This story appeared in the 2023 President’s Report issue of Onyx Anneau.
Elizabeth Reel ’21, content marketing manager
Since established in 1840, Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) has taught young individuals to indulge themselves in opportunities to give both learning experiences and opportunities for growth. In addition to challenging students in the classroom to think outside the box, students are also encouraged to be involved in student clubs and organizations. The Presidential Corps is just one of 24 student-led organizations at The Woods. Reintroduced in 2018, after years of being dormant, the Presidential Corps was formed to serve the College as student ambassadors. “They really strive to be an example for the College,” said Peggy Nash, Presidential Corps advisor. Specifically, being part of the organization is a great honor for students, as faculty or staff must recommend them. President Dottie L. King, Ph.D., explained that when the Presidential Corps was reinstated, it was a very intentional process.
“When we brought the Presidential Corps back, it was my idea, believing that Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is a special place. One of the things that makes it special is that there is meaningful interaction between students and the happenings of the College. In addition to the relationships with faculty and staff, students in the Presidential Corps are engaged with the board of trustees, the selection of the president and much more. This is the kind of empowerment we teach so that leadership becomes easier in the future,” said King. Nash shared that along with the organization upholding the core pillars of the institution, the organization really strives to give back. “Because the College is so committed to service work, we want to ensure that students are aware of how blessed we really are and the importance of serving and giving back,” she said. The Presidential Corps hold themselves to a high standard as they represent more than just themselves.
Members of the Presidential Corps must hold a GPA of 3.0 or higher and display characteristics in leadership, professionalism, humbleness and would be great representatives of the College. “Whether it’s on social media or in-person, they are always expected to be a positive representation of SMWC,” Nash explained.
Lillie Gendel, current member of the Presidential Corps, learned that she has a unique connection to the organization. “One of the most special moments I have experienced through Presidential Corps is meeting with Peggy McCormick-Platz ’88, ’21G. She is a current member of the Board of Trustees, the president of the Alumni Board of Directors and a former member of Presidential Corps. She informed us that my great aunt, Sister Jeanne Knoerle ’49, actually established Presidential Corps. I wasn’t previously aware of that, and it was so special to hear that I have yet another connection with her,” Gendel shared. “It makes me feel as if she is watching over me and guiding me on the right path. It’s so beautiful to me how events that happen before our existence lead us to where we are supposed to be.”
The organization participates in College events like Ring Day, Commencement, the President’s Gala, the Light Your Way Christmas Parade, banquets and more. Students also receive opportunities to travel with the President. A unique feature of the organization is that members have a required uniform that must be worn at official events —a blazer, dress shirt, black slacks and a pin. The pins are presented during the annual pinning ceremony, where King pins each member. “I think pinning each member individually really elevates the event itself, and it helps the students better understand the achievement of earning a place in the organization. It embraces a true sense of belonging for them,” King shared.
Polet Horsley, who serves as president for the Presidential Corps, shared how meaningful it is to be part of such a prestigious organization. “It has been such an extraordinary experience to see myself grow as an individual and have the opportunity to be a leader this year,” she said, “I really love how Presidential Corps provides countless opportunities to make connections with President King, faculty, alumni and our community. The SMWC community is intertwined with everyone on campus, so being able to take those foundational connections from The Woods into the real world is absolutely life-changing.”
0 Comments