Women recognized for leadership, resiliency

Among the honorees of the Women of UNG 2023 Female Student Leadership Award are University of North Georgia (UNG) cadets and a Rhodes Scholarship finalist.

Ten female students and five alumnae were recognized by the Women of UNG, a shared-interest group of the university's alumni association, for their leadership on March 5.

"The Women of UNG Leadership luncheon is always a great opportunity to recognize alumnae and student leaders who have made an impact on the lives of the people around them," Wendi Huguley, '90, executive director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving, said. "Whether it be through corporate, campus or community leadership, these women often see what others do not and are capable of providing direction and guidance where and when both are needed, when others don’t realize or see the need."

Student recipients were:

• Michelle Alvarado, a fall 2022 graduate from Cornelia, Georgia, with a degree in English with a concentration in literature.
• Cadet Laurana Bradley, a senior from Powder Springs, Georgia, pursuing a degree in criminal justice.
• Cadet Courtney Brewer, a senior from Fort Wayne, Indiana, pursuing a degree in chemistry.
• Cadet Isabelle Clark, a senior from Davenport, Florida, pursuing a degree in nursing.
• Ashley Espinoza, a senior from Gainesville, Georgia, pursuing a degree in middle grades education.
• Madeline Grasso, a senior from Cumming, Georgia, pursuing a degree in modern languages with a concentration in Arabic language and literature.
• Danielle Humphrey, from Lynn Haven, Florida, pursuing a Master of Business Administration
• Anna Møller, a senior from Copenhagen, Denmark, pursuing a degree in psychology and a minor in organizational
• Cadet Allyson Smith, a junior from Nashville, Tennessee, pursuing a degree in mathematics.
• Clare Stevens, a senior pursuing a degree in information systems.

"It means a lot to me that I was selected as a student leader. I lead without expecting anything in return, so to be recognized is such an honor," Humphrey said. "I was so surprised when I was told that I would be recognized by the Women of UNG. It is a recognition that I don't take lightly. I am so proud and humbled to be selected among these other leaders."

The alumnae honorees were: Sarah Draper, '87; the Honorable Angela Duncan '91; Dr. Judy Cason Forbes, '72; Dr. Robin Davis Jones, '96; and Mary Helen Mashburn McGruder, '68.

Jones, who also served as keynote speaker, shared her remarks on resilient leadership. Throughout her comments, she highlighted each of her fellow alumnae honorees and shared how they were resilient.

"Obstacles are opportunities to be successful and, with appreciation, can be just the thing that teaches you the most," Jones said. "Trust in yourself and lean into your strengths. As a woman, there's nothing more powerful."