On Nov. 1, the Lincoln Academy Student Laureate Program recognized senior psychology major Brian Deal for his achievements in curricular and extracurricular activities.
Deal was invited to Springfield to be inducted into the program and to meet with the 51 other award winners. After the ceremony, which was held at the Old State Capitol historic site, the inductees proceeded to the Illinois governor’s mansion for lunch.
“It was amazing,” Deal said. “I don’t know what I was expecting, but they do a really good job of making you feel like you did something special, that you should and you have stood out.”
A faculty member nominated Deal to receive the award, after which Vice President of Student Affairs Nathan Thomas informed Deal he won. Deal said he initially thought he was in trouble when called to Thomas’ office.
“I was in disbelief because immediately I thought of all of the other students who could have easily gotten this [award] as well,” Deal said.
Deal has been involved in multiple campus groups, including his work as a Student Admissions Representative intern, Student Aide Coordinator and Residential Advisor. He also interned with Chestnut Health Systems as a residential counselor over the summer.
“You don’t even think about anyone really acknowledging [your involvement] and to get that recognition is an honor,” Deal said.
The program acknowledges one senior from every four-year degree-granting college and university in Illinois.
“I just can’t over-emphasize enough how grateful I am and how special this is,” Deal said. “I love this school so much, and to be chosen as their recipient for 2014 means a whole lot to me.”
