Pacer Alumni Awarded for Embodying Core Values

Aiken, SC (02/28/2020) — The University of South Carolina Aiken Alumni Association awarded its inaugural Core 4 awards to those who epitomize the institution's core values.

"We decided that going forward, each year we will select distinguished alumni who embrace the university's values of character, citizenship, curiosity, and collegiality," said Blake Leaphart, president of the USC Aiken Alumni Association.

This first year of the recognition, seven nominees were considered.

"Congratulations to all nominees and those selected," Leaphart said.

"We appreciate how they continue to demonstrate a strong Pacer ethic in all they do. These alumni continue to make a difference in the lives and communities around them."

Jessica Powell, Class of '10, who graduated with a degree in communication, currently serves as an officer in the U.S. Navy.

"While being active duty military and a non-profit director for at-risk youth, Jessica continuously shows that she is about the enhancement and development of all youth and several communities," her nominator said in the submission package.

"She promotes positive networking amongst professionals and provides resources in order for students to pursue higher education and/or trades."

Dr. Jason Holt, Class of '05, is employed by the Aiken County Public School District as the principal of Aiken High School. The secondary education major is "a tireless advocate for public education in Aiken County," according to his nomination package.

"Jason personifies all that we wish to instill in our graduates - a bravery to innovate; the confidence to lead; the desire to inspire; the benefits of collaboration and collegiality; the humility that comes from true character; and the belief that one person - one USC Aiken graduate - can impact our university and our community."

Communication major, Israel Butler, Class of '11, works for the Richmond County School District at Lucy C. Laney High School as the technology education teacher.

He "is a conscientious worker with excellent communication skills, a true compassion for students, and a terrific work ethic," his nominator said.

"Mr. Butler's experience has also inspired students to pursue a career path that they had never known was available to them prior to his class. Mr. Butler has been an asset to our program and has truly enriched students' learning experiences."

Phatisha Moore graduated in 2010 with a degree in sociology. She is employed with Collette Ball-State Farm, LLC as a customer service representative.

"She is selfless, hardworking, and has a heart of gold," according to the sentiments in her nomination letter.

Moore started a non-profit named S.T.A.N.D. -- Striving Towards a New Domain -- to challenge and motivate youth and future generations.

"This non-profit serves to educate, expose, empower, push and prepare our youth to improve their life and future."

Each awardee was recognized during halftime of the men's homecoming basketball game.

"We are proud to call you alumni of the University of South Carolina Aiken," Leaphart told the Core 4 recipients.

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The University of South Carolina Aiken Alumni Association awarded its inaugural Core 4 awards to those who epitomize the institution’s core values. From left, awardees were Israel Butler, Jessica Powell, Dr. Jason Holt, and Phatisha Moore.