Paragon Award Nomination  Lori K. Garrett Pi Omega Chapter Danville Area Community College Danville, Illinois Written by Jessica Pierce

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Her Energetic Web of Success . . .

Early 2001—new advisor Garrett cast her energetic web across an inactive chapter. Within 10 short months, she energized Pi Omega to Five-Star success. As the Twin Towers to the East fell to their knees, Lori made the unbreakable commitment to build.

Lori maintains close relationships with members, administration, and our increasing community partners. She teaches high overloads each semester and also directs the DACC Scholars Program. Her commitment is not easy- she lives 40 miles from our college and community- yet she is well known throughout both.

Lori actively ensures our presence at all Regional and International events. She assisted our Regional campaigns in 2003 (President) and 2004 (Secretary), and we won both. While we were Regional President, Lori devised and helped implement the Regional Chapter Mentoring and Sister Chapter Programs. Through these, Lori's expertise in rebuilding a defunct chapter allows us to cast our own web of energy over faded or distant chapters, helping them grow and prosper as we have.

Lori serves on the Illinois Regional Advisory Board and is now Illinois Regional Alumni Chapter co-Advisor. In April, she was named to the All-Illinois Advisor Team; in June she became Illinois Region's 2004 Most Distinguished Chapter Advisor.

Last Fall, failure loomed as Pi Omega's President abruptly resigned two weeks before Fall induction and four weeks before hosting the regional convention.

Lori's expertise and calm hand carried our new officer team flawlessly through both events. With her guidance, the chapter presented an exceptional convention showcasing all hallmarks. Lori brought fellow Faculty Scholar, Johnna Atkinson-Bigelow, to reprise her cancer-battling performance that debuted at the International Convention. Lori's friends played our sock hop, and her independent producer/director pal showed his documentary about Lennon's impact on American music. With Lori's lead, officers maintained control and 200+ attendees felt welcome.

In 2004, Lori served her second year as a Faculty Scholar at the International Honors Institute. By invitation, she is presenting on small chapter recruitment at this year’s International Convention. We are also participating in Headquarters' pilot recruitment program. From our campus to International programs, Lori keeps Pi Omega involved at every level and leads with tireless energy and endless enthusiasm.

Knowing a chapter's success stems from individual growth and contribution, Lori gently coaxes members to go a bit further, to move beyond comfort zones and overcome personal obstacles. She worked closely with one officer to overcome fear of flying to attend Regional Leadership Days in Jackson. She helps members finish scholarship applications and pushes all to chase dreams relentlessly. Our goals become hers.

Lori spends many weekends, wee hours, and personal dollars keeping us thriving. Pi Omega is now the premiere student organization—first called upon and always ready to serve. Away from Pi Omega, Lori is in the 2004 Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers and received the 2003 ACCT William H. Meardy (National) Faculty Member Award. For Lori, though, success is never final, but merely a step along an exciting journey. Success is not awards, it is lives touched. Her success continues.