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Neville Arena transformed from a site of athletic triumphs into a space of academic celebration, as the Auburn University Honors College hosted its annual Induction Ceremony on Sept. 14. The college welcomed its newest Honors students in a moment that marked the beginning of their Auburn journey, formally welcoming them into a community defined by intellectual curiosity, ethical leadership and service-driven impact.

Each fall, the Honors College gathers students, families, faculty and university leadership to recognize the achievements of incoming students and affirm the shared values that guide their journey on the Plains. The ceremony marks a pivotal moment of transition from potential to purpose.

During the ceremony, students receive their Honors College pin, an emblem of membership and a symbol of the rich undergraduate experience that lies ahead. This token represents not only inclusion in the community, but also the promise of academic excellence, personal growth and meaningful impact.

Five formally dressed individuals stand in front of a festive balloon backdrop featuring blue, orange, and silver balloons, along with large illuminated letters spelling 'HONORS.' Each person holds up an Honors pin.

A Community United in Purpose

Master of Ceremonies and Honors College Director Laura Stevens welcomed attendees and set the tone for a celebration of student achievement and shared purpose.

Stevens emphasized the college’s deep commitment to academic excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration, noting the presence of university leaders from across campus. Those recognized included President Christopher B. Roberts, Provost Vini Nathan, Associate Provost of Academic Affairs Chase Bringardner and deans and associate deans representing nearly every academic college.

Among the most meaningful parts of the ceremony were the words shared by Roberts, encouraging students to continue their path to greatness.

Stevens highlighted his scholarly achievements and leadership, noting that “the immense power of mind that Dr. Roberts has brought to his teaching and research also clearly guides and energizes his role and work now in leading Auburn University.”

His presence at the ceremony underscored the university’s commitment to supporting Honors students at every stage of their academic journey.

Reflecting on the day, Stevens shared, “Looking out from the stage and seeing the rows of our newest students, surrounded by their families, deans and university leaders — it was truly a powerful reminder of the community that uplifts and believes in them. The event crystallized our motto, ‘Challenging Minds to Change the World,’ and I left filled with pride and hope for the future they will shape.”

Two individuals on a stage during a formal event. One person is seated in an armchair on the left, while the other stands at a wooden podium with a microphone and emblem. The stage is decorated with green plants and a large floral arrangement of blue, white, and orange flowers. Grey curtains and blue seating areas form the background, with an audience visible in the foreground

Reflections from an Honors Alumnus

One of the most memorable moments of the afternoon came from guest speaker Jack Janik, a 2023 Honors alumnus and currently a technology solutions professional at ExxonMobil. He shared his personal journey from Katy, Texas to Auburn, reflecting on the leap of faith that brought him to campus and the community that made it feel like home.

“Honors wasn’t just a program, it became a family,” Janik said, “It’s about building a legacy that goes beyond grades and resumes, one rooted in empathy, service and connection.”

He recounted formative experiences through Honors Serves and the Honors Ambassador Program, emphasizing how service and mentorship shaped his growth as a communicator, leader and professional. Janik’s speech, delivered on his 26th birthday, was both a celebration of his own journey and a call to action for the newest inductees.

“Lean in. Say yes to the opportunities. Serve the community. Ask the bold questions,” he urged. “And never forget that the most meaningful part of this experience is the people you help along the way.”

A hand holding a clear plastic case containing a round medallion. The medallion displays an embossed image of a building with the text 'THE HONORS COLLEGE OF AUBURN UNIVERSITY' around the edge, signifying academic recognition.

A Charge to use the Mind Well

In her keynote address, Stevens offered a compelling reflection on what truly defines an Honors student, not just academic achievement, but a deeper engagement with learning and the world.

“You are great students,” she began, “but what brings you here is something more.”

She described Honors students as those who “pour more of themselves into the act of learning,” whether quietly observing or actively contributing, and emphasized the Latin root of the word education — “to lead out.” This, she explained, is the essence of the Honors experience: a journey that draws students beyond the confines of self and into meaningful engagement with others and with ideas.

Stevens then introduced a new tradition she began during her tenure: a bookmark bearing a quote that serves as a thematic charge to each incoming class. This year’s quote, from philosopher and mathematician René Descartes, reads:

It is not enough to have a good mind; the main thing is to use it well.

René Descartes

She emphasized Descartes’ call to reason, evidence and intellectual responsibility.

"Use your mind well,” she urged the students. “Have the bravery to let your care for others and your passion to improve the world drive your learning.”

The ceremony concluded with a collective affirmation, as students stood and recited the Honors College pledge, committing themselves to truth, curiosity, integrity, compassion and the betterment of the world.

The Honors Journey Begins

“Attending the Honors Induction Ceremony really got me excited to be a part of a community of hardworking and passionate students and faculty that I can learn from,” said Matthew Cain, a newly inducted Honors student. “It gave me a glimpse of the amazing learning opportunities that the Honors College here at Auburn has to offer, and I am excited to further explore many of those opportunities over the next four years.”
As the ceremony concluded, students exited the arena not only with a pin, program and booklet but with a renewed sense of purpose.
We’re proud to welcome a new class of scholars into our Honors family, ready to question, contribute and lead with purpose. Though each journey is unique, students shared a sense of excitement, pride and readiness to make their mark on campus and beyond.
With their pins in hand and purpose in heart, the Class of 2025 begins their Honors journey.