Presidents Ball
Can you believe it’s already November? With midterms over, and finals slowly approaching, I’m sure many of us need any break we can get! The good thing is, Presidents Ball is approaching! On November 2nd, 2018, Loyola will hold an annual semi-formal event, which celebrates the accomplishments of the President’s Medallion recipients. One medallion recipient is selected from each of Loyola’s 14 colleges; Arrupe College, Continuing Studies, School of Business, The Graduate School, School of Medicine, School of Law, Pastoral Studies, School of Education, School of Communication, Arts & Sciences, St. Joseph Seminary, Institute of Environmental Sustainability, School of Nursing, and School of Social Work.
Originally, the President’s Medallions were presented during the President’s Ball, a semi-formal dance held in November of each year. The custom has now evolved to presentation of the President’s Medallions earlier in the day at a private reception, dinner, and ceremony. Following this ceremony, the President’s Ball is held to honor President’s Medallion Recipients.
You may wonder, what is the President’s Medallion? Well, the President’s Medallion is one of the most prestigious awards conferred by Loyola University Chicago. A medallion is presented to a single student in each college, school or institute of the University each year. This is quite an accomplishment!
President’s Medallion recipients must meet the following qualifications:
- Currently enrolled student expected to graduate in the 2018-2019 academic year;
- Rank academically in the upper 25% of his/her class;
- Best exemplify a combination of outstanding scholarship, leadership, and service;
- Person of integrity and good reputation;
- Manifest leadership in serving others through involvement in student organizations or volunteering in community settings.
Loyola University Chicago has awarded the President’s Medallion annually to its most outstanding students for almost 50 years! The President’s Medallions and President’s Ball are longstanding Loyola traditions.
Historically, the President’s Ball has provided an opportunity for student leaders to celebrate the founding of Loyola University, then known as St. Ignatius College, by Jesuit Father Arnold Damen and four other Jesuit priests more than 140 years ago. The spirit of Father Damen has endured to this day and is represented by the recipients of the President’s Medallion.
I hope to see many of you there on a fun and incredible night!
