Senior from Carlinville named Lincoln Student Laureate for Quincy University

QUINCY — The Lincoln Academy of Illinois named Quincy University senior Graci White from Carlinville a recipient of the prestigious Lincoln Academy Student Laureate Award for 2023.

The program recognizes excellence in curricular and extracurricular activities by seniors from each of Illinois’ four-year, degree-granting colleges and universities, and one student from the community colleges in Illinois. The Lincoln Academy presents an outstanding senior from each of these institutions with the Abraham Lincoln Civic Engagement Award each year.

In a press release, QU president Brian McGee said, “Quincy University greatly appreciates the recognition provided by the Lincoln Academy of Illinois in acknowledging the exceptional achievements of a graduating senior. This year, we are delighted to see this honor awarded to Graci White, an exceptional woman who models for all what a QU education can provide. Graci’s hard work, enthusiasm and positive outlook make us all proud to know her.”

White is a biological sciences and pre-medical sciences double major at QU. She is an active member of the President’s Honors College. She is active outside the classroom as president of a new sorority, tutor in the student success center, resident assistant and a member of the cheerleading squad.

“When I learned I was chosen to be the Lincoln Laureate for QU, I was ecstatic to receive such a prestigious award,” White said. “Being recognized for an award associated with such an amazing individual like Abraham Lincoln is truly an honor in itself. Graduating will be a bittersweet moment because Quincy has become a second home to me. At the same time, I am eager and excited for what’s to come, and I will strive to uphold the virtues and values that embody this award.”

This is the 49th year The Lincoln Academy has celebrated students’ excellence in leadership and service in Illinois. Each student was presented an Abraham Lincoln Civic Engagement Award certificate, a Lincoln medallion, a challenge coin and a $1,000 check from The Lincoln Academy, at the ceremony at the President Abraham Lincoln Hotel in Springfield on Nov. 4.