University Commendations for Leadership and Service Recipient

Emily Pierce is graduating with a degree in writing, rhetoric and digital studies. She served as chair of the Student Niner Media Board, earning the 2025 Media Board Award, and secured $40,000 for a space‑renovation study through the Student Activities Fees Commission. Pierce has been a writing tutor, LEAD Team senior mentor and STARS coordinator in Leadership Fellows. She also supported early childhood literacy with the Black Child Development Institute of North Carolina and was selected as one of the 2025 Niner 9.