Near the end of the spring semester, shortly before the Marshall University Commencement, the Elizabeth Gibson Drinko Honors Convocation provides an inspiring, campus-wide celebration of exceptional undergraduate student achievement. Named in 1994 for an extraordinary friend of Marshall, the evening ceremony and reception has always been a means to publicly recognize graduating students that complete a distinct curriculum of honors coursework, in addition to their major programs, as members of the Honors College. It is also a way to provide all students at different points in their course of study special recognition and commendation for clearly and effectively demonstrated excellence in academic achievement, research, or service. The college contacts departmental chairs in the first half of the spring semester to solicit nominations for honors and awards that are determined by each department to be presented at the convocation.
The Honors Convocation is a multifaceted event that resonates with the strategic goals and values of the Honors College at Marshall University. It encapsulates the essence of academic distinction, student-centered learning, faculty engagement, community building, and institutional pride.
- Celebrating Academic Excellence: The Honors Convocation is a clear representation of the college’s commitment to academic excellence. Recognizing the achievements of outstanding students not only reinforces the college’s emphasis on high academic standards but also showcases the success of its educational programs.
- Student Engagement and Success: By acknowledging the accomplishments of honors students, the Honors Convocation supports the strategic goal of enhancing student engagement and success. This event can serve as a motivational tool for students, encouraging them to strive for excellence in their academic endeavors.
- Faculty Involvement and Recognition: The event also provides an opportunity for faculty to engage with students in a celebratory setting, recognizing their contributions to student development and success. It highlights the role of faculty as mentors and educators in shaping the intellectual growth of students.
- Community Building and Pride: The Honors Convocation contributes to building a sense of community and pride within the Honors College and the university at large. It’s an occasion that brings together students, faculty, staff, and potentially families and alumni, fostering a sense of belonging and shared achievement.
- Enhancing the College’s Reputation: Such an event also plays a role in enhancing the reputation of the Honors College. By publicly acknowledging student achievements, the college demonstrates its effectiveness in fostering high-caliber academic talent, which can attract future students and potential donors.
- Alignment with Institutional Values: The Convocation aligns with the broader institutional values of Marshall University, such as inclusivity, diversity, and a commitment to excellence. It’s an embodiment of these values in action, celebrating the diverse achievements of its student body.
Beginning in Spring 2020, the Honors College will archive the present year and many past year programs produced for the convocation on Marshall Digital Scholar. Copies can be viewed and downloaded there.
Read more about Elizabeth Gibson Drinko.
See the latest Honors Convocation as livestreamed (now archived) from Marshall University.
Honors Medallions, Cords, and Tassels
Students who are graduating as students in good standing in the Honors College are awarded an Honors Medallion at the Honors Convocation ceremony. For students graduating in the Winter Commencement, the award is made at the Winter Honors Medallion Ceremony.
Based on GPA alone, eligible undergraduate students may inquire wtih the Registrar’s Office in Old Main 106A to pick up academic honor cords and tassels. If you have questions concerning your eligibility, please contact your academic advisor and ask if you meet the academic and residency requirements.
- Summa cum laude (green and white): 3.85-4.00
- Magna cum laude (gold): 3.60-3.84
- Cum laude (red): 3.30-3.59
- Associate with High Honors (blue): 3.70-4.00
- Associate with Honors (blue): 3.30-3.69
