University celebrates first-generation students, establishes Tri-Alpha honor society

The formation of a new honor society at Carson-Newman University celebrates the accomplishments of first-generation college students. Alpha Alpha Alpha (or Tri-Alpha) is recognized at the University thanks to the efforts of C-N’s Student Success Center.

First generation students are students whose parent(s) did not complete a four-year college or university degree. At Carson-Newman, 45% of students are first-generation.

Carson-Newman was awarded the Delta-Psi chapter and Academic Council approved Tri-Alpha students to wear the navy and silver Tri-Alpha cords at commencement ceremonies. Tri-Alpha was founded in 2018 at Moravian University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania.

The University welcomed 31 members during its inaugural induction ceremony in April. Student members are:

Devanshi Barot – Knoxville

Logan Carroll – Mohawk

Kelly Chilcote – Hixson

Sierra Conley – Fletcher, NC

Destiny Gosnell – Greeneville

Tanner Grimmett – Hanover, WV

Carrington Harrelson – Maggie Valley, NC

Lindsay Janik – Talbott

Tanner Kinkead – White Pine

Hannah Little – Pounding Mill, VA

Sarah McGinnis – LaFollette

Stephanie Molina – Rutledge

Parker Moore – Powell

Kari Pierce – Strawberry Plains

Jordan Reilly – Jefferson City

Courtney Rhea – Kingsport

Mackenzie Robinette – Jonesborough

Alyssa Jade Rose – Rutledge

Melody Sera – Morristown

Rachel Shaver – Talbott

Chloe Sparkes-Fudge – Maryville

Alyssa Welch – New Market

Inductees from C-N’s faculty, staff and alumni community are:

Duran Baliff – alumni

Pat Bivens, associate professor of music and director of Military and Veteran Services

Kim Hawkins, dean of C-N’s School of Education and Counseling

Charles A. Fowler, president of Carson-Newman University

Ali Smith, director of Student Activities

Clyde Smith – alumni

Kelli Williams, transfer services librarian and associate professor

Gloria Walker, vice president of Student Services

Julie Wright, administrative assistant, Provost and Academic Affairs.