Madison Jolly is President’s Spirit Award Recipient

The 2022 President’s Spirit of East Central College award was presented to Madison Jolly during the May 14 graduation ceremony.

Jolly, of Rolla, graduated Cum Laude with an Associate of Arts in Teaching. ECC president Dr. Jon Bauer presented her with the award.

The prestigious President’s Spirit of ECC award, formerly the Outstanding Student Award, recognizes one student who demonstrates exemplary academic excellence, and significant student involvement during their time at ECC.

Jolly graduated with a 3.8 GPA and she has been an active member of the Beta Omicron Phi chapter of Phi Theta Kappa. Jolly also is a member of SMSTA, Student Missouri State Teachers Association.

Jolly will attend Missouri S&T in the Fall to finish her bachelor’s in middle school English education. Her goal is to become a teacher, and she believes that ECC has helped her tremendously in achieving that goal.

“My experience at ECC has been phenomenal. When I first started in August 2020, I had only been on my own for about a month,” Jolly said.” I was forced to start fresh with my life and ECC has helped tremendously.”

“Throughout my experience, I have had teachers reach out to me and help me figure out the net steps in my life and for that I am forever grateful,” she added. “I am now in the process of pursuing my absolute dream job of teaching middle school. As I move on to Missouri S&T and eventually my own classroom, ECC will always have a special place in my heart.”

Greg Stotler, assistant professor of education and teacher education coordinator, taught Jolly in several classes.

“Ms. Jolly is one of the most driven students I have had,” he said. “Her passion for the teaching profession is commendable — she will be a future leader in our field.

“I am excited to watch the next chapter of her journey as an S&T Miner.”

Along with Stotler, other instructors agreed that Jolly is an excellent recipient for the award.

“Madison is an excellent student. She attends class religiously, pays attention, asks insightful questions, and completes her work on time,” said Timothy Deerfield, instructor of psychology and sociology.

“More than that, however, she puts effort into her work that is above and beyond what is expected. Even in upper-level courses, her work stands out as thorough and above average,” Deerfield continued.

“She is an excellent example of the quality of thought and work that we hope to see in our ECC students. Without a doubt, she deserves this award.”

Matthew Gifford, instructor of philosophy and religion, said Jolly has a bright future.

“Madison is 100 percent self-made and completely authentic. She will not be held back and will always overcome,” he said.

“Her future is bright; however, you will not find her in the spotlight, she will be helping those in need and doing what is good,” he commented. “If she chooses the life of fame and riches it will not be by chance, she will succeed and pull others up with her.”