Tennessee Wesleyan University celebrated its Spring 2026 Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 9^th. As part of the ceremony, several awards are given in recognition of the outstanding academic work and service to Tennessee Wesleyan exhibited by members of the graduating class as well as community leaders and supporters of the university.

      The Mary Mildred Sullivan Awards and the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Awards are some of the most prestigious awards given out by TWU and are handed out to a female and male student as well as a female and male community leader annually during the university’s spring commencement.

       The Mary Mildred Sullivan Awards were established in 1940 and are awarded to a female student and a female community leader whose general conduct and relations with others indicate that they possess an awareness of the beauty and value of life, coupled with spirited helpfulness. The winners of the 2026 Mary Mildred Sullivan Awards were TWU student Alyssa Brides and community leader Mrs. Emily Forrest.

      Alyssa Bridges graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Pre-Professional Biology and a minor in chemistry. She was a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Natural Science Club, and Alpha Chi Honors Society, a prestigious, interdisciplinary honor society that recognizes the top 10% of juniors and seniors from the university. Bridges was also a member of the women’s soccer team.

       “It is truly an honor to receive the Mary Mildred Sullivan Award,” said Bridges. “Tennessee Wesleyan has had such a meaningful impact on my life, both personally and academically. Receiving an award that represents the values and attributes of TWU is incredibly special to me and reflects how influential this community has been throughout my college journey.”

       Bridges is currently applying to Physician Assistant school and hopes to pursue a career in surgery, continuing to serve others through medical mission work.

      Mrs. Emily Forrest was chosen as the recipient for the Mary Mildred Sullivan Award based on her devotion to the City of Athens and to Tennessee Wesleyan University. As a product of public schools herself, Forrest is a proud supporter and leader in the Athens City Schools’ system, having served as a school board member for multiple years. In 2024, she was awarded the Level 1 Boardmanship Award by the Tennessee School Board Association. She has over 18 years of volunteer board service, including the Auction Chair for the Athens Area Arts Council Annual Gala, the McMinn County Living Heritage Museum Board of Directors, Girl Scouts of Southern Appalachian Board of Directors, and the University of Tennessee Women’s Council. Forrest previously served as the Ingleside School PTO president.  In 2013, she was recognized by Chatter Magazine as a “20 Under 40” honoree. Forrest also serves in children’s ministry at Eastanallee Baptist Church.

       The Algernon Sydney Sullivan Awards, established in 1925, are given to a male student and a male community leader whose lives are a continuous expression of those high qualities which enable and beautify living and bind humankind in mutual love and helpfulness. The winners of the 2026 Algernon Sydney Sullivan Awards were TWU student Conner Craig and community leader Mr. Chris Adams.

        Conner Craig graduated with a degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in general management and industrial management. During his time at Tennessee Wesleyan, he was part of the cross country and track teams all four years and was the captain for both during his senior season. He also was part of the chapel leadership team and a member of the Bulldog Investment Club.

          “Winning this award means a lot to me because I have always strived to bring people together and love others like Christ called us to,” he shared. “I have tried to represent Tennessee Wesleyan at a high level and am truly honored to receive recognition for accomplishing these values that I truly strive for on a daily basis.”

        Now that he has graduated, Craig is joining the Construction Services department at TIS Insurance in Knoxville, TN.

        Mr. Chris Adams was selected as the recipient of the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award in recognition of his outstanding dedication to serving his community. A graduate of Tennessee Wesleyan, Adams has demonstrated strong leadership both professionally and civically. He currently serves as the Market President of Old National Bank.

        In addition to his professional role, Adams is deeply involved in community leadership. He serves as the Chief Volunteer Officer for the Athens/McMinn Family YMCA Board of Directors and is a member of the Athens City Schools Board, which he has served on for many years. In 2024, he was recognized by the state of Tennessee as a member of the All Tennessee School Board. In 2017, he was honored as the J. Neal Ensminger Man of the Year by the Daily Post-Athenian, an award that recognizes individuals who exemplify community service and dedication to others. Adams continues to give generously of his time, regularly volunteering with local service organizations such as United Way of McMinn and Meigs Counties and Kiwanis International. He also serves as a member of the Tennessee Wesleyan University Board of Trustees.