Bionica Barnes and Lauryn Davis, both of Memphis, were named to the fall 2024 Paul and Martha Meek Leadership Award for demonstrating outstanding student leadership.
The awards were presented at the commencement ceremonies held Dec. 14 by Dr. Andy Lewter, vice chancellor for student affairs. Each graduate received a medal and a monetary award.
The award was first issued in 1970 and was created and funded by three children of Dr. Paul Meek, who held the university’s chief administrator position as executive officer (1934-51), dean (1951-67) and chancellor (1967), and his wife, Martha.
Bionica Barnes
Bionica Barnes graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in veterinary science and technology with a concentration in veterinary health.
Since 2022, she has been an intermittent veterinarian assistant at the Raleigh Bartlett Animal Hospital in Memphis, working under the supervision of veterinarians, veterinary technicians and veterinarian assistants.
She has been a resident assistant at UT Martin since August 2023.
Barnes is a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc. (Kappa Gamma Chapter), serving as its president in 2022-23, vice president in 2023-24 and is the current financial secretary.
She is also a member of the National Society of Black Women in Medicine and the National Pan-Hellenic Council.
“Bionica Barnes embodies the leadership, dedication, and service that the Meek Award celebrates,” stated Ryan Martin, director of the Office of Housing, in his letter of recommendation of Barnes for the award. “As a resident assistant at the University of Tennessee at Martin, she has built a welcoming and supportive community for residents while assisting the Office of Housing in organizing meaningful events.
“Her leadership extends to her role as president of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, where she successfully increased academic support initiatives and improved the Council’s overall (grade-point average). She also served as president of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority Inc., where she led impactful campus service projects and advocated for the organization’s presence and values.”
Martin added that Barnes’ service as a volunteer enhanced her nomination for the Meek Award.
“Bionica’s commitment to service is evident through her extensive volunteer work, including organizing supply donations, speaking to high school students about college readiness and assisting with community events such as campus clean-ups and donation drives,” he stated in his letter of recommendation. “Her dedication has earned her recognition, including being named Sorority Woman of the Year.
“Balancing academics, leadership and service, Bionica demonstrates excellence in her professional growth and contributions to campus life. Her passion for serving others – whether through her work in the housing department or her volunteer initiatives – showcases her ability to inspire and lead with empathy and purpose.”
Lauryn Davis
Lauryn Davis graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass media and strategic communication with an emphasis in broadcasting and concentration in performance/journalism.
She has worked in the UT Martin Office of Admissions since January 2022 on the Summer Orientation And Registration (SOAR) staff, providing information to prospective students on SOAR tours.
She is a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. (Zeta Lambda Chapter), where she has served as its secretary since December 2022 and Ivy Leaf reporter since June 2022.
She has served on the Student Government Association throughout her academic career at UT Martin, serving on the Freshman Council in the 2021-22 school year, the Multicultural Affairs Committee in the same year, and senator of the College of Humanities and Fine Arts since September 2022.
She has been a UT Martin Student Ambassador since August 2022, a member of the National Association of Black Journalists since March 2022 and secretary of Women in Communication since August 2022.
“Lauryn Davis embodies the qualities of a true leader and is an outstanding candidate for the Meek Leadership Award,” stated John Abel, assistant vice chancellor for student affairs and dean of students, and Rachel Martin, director of student life, in their letter of recommendation. “Throughout her time at UT Martin, Lauryn has not only excelled academically but has also actively sought out leadership opportunities, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on her campus community.
“From her early days as a Freshman Council member to her pivotal role as co-chair of the Multicultural Affairs Committee, Lauryn has always been a proactive and dedicated voice for students. Her leadership truly flourished during her tenure as president of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., where she demonstrated not only organizational acumen but also a genuine passion for empowering others.”
The letter of application further notes Davis’ leadership experience in other areas.
“Beyond her leadership in these formal roles, Lauryn has also served as a Student Ambassador and SOAR Leader, positions in which she has excelled by welcoming and guiding new UTM students. In these roles, Lauryn has shown an exceptional ability to connect with others and foster a sense of belonging and community.
“She also completed the POISE internship with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. nationally, where she was able to not only represent the local AKA chapter but the university as a whole.”
The letter of recommendation concludes with a descriotion of her roles in her major.
“In her chosen field of communications, Lauryn has made an undeniable impact,” it reads. “As a member of WUTM campus radio, she has staffed numerous UTM athletic events and currently serves as the station’s news director.“She also has produced a weekly show called ‘For the Record,’ which informs the campus and broader community of the key people and events occurring on and around campus. Under her leadership, WUTM has continued to garner recognition as one of the top college radio stations in the nation.
