Lancaster Bible College students are nurtured and mentored by dedicated faculty and show, but their peers in leadership roles have significant impact during their time at LBC as well.
In the spring of 2024, LBC honored these high-caliber student leaders as the semester closed. Several students were recognized, including the following senior Student Leadership and Impact Award recipients.
The Margaret E. Uhler Servanthood Award is presented to the graduate who exemplifies a spirit of servanthood, cooperation and involvement as modeled in the life of Ms. Uhler, who served as the campus nurse in the 1970s and 80s. The 2024 recipient is Rachael McMahon (’24).
Rachel graduated in May with a Bachelor of Arts in Children & Family Ministry. During her time at LBC, she served as an officer within the Student Government Association, as a Resident Assistant and for two years within the Student Missions Fellowship (SMF) team. As part of her SMF service, she was Dr. Ed Scheuerman’s co-leader for the 2024 Missions Conference. She enjoyed living on campus and faithfully served as an RA in Weber Hall. Rachel was also a member of the LeadNow leadership development program, which is patterned after Jesus’ model of servant leadership. “As a Resident Assistant, Rachel exuded patience, had a calm and welcoming spirit, and created space for fellow students to feel safe to share their stories, burdens and praises,” relayed Jordan Birch, Director of Residential Living. Rachel’s future plans include service overseas as she uses her degree in Children & Family Ministry.
The Robert J. Roper Student Government Award is presented to the graduate displaying all-around involvement in school life, as modeled by Dr. Roper who served as Dean of Students during the 1980s and ‘90s. The 2024 recipient is Alex McWilliams (’24).
Alex graduated with both a Bachelor of Arts in Pastoral Ministry and a Master of Arts in Ministry this spring. He worked in Admissions and Student Affairs, welcoming current and prospective students alike. Alex was a member of the LeadNow leadership development program and served as an officer within Student Missions Fellowship and as the Chargers for Christ student organization president. He was also a member of the cross country team for four years and the track and field team for three years. Coach Melissa Baughman said of Alex, “He is a great role model to others, always working hard and doing everything for God’s glory. His positive attitude is contagious—even while running the 10k in track—25 laps!”
The Student Leadership Award is given to one male and one female graduate who demonstrate excellence in student leadership as evidenced by scholarship, extracurricular involvement and service to the college community. The 2024 recipients are Phoebe Clemens (’24) and Brian Coburn (’24).
Phoebe graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Sport Management. She served with excellence as the Vice President for Student Government Association during the 2023-24 academic year. She played on the softball team for four years and will play next year while studying for her Master of Science in Sport Management. Phoebe served as a team captain for three years and was a leader within the Athletic Department. Her father and LBC Softball Head Coach John Clemens remarked, “Phoebe looks to be an encouragement to others. She approaches her leadership role on the softball team with dependability, loyalty and a fun-loving attitude.” Additionally, Phoebe served as the Vice President of the Sport Management Student Association for two years and was involved in Finishers for Christ. She graduated with her bachelor’s degree in May as the Class of 2024 Valedictorian.
Brian graduated this spring with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He played on the LBC baseball team since his freshman year, leading as a captain for two of those years. Notably, he was the United East Pitcher of the Year in 2023 and was recognized in several conferences since 2021. He also served as a Resident Assistant for two years the 2023-24 Finishers for Christ President. LBC Baseball Head Coach Ryan McFarland said of Brian, “He represents what makes sport great and God-honoring. He plays whole-heartedly. He builds up others around him. He doesn’t shy away from hard things but uses them as an opportunity to grow.”