Building on Strength: Davidson College Celebrates Employees

“Thank you so much for all you do for Davidson,” College President Doug Hicks said. “Today is about celebration, a well-deserved moment. Thank you for everything you pour into Davidson. Like the rain coming down today you pour so much into this place.

“Our theme this year has been building on strength,” Hicks said. “Every moment on this campus, every student mentor, every problem solved, every pristine space, every warm greeting that happens because of your dedication— you are the core of the strength of this special place.”

Hicks had some fun switching through a variety of head gear as he thanked employees from various divisions, switching from construction hard hat to lacrosse helmet to academic tam and cowboy hat. 

“Five days ago, we watched the graduates cross the stage at Commencement,” Hicks said. “That milestone belongs to our students, but you are all such a key part of making that happen every single year.”

Retirees

Retiring employees and their families enjoyed a pre-event breakfast in their honor. Areas of campus from Academic Affairs to Finance & Administration to Athletics to Student Life and College Relations congratulated their departing colleagues. 

2026 Retirees

Employee Awards

Spirit of Davidson Award: Frank Gibbs

Students nominate staff members for the Spirit of Davidson Award, which is given annually to an hourly employee who has been at the college at least three years, who acts in accordance with the Honor Code, and who excels in service and support to Davidson College and its students.

Students said of this year’s recipient Frank Gibbs, Physical Plant warehouse clerk, that he will do everything to help when asked for a favor, he always takes the time to speak and get to know the people on his delivery route, and that he can be counted on to go above and beyond to provide excellent service.

Student nominations went to say that Frank “always shows up with a good, kind attitude and treats student workers with a warm heart and a smile, and that his unwavering dedication and invaluable assistance truly encapsulate the spirit of Davidson.”

It’s the 15th year of the award that Kathy and Gary Parsons established in appreciation for the caring way the staff treated and supported their son Mike ’08. The original $850 award has increased to $2,000 via an additional gift to the endowment of this fund made by Donna Molinek, retired professor of mathematics, and Frank Molinek, friend to many Davidsonians, and additional funds from the College President. 

Hackenson Family Fellowship: Anna Stovall

Anna Stovall “is a true unsung hero who never draws attention to herself, yet consistently acts with immense grace, empathy and care. Working in a space that can often be stressful for families, she has a remarkable ability to listen deeply.” 

As associate director of financial aid “her strategic, forward-thinking approach allows families to plan proactively for the future—guiding them through multi-year scenarios long before they arrive. When she must deliver difficult financial news, it is the profound empathy and compassion in her voice that families remember.” 

Nominators said that the day before graduation her office is packed with families who return simply to express their deep gratitude for the care that enabled their children to attend and thrive at Davidson.

Presented by Chief Human Resources Officer Katie Germana, the award, established by Elizabeth and Bill Hackenson in honor of their son Billy’s 2013 graduation, recognizes a staff member who provides superior service to Davidson College and its students, going above and beyond their job responsibilities to mentor students and enrich the campus community. The $5,400 award is intended for travel or continuing education.

Inclusive Excellence Award: Alexis Fintchre

Center for Student Health and Well-Being Counselor Alexis Fintchre “has built structures that connect people across roles—fostering trust, shared learning and accountability… she ensures that programming and messaging reflect the full diversity of the campus community.”

When existing systems and language no longer aligned with the center’s values, Alexis led the process of guiding her colleagues toward a more authentic, actionable statement that was theirs. 

“That’s the kind of problem-solving that doesn’t just fix a document. It strengthens an entire team’s sense of purpose,” read one nomination.

Presented by Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Chloe Poston, the $10,000 award recognizes a person who transforms Davidson into a community where everyone truly belongs—someone who champions inclusivity every day, removes the barriers that hold colleagues and students back, and empowers the people around them to thrive.

Matthews Travel Endowment: Meredith Mumma

For roughly 15 years, Director of Academic Finance Meredith Mumma “has poured her heart and soul into supporting Davidson’s faculty, staff, and students with bone-deep kindness and unwavering commitment.”

Described by her nominators as a colleague who consistently puts the needs of others above her own, she has become the indispensable “glue” holding the division together through every institutional transition. She is an unwavering advocate for her colleagues who handles every intense challenge with a signature mix of patience, humor and grace.

“…she has stepped well beyond her formal responsibilities to serve the college in moments of crisis and transition. During the disruptions of the pandemic, she worked meticulously to equip the division for remote work, while keeping the team connected in community…she has coordinated critical logistics to ensure the safety of faculty and students facing emergencies overseas...” said one nomination.

Another nomination referred to Meredith as a natural peacemaker who excels at finding common ground, whose administrative insights have been crucial to launching major new campus initiatives and who acts as a trusted guide to everyone who turns to her for advice.

Frank Matthews ’49 established the gift in memory of his brothers, Eugene Robinson Matthews ’36 and James Houston Matthews ’50. He directed this grant be made annually “in due recognition of the outstanding and unselfish service rendered Davidson by members of the college family.” The $20,000 award covers travel for the recipients and their families, “to afford opportunities for personal renewal and enjoyment.”