The School of Communications alumnus was a key contributor to ‘One on One Sports’ and Elon Sports Vision.
Dr. Christopher Edwards P’18 has established two Elon Engagement scholarships in the School of Communications and a sports journalism award in memory of his son, Christopher Edwards II ’18.
The Christopher Edwards II ’18 Elon Engagement Scholarships are designated for incoming students who plan to study in the School of Communications and display a commitment to community and civic engagement, leadership and service. Elon Engagement Scholars are awarded a scholarship, renewable annually, and a one-time grant to be used for an engaged learning opportunity, which might include undergraduate research, study abroad, internships, service learning and creative projects.
The first Christopher Edwards II ’18 Award for Sports Journalism will be awarded on Thursday, April 20, at the School of Communications awards ceremony, and it will recognize the work of a graduating senior who has established a record of academic success, demonstrated mastery within sports journalism, and made significant contributions to their major. The recipient will have been highly involved in the Elon campus community as a leader and excelled in the classroom. It will honor quality sports journalism in Chris’ name, serving as an annual reminder to students and alumni of his contributions to the School of Communications and, specifically, sports journalism.
Additionally, the McEwen 107 suite, which houses Elon Sports Vision, will be named in Chris’ honor.
Chris, who passed away on Aug. 21, 2019, at age 24, embodied the mission of Elon. He was a high-achieving student who took advantage of experiential learning opportunities. He was a host of “One on One Sports,” participated in Elon Sports Vision, and co-hosted a show on WSOE dedicated to exceptional Black music called “The Urban Power Hour.” He also played trombone in the Fire of the Carolinas marching band, leading the low brass section.
“Chris was a special person. He had a way of bringing people together regardless of their background or beliefs,” said Adam Seidman ’18 G’20, one of Chris’ friends and president of the EVECE Foundation. “He was a gifted communicator and leader who was always able to bring out the best in people. It brings me great joy to see an award and scholarships administered to individuals who embody many of these same qualities each year and as a way of supporting those who are deserving and carrying on Chris’ legacy.”
EVECE is named after two exceptional communicators, Chris and his sister, Erin Edwards. Their excellent leadership and collaboration skills paired with an inherent ability to build relationships allowed them to excelled in the industry. EVECE’s goal is to help lead others in their footsteps.
Chris encouraged aspiring journalists, particularly Black student journalists, to pursue their dreams, and he gave back to the community through volunteer work with a program that offered safe transportation after dark for Elon students. Chris so exemplified what the Elon community means that his many friends regarded him as “The Mayor of Elon.”