FRANKLIN, Ind. – Franklin College sophomores Grace Hattabaugh and Jonathan McCoy received the esteemed Laurels and Lancers Awards during the annual Opening Convocation and Bell Ceremony late last month. Each year, two outstanding students are recognized for their first-year academic success and strong campus-community involvement.
“Our Laurels and Lancers Awards are conferred by vote of the faculty,” said Kristin C. Flora, Ph.D., vice president for academic affairs and dean of the college. “Grace and Jonathan exemplify how Franklin College students can make the most of their Franklin College experience, both academically and through participation in co-curricular activities, serving as inspiring role models for their peers.”
As recipients of the honor, Hattabaugh and McCoy had the privilege of signaling the beginning of the 2025-26 academic year by ringing the ceremonial college bell. To commemorate the achievement, their names are engraved on the Laurels and Lancers Trophy, which is on display in the academic affairs department at the college. They each received a framed certificate as a keepsake.
Hattabaugh, from Hope, is a graduate of Hauser High School. She is studying history with a religious studies minor. Her future aspiration is to teach AP history at the high school level. On campus, Hattabaugh has pursued several interests, joining Intervarsity Christian Fellowship, Pi Beta Phi sorority, Earth Club, and Student Foundation. During her first year at Franklin College, she was named to the President’s List for both the fall and spring semesters for maintaining a 4.0 GPA.
McCoy is from New Whiteland, graduating from Whiteland Community High School. He is double-majoring in actuarial science and applied mathematics. His goal is to be an actuarial consultant. He also secured a place on the President’s List for both the fall and spring semesters of his first year on campus. He has served as both the chaplain and secretary for Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity, treasurer for the Math and Computing Club, and a member of the Student Foundation.
