This year’s recipients of the CWC Servant Leadership Award, from left, Eli West, Dr. Jason Robinson and Macey Jones
During a chapel service, the Dr. Charles W. Conn Servant Leadership Award was presented to Lee students Macey Jones and Elisha (Eli) West, and faculty Dr. Jason Robinson.
The Dr. Charles W. Conn Servant Leadership Scholarship, established in 2003, honors President Emeritus Charles W. Conn. He served as Lee’s president from 1970 to 1982, and a spirit of servant leadership marked his tenure.
As a part of the university’s efforts to emphasize the importance of serving others, the award is given annually to rising seniors who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to service during their time at Lee. Students who receive this scholarship give a portion of the proceeds to a charity of their choice.
Ms. Jones is a senior theological studies major from Cleveland. She is a youth leader at North Cleveland Church of God and regularly volunteers with organizations such as The Caring Place, Second Harvest Thrift Store, Hope4One, and Night to Shine.
“It is such a privilege to receive this award,” said Ms. Jones. “I have heard about the remarkable impact that Dr. Charles W. Conn had on Lee University as well as my own family, and it is truly an honor to be recognized as someone who possesses similar qualities as him.”
Ms. Jones is actively involved in campus activities, such as her Greek club Delta Zeta Tau where she serves as the service coordinator.
“Macey is a true example of servant leadership, consistently serving others with joy, compassion, and a positive spirit,” said Dr. Louis Morgan, director of library services. “Her leadership is impactful and contagious, guiding others to model the same servant-hearted approach she embodies. Servant leadership flows naturally from Macey’s core, and we are all fortunate to experience the beauty of her influence.”
Mr. West is a senior theological studies major from Alpharetta, Ga. He is a resident chaplain for Bowdle Hall and has served as president of the Breakfast Club. Mr. West also regularly volunteers for Lee’s food bank and is a faithful member of The Chapel in Cleveland.
“I am extremely humbled to be thought of for this award,” said Mr. West. “Receiving this honor has reminded me of the scripture in James about being doers of the Word and not simply hearers. Ultimately, God gives each of us an opportunity to glorify Him by the good works that He has prepared for us day after day. I think that receiving this award is just a reflection of my attempt to walk in these good works.”
Mr. West has volunteered at the Leonard Center since his freshman year where he consistently and enthusiastically promotes the mission of servant-leadership.
“Eli has mastered what it means to lead with humility,” said Dr. William Lamb, director of Lee’s Leonard Center. “He is well liked by every student he interacts with and performs well in everything that he does yet somehow manages to remain one of the humblest students I know. Through his work in Residential Life and service clubs, he has had a direct impact on hundreds of students and an indirect impact on hundreds more through his work at the food bank.”
Dr. Robinson joined Lee’s Department of Early Childhood, Elementary, and Special Education in 2013, where he currently serves as professor of education. He is an active member of various university committees, such as Lee Day and New Student Orientation.
“Receiving this award is a true honor,” said Dr. Robinson. “As a professor, I view every interaction with students, both in the classroom and across campus, as a chance to lead with faith, consistency, and purpose. Jesus set the standard for servant leadership, and I strive to follow His example, knowing each act of service can have eternal significance. Showing up, being present, and trusting God to use it all makes a difference that lasts.”
In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Dr. Robinson has served as Faculty Athletics Representative for the university, director of Summer Honors, Gateway instructor, and Lee Baseball’s faculty mentor.
“Dr. Robinson’s involvement with Athletics, Greek Life, and the Summer Honors program is postured and rooted in service to everyone he encounters,” said Emily Makowski, an admissions counselor at Lee. “He always points any recognition back to the Lord, embodying the true spirit of servant leadership. His willingness to serve in every area, without seeking personal credit, deeply impacts those around him.”
Ms. Jones and Mr. West are the 21st group of students to receive this award, while Dr. Robinson is the 17th faculty member to be honored.