Lumen Prize

Elon scholars are making an impact in our world through groundbreaking research on campus and around the globe. The annual President's Report profiles inspiring faculty and student researchers who are striving to build a brighter future. 

Elon University senior Rachel Mehaffey used the university's top prize for undergraduate research and creative achievements to study the way dancers interpret what they are asked to perform on stage and in the classroom.

The university's top award comes with $15,000 to support and celebrate academic and creative achievements.

Omolayo Ojo, an international studies major and Honors Fellow from Maryland, will spend a year in Europe before pursuing graduate studies in immigration law, migration and development.

Elon senior Nicole Payne Mota, whose Cuban and Puerto Rican heritage are reflected in her musical passion and scholarly work, led a Yeager Recital Hall concert on April 24 supported by the university's top prize for undergraduate research and creative achievement.

Elon University junior Helen Meskhidze received a scholarship through the national Society of Physics Students.

Mary Rouse, a political science major from Charlotte, North Carolina, will study strategic narratives next year at Royal Holloway, University of London, as she works toward a graduate degree in media, power and public affairs. 

Elon University senior Taylor Davis traveled to Boston in March 2015 to present her research at a national biochemistry conference. The Honors Fellow received a student travel award and was recognized in the undergraduate poster competition.

Elon Lumen Scholar Helen Meskhidze '16 and Associate Professor Anthony Crider each presented at a regional meeting of the American Association of Physics Teachers at Wake Forest University from March 27-28.

Research by Elon University senior Kate Smith-Lin finds that citizens of Indonesia don’t necessarily save more money after a bank opens in rural areas, but they do change the way they save, making it easier to protect their families in times of crisis.