Haley Grime was named the recipient of Lee University’s 2025 Zeno C. Tharp Award and was recognized for this honor during a special chapel service.
The Zeno C. Tharp Award is given annually to the Lee senior who shows the greatest promise of making a significant contribution to the Church. Established in 1955, the award is named in honor of the sixth president of Lee, who served from 1935-44. Each department may nominate one student for the award, and a winner is selected by faculty vote from the group of nominees.
“Haley exemplifies the highest standards of service, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to the local and global ‘backyard,’ in keeping with the spirit of this award’s namesake,” said Dr. Alex Sandoval, chairperson for the Department of Early Childhood, Elementary, and Special Education. “Her life reflects a profound sense of mission, responsibility, and dedication, making her an ideal recipient for this esteemed recognition.”
Ms. Grime is graduating this May with a Bachelor of Science in special education comprehensive K-12 and minors in TESOL (Teaching English as a Second Language) and deaf studies. Upon graduation, Ms. Grime plans to pursue a Master of Education in International Education Policy and Management at Vanderbilt University. After graduate school, she hopes to establish non-profit organizations that will better equip governments in their fair treatment and educational opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
“Impact is the word that comes to mind when I think of Lee University,” said Ms. Grime. “Lee has changed the trajectory of my life with the people I have encountered, the learning occurred in and outside the classroom, and the experiences I have had. Specifically in the College of Education, they have empowered me to become a lifelong learner, an honest teacher, and to believe in myself, and I am so thankful for a university that has believed in me and invested in me.”
During her time at Lee, Ms. Grime has served as a residential assistant for Atkins Ellis Hall, worked for a local non-profit organization, and completed internships in her hometown.
Ms. Grime has vast experience within her field, working as an intern at an international school in Germany, teaching English to various levels of students in the Sahara Desert, and ministering to a deaf residential school in Jamaica.
“We are confident that Haley will continue to make a lasting impact in the lives of others in the years to come,” said Dr. Sandoval.