Decker receives Lycoming College's highest honor

2016 May 10

Lycoming College's highest honor, the Chieftain Award, was conferred to Lindsay J. Decker, an archaeology and history major from Shapleigh, Maine, at an awards ceremony on April 17. The award recognizes the senior who has contributed the most to the college by supporting school activities, exhibiting outstanding leadership qualities and good moral character, working effectively with others, and whose academic rank is above the median of the preceding senior class.

Decker's academic achievements include attaining the Dean's List all four years, participating in the Lycoming Scholars program, and being inducted as a member in the Phi Kappa Phi, Phi Alpha Theta, Theta Alpha Kappa and Phi Sigma Iota honor societies. Her participation on the cross country team and involvement with campus organizations including the Campus Activities Board, History Club, Lycoming Outdoor Leadership and Education, and the Student Athletic Advisory Committee has benefitted all students. She has also contributed to community programs such as the Habitat for Humanity, Daniel's Closet and Relay for Life.

"In all of these endeavors, Lindsay has demonstrated extraordinary intellect, creativity, enthusiasm, and a joyful spirit," said Lycoming College President Kent C. Trachte, who presented the award. "Because of her high academic standards, positive outlook, and many contributions, she has been an inspiration to her peers, her coaches and her professors. We are proud to honor her with this award."

During the ceremony, Decker also received a Phi Kappa Phi graduate scholarship; the Class of 1907 prize, which is awarded to a senior in the upper half of the class who has contributed to campus life by participating in athletics and other student activities; the Holly Elizabeth Hurlbert Prize in Women's Studies, which is awarded to student authors of exceptional research papers on women's studies; and a J Marco Hunsberger Service to Lycoming Award. She also earned a Haberberger Fellowship for her senior year.