Sedona Smith Named 2021 Lincoln Laureate

Student-athlete Sedona Smith, a social work major, is the 2021 Lincoln Laureate.

A member of the Women’s Golf Team, Sedona has been active on campus serving in various roles such as the Transfer Student Representative for Student Senate; Staff Writer for the Phoenix; and Writing Fellow for the Social Work Department. She has also worked in the Public Relations Office for the Social Work Organization.

Off campus, Sedona serves as tutor for several elementary and high schools, volunteer for a regional crisis center and works as program manager for a community service organization.

Nominator Dr. Giesela Grumbach cited Sedona’s work ethic, intellectual aptitude and critical thinking skills, as well as a capacity for self-reflection and engagement in critical conversations in her submission.

“Sedona has skills and certifications as a bilingual worker (i.e., proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing Spanish) and she holds certificates in crisis management as well as mental health first aid for youth. Ms. Smith actively contributes to the learning environment in positive ways,’’ she wrote.

Each fall, the Lincoln Academy of Illinois selects an outstanding senior from each of the four-year degree-granting institutions of higher learning in Illinois as student laureate. The Governor presents students with their awards in the fall. In the spirit of Lincoln, laureates are honored for their leadership and service in the pursuit of the betterment of humanity and for overall excellence in curricular and extracurricular activities.

Sedona pointed to President Lincoln’s persistence when asked about her own future as the 2021 Laureate.

“President Lincoln’s leadership legacy sets a standard for my future career as a social worker. His legacy proves that crisis is not synonymous with failure. Whether it be a client, family, or community that is experiencing a crisis, steadfast and humane intervention combined with empathic leadership can increase the chances of successful resolution.”

Congratulations, Sedona!