PRES RPT 2022 ONYX ANNEAU

POLET HORSLEY Senior

ASHLYN HUNLEY Sophomore

Ariana Hall shakes President Dottie L. King’s hand after being pinned during the Presidential Corps Pinning Ceremony.

just themselves. Members of the Presidential Corps must hold a GPA of 3.0 or higher and display characteristics in leadership, professionalism, humbleness and would be great representatives of the College. “Whether it’s on social media or in person, they are always expected to be a positive representation of SMWC,” Nash explained. Lillie Gendel, current member of the Presidential Corps, learned that she has a unique connection to the organization. “One of the most special moments I have experienced through Presidential Corps is meeting with Peggy McCormick-Platz ’88, ’21G. She is a current member of the Board of Trustees, the president of the Alumni Board of Directors and a former member of Presidential Corps. She informed us that my great aunt, Sister Jeanne Knoerle ’49, actually established Presidential Corps. I wasn’t previously aware of that and it was so special to hear that I have yet another connection with her,” Gendel shared. “It makes me feel as if she is watching over me and guiding me on the right path. It’s so beautiful to me how events that happen before our existence lead us to where we are supposed to be.” The organization participates in College events like Ring Day, Commencement, the President’s Gala, the Light Your Way Christmas Parade, banquets and more. Students also receive opportunities to travel with the President. A unique feature

of the organization is that members have a required uniform that must be worn at official events —a blazer, dress shirt, black slacks and a pin. The pins are presented during the annual pinning ceremony where King pins each member. “I think pinning each member individually really elevates the event itself and it helps the students better understand the achievement of earning a place in the organization. It embraces a true sense of belonging for them,” King shared. Polet Horsley, who serves as president for the Presidential Corps, shared how meaningful it is to be part of such a prestigious organization. “It has been such an extraordinary experience to see myself grow as an individual and have the opportunity to be a leader this year,” she said, “I really love how Presidential Corps provides countless opportunities to make connections with President King, faculty, alumni and our community. The SMWC community is intertwined with everyone on campus, so being able to take those foundational connections from The Woods into the real world is absolutely life changing.”

LAUREN KEITH Junior

MADDIE RANDOLPH Junior

LAUREN RINDONE Sophomore

Were you a member of Presidential Corps? Tell us!

I I Junior

RYLEE WILLIAMSON

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