2009 ODK Teaching Award: Ann M. Ingram

The 2009 recipient of the ODK Teaching award has perhaps one of the brightest faces you’ll see on this campus.  She is one of those rare professors who is able to integrate her professional research interests with the rest of her life.  And she does it beautifully.  She is deeply involved in environmental sustainability projects in the Davidson area and was instrumental in creating the college’s inaugural environmental studies program this year.  Her passion for the outdoors one student describes as “relentless – maybe even bordering on bizarre.”  But what is even more admirable about this year’s ODK teaching award recipient is her commitment to building relationships – with students, among faculty, and between the college and the community.  For her tireless effort in making Davidson a better place to live and learn, Omicron Delta Kappa awards Professor of English Annie Ingram with the 2009 Teaching Award.

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2009 ODK Staff Award: Robert Clendenin Spach

Davidson is blessed with a staff that makes a daily effort to care for the students here.  This afternoon we would like to recognize someone who embodies that spirit of generosity.  The 2009 recipient of the ODK staff award has given tirelessly of himself to the Davidson College community.  A prominent face in the religious life of this campus, he maintains a firm commitment to his own reformed Presbyterian tradition while also showing a profound respect – might I even say admiration – for other expressions of religious faith.  He has been an inspiration for many students in seeking answers to the hard questions about life and spirituality.  He contributes substantially to the intellectual openness and curiosity that makes Davidson so rich.  For his unfaltering devotion to his vocation and to this community, we honor Dr. Rob Spach, Davidson College Chaplain.

2009 ODK Community Award: J. Kris Krider

The Omicron Delta Kappa community award recognizes someone outside the immediate college community who has made a significant impact on the town of Davidson.  This year’s recipient has been the Town Planning Director of Davidson for going on six years now.  He embodies the concept that some have called “servant leadership.” As one Davidson resident explained, this year’s community honoree “really puts people first. Davidson is changing.  That’s inevitable.  But he tries to channel those changes in ways that benefit the people who consider themselves part of this place.”  If you have the opportunity to talk to him, you’ll quickly realize that he is not only one of the best listeners you’ll ever meet, but that he’s also the guy that makes this town work.  On behalf of the Davidson Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa, it is my sincere honor to present Kris Krider
with this year’s community award.

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Student Government Association Faculty Award: Sophia Sarafova

The Student Government Association Faculty Award is given annually to a faculty member who demonstrates a passion and dedication to teaching inside the classroom that extends into the lives of his or her students beyond the classroom. This year’s recipient has illustrated a dedication to helping students in their academic endeavors, paired with a genuine concern for the students’ lives in the extracurricular.  She frequently attends student theater and musical performances, and regularly attends student organizations’ meetings and events. 

One student noted that “had it not been for her advice and intervention in my life, I am certain that I would not have made it as far as I have at Davidson, and would be significantly more lost, confused, and exhausted as both a student and a person.” 

Another stated that due to her interaction with students outside the classroom, “she intuitively knows when something is wrong in a student’s life, and is not afraid to try and help, regardless of her busy schedule.” 

Therefore, the SGA presents Dr. Sophia Sarafova with the 2008 – 2009 Faculty Award, thanking her for her dedication and commitment that has made a very real difference in the lives of students.

Student Government Association Premajor Advising Award: David Brown

The Student Government Association Pre-Major Advising Award is given to a faculty member currently serving as a Pre-Major Adviser in recognition for outstanding dedication and meaningful guidance provided to student advisees. 

In a time when students have yet to find the academic path of best fit, Pre-Major Advising can serve as a guiding light to help navigate them through difficult decision-making.

Students noted that this year’s recipient is not only “incredibly knowledgeable about the organic chemistry course he teaches so passionately, but he is an excellent communicator who goes above and beyond when it comes to accommodating students.” 

He is known for his interest in students’ lives, and for taking the time to work with his advisees to figure out what really captivates them, helping them make the best academic decisions possible.  Students noted that his dedication to truly understanding their own interests and passions has made all the difference in their academic careers.

It is in thanks for his work that the SGA presents the first annual Pre-Major Advising Award to Dr. David Brown.