D.C. Scholars Win Prestigious Award at Sewanee Commencement

Posse D.C. Scholars Brandon Iracks-Edelin and Lauren Newman received a standing ovation during Sewanee’s spring commencement program when they were announced as co-recipients of the 2018 Algernon Sydney Sullivan Medallion.

The prestigious award is presented annually to graduating seniors, alumni or others who demonstrate commitment to the Sewanee community through service and leadership.

As the president of the Student Government Association at Sewanee, Brandon worked with his colleagues, student peers, faculty and administrators to raise awareness about social issues on campus including equity, inclusion and diversity. He credits his Posse network with inspiring him to advocate for positive change at Sewanee.

“Having the support of Posse taught me to speak up on issues I care about.”

“The conversations and lessons I learned from my Posse mentor Barbara Banks, along with Eric Benjamin, Curtis Johnson, Dr. Courtney Thompson, professor Kevin Wilson and my Posse instilled a confidence in me that I will carry for life,” says Brandon.

During her three years as a Sustainability Fellow, Lauren revamped the Environmental Residents program, almost tripling the size of the applicant pool after one successful year in six residential halls and three themed houses.

“I saw the Posse Scholarship as the push I needed to come out of my comfort zone and use my time at Sewanee as an opportunity for growth and transformation,” says Lauren. “Having the support of Posse taught me to speak up on issues I care about, even when it is scary to do so.”