntarffer, class of 1992, Kristen Elias Rowley, class of 2004, and Troy Scheer, class of 2022. “Hearing the stories of other Honors alumni reminded me just how diverse the Honors student body can be,” Sheer commented. “I am grateful for all the support and purpose that has been provided to me by the Honors program over the years. Seeing the growth of the program in just the last few years as given me a great sense of pride.”
Representing the current Honors student body in the program was Amanda Oliver, a fourth-year biological sciences major. Oliver said that the Honors Program offers students the strengths of a large research university combined with a small, supportive community, which was a major factor in her decision-making process when selecting where to attend college.
“Consistently, Honors stands out,” Oliver said, “shaping me in ways that extend beyond academics to mentorship and leadership. It has taught me to seek out different perspectives, challenge myself, and learn to be comfortable in unfamiliar situations.”
Bianca Iannetta, a fourth-year computer engineering and data science major, highlighted how Honors facilitates meaningful connections between students, faculty, and alumni.
“The dinner showcases the strength of our community,” Ianneta said. "It’s a throwback for alumni, but it is also a chance to look forward and build relationships.”
Leah Bates, a fourth-year environmental sustainability major, agreed with the impact of the evening. “Every year this Honors event motivates me to do my best," she said. "I leave it with more inspiration about why I do what I do.”
