The Luther Hodges Scholars Program annually recognizes graduating scholars whose work exemplifies the program’s core competencies of research, cross-sector collaboration, and leadership.
Beginning in 2026, the program confers two awards, representing the highest honors of the Luther Hodges Scholars Program.
Recipients are recognized each year at the Luther Hodges Scholars Graduation Ceremony.
This award recognizes a graduating Hodges Scholar who has demonstrated exceptional achievement in research and sustained commitment to intellectual inquiry during their time in the program.
The award honors scholars who engage deeply with complex questions through rigorous analysis, thoughtful methodology, and original insight. Whether through an honors thesis, independent research project, or faculty collaboration, recipients produce work that reflects both analytical strength and intellectual curiosity.
Beyond the quality of a single project, this award recognizes a scholar’s growth as a researcher—including their ability to refine ideas, engage evidence, and communicate findings clearly to diverse audiences.
Recipients exemplify the LHS commitment to evidence-based problem solving, producing research that not only advances understanding but also holds relevance for real-world, cross-sector challenges.
Research Excellence Award Winners
2026 — Raven Heyward and Chi Vu
The Frank Hawkins Kenan Distinguished Scholar Medal is the program’s highest honor, awarded to a graduating scholar who has demonstrated distinguished and honorable service to the Luther Hodges Scholars Program and community.
This award recognizes exceptional commitment to strengthening the scholar experience through volunteer leadership, mentorship, community-building, and sustained engagement. Recipients are scholars who consistently show up for others—moderating conversations, mentoring peers, hosting guests, and contributing meaningfully to the life of the program.
The medal honors a scholar whose character, integrity, and contributions have had a lasting impact on the LHS community.
Frank Hawkins Kenan Distinguished Scholar Medal Winners
2026 — Tyler Coffee
