In November, our New Scholar Dinner brought all of us into one room, but it somehow felt bigger than that. I walked into the Kenan Center Lounge, balancing a plate from the buffet and trying to introduce myself to a few members of our program’s new cohort. The room felt warm in that way where you can tell everyone is both excited and a little unsure of what to expect. It reminded me of my first week as a Hodges Scholar, except now I feel much older, a little more confident, and much more aware of how fast time is passing.
Dr. Kim Allen kicked things off with a welcome that made the evening immediately feel intentional. She has a unique way of speaking that makes you want to sit up straighter and remember why you chose to be part of something like the Luther Hodges Scholars program. Then Paige Ouimet of the Kenan Institute followed with her own welcome, and it hit me that these are the leaders shaping the spaces where we live and learn. Hearing them speak directly to us felt special, almost like a quiet vote of confidence.
When Keith Martin led the introductions for the new cohort, I loved hearing where everyone came from and what they hoped to do career-wise. Sharing hometowns and career interests sounds simple in the moment, but it made the room feel more connected. You could hear subtle laughs, small nods, and even a few surprised reactions when someone mentioned a unique path. It gave the whole night a sense of personality instead of formality.
A little later, I had the chance to witness the next generation of Leadership Council elders, Riya Behari and Molly Malek, welcome everyone on behalf of the council. I could tell they were addressing a group of people who genuinely wanted to be there and felt excitement about building something meaningful together.
The highlight of the night for many of us was Professor Jeff Mittelstadt’s special message. He spoke about sustainability, leadership, and the future in a way that felt grounded, emotional, and energizing. We wrapped up with Phil Hardy’s overview of the scholar experience and closing remarks from Dr. Allen. By that point, the room felt different. More hopeful, more connected, and definitely more inspired.
Walking out of the Kenan Center, I felt grateful to be surrounded by people who care about making a positive impact. If there is one thing I took away, it is that communities like this grow when we show up, stay curious, and support each other. My hope is that this dinner becomes the first of many moments where we feel that sense of purpose together.
