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Thomas Jefferson Roberts served as a trustee at ������Ƶ from 1936 until his passing in 1959. In recognition of his faithful leadership and dedication to student success, ������Ƶ annually presents the TJ Roberts Award to one graduating male senior who demonstrates exemplary campus leadership and strong academic achievement.

The 2025–2026 recipient of the TJ Roberts Award is Mason Smith, a senior from Warsaw, Kentucky.

Ironically, Mason’s original plans didn’t include higher education. In high school, he didn’t maintain the best grades and didn’t feel ready for college-level coursework. Instead, he chose to enlist in the Marines.

However, just a few months into basic training, COVID-19 and rhinovirus hit his system, eventually causing brain swelling, major weight loss, and over a month of hospitalization. The physical and mental toll forced Mason to unenlist. 

After taking time to recover, Mason found himself ready for a new challenge—and he turned his attention to education. ������Ƶ stood out to him because of the beauty of campus, the strength of its track and field program, and its Christian principles.

Initially, Mason was nervous about entering college. But his experience quickly proved different than he expected.

“I discovered that UC has a strong sense of community and a student-focused environment,” he explained. “The supportive culture here has allowed me to thrive both personally and professionally.”

Mason’s growth from unsure freshman to confident leader is evident through the many roles he’s taken on at ������Ƶ. 

He competed on the Track and Field team and served in various leadership positions, including Patriot Success Leader, Resident Assistant, Residence Hall Leader, and member of the Campus Activities Board. He also worked closely with the Office of Undergraduate Admissions as a Summer Orientation Leader and Campus Ambassador, helping to welcome and guide incoming students.

“Opportunities in leadership roles have been the most meaningful parts of my journey,” Mason commented. “Through each role, I have had the opportunity to encourage students in their faith and support them in their academic and personal growth.”

Though Mason has poured himself into serving others, he’s quick to share how much the experience has given back to him.

“These opportunities have shaped me into a more confident and compassionate leader, coach, friend, and mentor, while also deepening my personal, spiritual, and professional development,” he added.

To Mason, the TJ Roberts Award, and every step along the way, has been made possible by the community at ������Ƶ.

“I’d like to say thank you to every department across ������Ƶ for the countless ways they’ve invested in me,” he said. “Their guidance, encouragement, and belief in me have been instrumental to my growth and success.”

Mason also made a point to thank several individuals by name; offering an apology in case he missed anyone:

“I want to especially thank my mom, my dad, President Quentin Young, Jerry Jackson, Crystal Coker, Whitney Baker, Brandy Martin, Courtnie Kirby, and the entire Admissions team (c’mon!) for the unwavering love, effort, and support you’ve shown me since day one. I will forever cherish the encouragement and care you’ve poured into my journey. Thank you for everything.”

Currently, Mason is working in admissions while finishing his degree. After graduation, he plans to pursue a graduate certificate and continue serving others through his work and leadership.

With the support of the ������Ƶ community behind him and a heart for leadership ahead of him, Mason Smith is well-prepared to make an impact wherever he’s called next.