Date: November 7, 2011
Contact: Lindsay Gladstone
Governors State University
Phone: (708) 534-7090
Email: lgladstone@govst.edu
For Immediate Release
GSU Lincoln Laureate Honored
University Park, Illinois, November 7, 2011 - Each year an outstanding senior from each of the four-year degree granting institutions of higher learning in Illinois is named a Student Laureate of The Lincoln Academy of Illinois.
This year’s Lincoln Laureate from Governors State University is Darwin Gordon of Chicago. Gordon exemplifies the characteristics of Lincoln Laureates, who are chosen for their commitment to the principles of democracy and humanity as embodied by Abraham Lincoln. Gordon was also honored for his outstanding academic achievement and his extensive and committed service to those in need.
On November 5, Gordon and the other student laureates from around the state participated in a ceremony recognizing their achievement at the Old State Capitol in Springfield.
Gordon’s commitment to helping others is demonstrated in his community service. He is active in assisting those who cannot leave their homes due to illness, people who are adjusting to life after incarceration, and those who are homeless. He is currently interning at the Metropolitan Area Group for Igniting Civilization, Inc. (MAGIC), an organization that advocates for youth programming and support.
“I want to give back to my community and to use my knowledge and experience to help others. I felt called to this field,” says Gordon.
Gordon returned to college after an 18-year hiatus. As a senior majoring in social work at GSU, Gordon has earned a 4.0 GPA and is in the University Honors Program. He is the president of the GSU Social Work Student Organization and participates in lobbying efforts to involve state government in issues related to social work and helping others.
“Darwin is an outstanding individual. He has set goals to further his education in preparation for impacting change in his community,” said Dr. Lori Glass, Assistant Professor of Social Work. “He is an exemplary student with outstanding leadership skills. He is an excellent model of good citizenship and leadership.”
