The Heart of the Pack: Celebrating Excellence at the Wolfies

Laughter echoed, and the buzz of conversation filled the space as Wellness and Recreation gathered to celebrate its most valuable asset: its student employees. The annual Wolfies celebration is always a deeply meaningful event. It’s a chance to step back and truly appreciate the incredible dedication and passion our student employees bring to our department every single day. 

Among the many accolades and moments of recognition, one award holds a particularly special place: the John F. Miller Award. Named after a true visionary, John F. Miller was the first Department Head of Physical Education and Athletics at NC State and the driving force behind the state of North Carolina’s first Intramural Sports program. His legacy of leadership, commitment and a deep belief in the power of healthy, active lifestyles continues to inspire us all. The John F. Miller Award is bestowed upon a student program assistant who embodies these very qualities, demonstrating exceptional leadership, teamwork, a commitment to well-being, professionalism and a positive representation of Wellness and Recreation.

As I looked out at the faces of our hardworking student staff at the Wolfies, I felt a swell of pride. The nominations for the John F. Miller Award this year were truly inspiring, each story highlighting the remarkable contributions of our students. It was a testament to the talent and dedication that fuels our programs and enriches the lives of our Wolfpack community.

As the moment arrived, a hush fell over the room. The spotlight focused, and Eric Hawkes, executive director began to weave a narrative, highlighting the exceptional qualities of this year’s recipient without revealing their name. The story unfolded, describing a student who had dedicated over three years to the department, a journey that began as a wellness assistant and blossomed into roles as an F45 Coach, a fitness instructor, and finally, a fitness program assistant. This individual’s widespread involvement spoke volumes about their commitment and their desire to truly live and breathe a healthy, active lifestyle within the Wolfpack community.

The narrative continued, painting a picture of someone who effortlessly fostered community, inspiring participants and motivating fellow team members with a collaborative and positive spirit. This student was described as someone who not only embraced teamwork but actively sought opportunities to contribute innovative ideas, directly supporting the fitness team’s vision for a dynamic and progressive program. The words resonated with the very essence of the John F. Miller Award: exemplary leadership, collaborative teamwork, unwavering commitment to healthy living, and outstanding professionalism.

Hawkes hinted at a future chapter for this remarkable student, a transition to service and leadership on a larger scale, mentioning their upcoming commissioning as a Military Police officer in the Army following their graduation in May. A recent story on the Wellness and Recreation website, “From Push-Ups to Leadership,” further illuminated their incredible growth and impact within the department.

Finally, after building a sense of eager anticipation, the name was revealed: Becca Strong!

The room erupted in applause, a well-deserved recognition for a student who truly embodies the spirit of John F. Miller. Becca, your dedication, your passion and your unwavering commitment to the well-being of our Wolfpack community are truly inspiring. You are a shining example of the exceptional student talent that makes Wellness and Recreation such a vital part of the NC State experience. Congratulations on this prestigious honor!

Becca, I will miss seeing you at noon F45 classes, learning about your upcoming races and challenges and chatting about the monthly flavors at Two Roosters Ice Cream. It has been an honor working with you and I wish you the best as you embark on your next adventure.

To all of our incredible student employees, thank you. Your hard work, your enthusiasm, and your commitment are the very heart of our pack. Celebrating your achievements at the Wolfies is a highlight of my year, and seeing the impact you have on our students and our community fills me with immense pride.

Congratulations to the 2024-25 John F. Miller Award Nominees:

• Jay Charbonneau, Aquatics
• Kyleigh Pegram, Aquatics
• Divij Shah, Aquatics
• Jacob Biedrzycki, Facility Operations
• Morgan Miller, Facility Operations
• Becca Strong, Fitness
• Annabelle Rosse, Marketing
• Meagan Clarke, Member Services
• Michael McDermott, Member Services
• Charlie Buss, Sports Programs
• Emily Hall, Sports Programs
• Lauren Morrissey, Sports Programs
• Lilly Kirn, Wellness

History of John F. Miller Award Winners:

• 2023 – 24 | Kaylyn Poole, Facility Operations
• 2022- 23 | Joanna Wenchell, Member Services
• 2021 – 22 | Hannah Williams, Sports Programs
• 2020 – 21 | Bharat Karunakaran, Sports Programs
• 2019 – 20 | Jarred Taylor, Wellness
• 2018 – 19 | Jordan Kelber, Facility Operations
• 2017 – 18 | Chloe Shevlin, Fitness
• 2016 – 17 | Brandon Smith, Sports Programs
• 2015 – 16 | Kara Van Nice, Aquatics
• 2014- 15 | Zach Mehlenbacher, Sports Programs
• 2013 – 14 | Justin Mumford, Facility Operations, Member Services
• 2012 – 13 | Ryan Unsworth, Aquatics
• 2011 – 12 | Aaron Harper, Sports Programs
• 2011 – 12 | Brian Cox, Facility Operations