Glenda Phillips-Hightower Still Inspires Generations as Elon University Honors Her Legacy as the School’s First Full Time Black Student at 2026 Black Excellence Awards

Glenda Phillips-Hightower’s Legacy Takes Center Stage at Elon University

More than five decades after changing the course of campus history, Glenda Phillips-Hightower remains a powerful symbol of courage, resilience, and leadership. This year, her impact was celebrated once again during Elon University’s 2026 Phillips-Perry Black Excellence Awards.

The annual event brought together students, faculty, staff, and alumni to honor Black excellence across campus. However, one of the most powerful moments of the night was the recognition of Phillips-Hightower’s legacy as Elon’s first full time Black student.

Her journey helped reshape what opportunity looked like at the university. Today, her name continues to inspire a new generation of Black students pursuing leadership, scholarship, and service.

Phillips-Perry Black Excellence Awards Celebrate Black Leadership

The Phillips-Perry Black Excellence Awards were created to honor the legacies of Glenda Phillips-Hightower and Eugene Perry. Together, their stories represent courage, perseverance, and the fight for inclusion.

Each year, the awards celebrate members of the Elon community who show excellence in leadership, service, academics, and community impact. This year’s ceremony introduced several new honors that further expanded that mission.

University leaders also emphasized the importance of preserving Black history on campus. The event reflected Elon’s continued commitment to equity, belonging, and representation.

New Trailblazer Award Honors Glenda Phillips-Hightower’s Impact

One of the biggest additions this year was the Glenda Phillips-Hightower Trailblazer Award. The honor was created to recognize students who carry her spirit through mentorship, advocacy, and perseverance.

The award celebrates those who create stronger spaces for belonging. It also honors students who uplift others while leading with courage and purpose.

This year’s recipient was Jordyne Lewis, a member of the class of 2027. Her leadership reflects the values Phillips-Hightower brought to Elon when she first stepped onto campus.

Janice Ratliff’s Service Also Remembered During the Ceremony

The evening also included an emotional tribute to Janice Ratliff, who passed away earlier this year. Ratliff spent more than 35 years serving students through her work in student life.

During the ceremony, Black Student Union president Maleah Proctor spoke about Ratliff’s influence.

“In recognition of a remarkable legacy, we honor Janice Ratliff, who devoted more than 35 years of service to Elon University,” Proctor said.

She added that Ratliff’s impact lives on through the many students she mentored and encouraged throughout her career.

Black Student Achievement Continues to Grow at Elon University

Beyond honoring past pioneers, the event also celebrated current student excellence. Awards recognized students for academic achievement, research, global engagement, leadership, and community service.

Students like Nailah Ware, Kendall Lytle, Madison McCrainey, and others were recognized for their work. Their achievements showed how the foundation laid by leaders like Phillips-Hightower continues to create opportunities.

As Elon University looks ahead, the legacy of Glenda Phillips-Hightower remains deeply woven into its future. Her story continues to open doors, inspire action, and remind students what is possible.