Each year, Trevecca recognizes outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to the University and its surrounding communities through the Stella Simpson Inheritance and Leadership Awards.
This year, the Stella Simpson Award winners are Carolyn Johnson and Dr. Iris Gordon.
Carolyn Johnson - Inheritance Award
Carolyn Johnson, a 2022 graduate of Trevecca, is serving as an AmeriCorps VISTA staff member in the Center for Student Development’s Community Engagement sector. Now in her third year with AmeriCorps, Johnson has dedicated herself to empowering and supporting others, both on and off campus. Her work has positively impacted the Trevecca community and beyond, helping to build stronger connections and serve those in need.
Dr. Iris Gordon - Leadership Award
Dr. Iris Gordon is the Director of Community Engagement and Strategic Initiatives at Trevecca’s J.V. Morsch Center for Social Justice. Gordon is a passionate advocate for social justice, focusing on community development and creating pathways to address social and economic inequities. Through her work at Trevecca, Gordon has led numerous initiatives, including the Neighborhood Empowerment Program, Social Business Laboratory, Youth About Change and the Love Thy Neighborhood Collective. She also organizes the Breaking the Stigma Mental Health Conference, an event that brings awareness to mental health issues. Gordon’s leadership has left a lasting impact on the university and the 37210 neighborhood.
The Stella Simpson awards were established to honor the legacy of Dr. Stella Simpson, a former education professor at Trevecca. A trailblazer in education and a pioneer in the desegregation of public schools in Nashville, Simpson dedicated her life to empowering others. The awards celebrate individuals who exemplify the same commitment to service, leadership and positive change that Dr. Simpson displayed throughout her life.
The Inheritance Award is given to an undergraduate senior or recent Trevecca graduate. The Leadership Award is given to a staff or faculty member, an alumnus of five years or more, or a friend of the University.