The Faculty Medal of Distinction is awarded annually by the faculty of the IU School of Liberal Arts to an undergraduate student who has made outstanding contributions to the liberal arts community in the areas of scholarship, leadership, and service.
The Faculty Medal of Distinction is presented to the recipient during the annual Faculty Assembly Awards ceremony.
The faculty of the IU School of Liberal Arts nominate students based on:
- academic accomplishments, including excellence in multiple disciplines, project participation, or other awards
- meritorious participation in extracurricular activities, including contributions and leadership
- other considerations, such as community engagement related to their academic pursuits; commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion; other accomplishments that speak to their excellence as a student; or other activities and accomplishments that support the university’s overall mission
Olivia Ellenwood exemplifies the broad academic excellence honored by the Faculty Medal of Distinction. Olivia graduated with a major in Global and International Studies and a minor in Political Science in the School of Liberal Arts, a second major in Civic Leadership Major from the School of Public and Environmental Affairs, and an Honors College degree.
Her stellar academic performance reflects her work ethic and genuine engagement as a student. With a keen interest in the development challenges facing sub-Saharan Africa, Olivia studied abroad in The Gambia and Senegal in the summer of 2022. She reflected that coming from a small hometown, in some ways, she found more in common with the rural Gambian villagers she lived and worked with than with fellow students from Indianapolis.
Olivia shared her passion for international experiences with other students by working as an Ambassador to Study Abroad programs. She has volunteered with Indy Urban Acres and funded her college education by working as a Senior Youth Development Professional at Boys and Girls Clubs of Indianapolis. As a student, a citizen, and a true leader with unlimited potential to impact the world in wonderful ways, Olivia Ellenwood exemplifies the spirit of excellence, talent, and passion that this award honors.
