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Headley was among top students representing Illinois’ colleges and universities honored during a special ceremony hosted by The Lincoln Academy of Illinois at the President Abraham Lincoln Hotel in downstate Springfield on November 4. Headley is double majoring in political science and sociology and anthropology.

Every fall, an outstanding senior from each of the four-year degree-granting institutions of higher learning in Illinois is awarded the Abraham Lincoln Civic Engagement Award bestowed by the Governor of Illinois. In the spirit of Lincoln, Student Laureates are honored for their leadership and service in the pursuit of the betterment of humanity and for overall excellence in curricular and extracurricular activities.

Headley was selected as this year Lake Forest College Lincoln Laureate because of the many ways she has contributed to the Forester Community, including through her long-time membership of the United Black Association, where she currently serves as President; and serving as a student representative on the Intercultural Advisory Group, Bias Reporting Policy Committee, Conduct Board, Curricular Policies Committee, and Academic Honesty Judicial Board. 

“Hayley is deeply committed to advocating for student needs and enhancing the experience of her fellow Foresters,” said Aldo Guzman, Associate Dean of Students and Director of the Gates Center for Leadership and Personal Growth. “She has an innate love for education and institutional change, which is palpable through her work in institutional committees where she has provided invaluable perspective regarding academic and co-curricular policies. Through her work in Athletics, Advancement, and the Career Advancement Center, Hayley has developed strong connections with students, faculty, and staff across campus, which genuinely informs her ability to advocate for the Forester Community.”

Each Student Laureate received the Abraham Lincoln Civic Engagement Award certificate signed by Governor J.B. Pritzker; a Lincoln medallion; a challenge coin; and a $1,000 check from The Lincoln Academy. Student Laureates are selected by their individual schools.

In addition to honoring the state’s Student Laureates, Illinois is unique in the United States in selecting present or former citizens who have made outstanding contributions toward the progress and betterment of humanity to be honored as Laureates of the Lincoln Academy and receive the “Order of Lincoln” from the Governor, a process that has been in place since 1964.

Proceeds from the spring Laureate Convocation are used to support the Student Laureate program each fall. For more information visit www.TheLincolnAcademyOfIllinois.org or The Lincoln Academy's social media sites.

Related Links:

• See past Forester Lincoln Laureates
• Explore the Gates Center for Leadership and Personal Growth