Molly Harms of Springfield has been selected as the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) student recipient of the Student Laureate Award from the Lincoln Academy of Illinois. Only one UIS student is honored with the prestigious award each academic year.

“When I found out I received the award I felt so honored, surprised and excited,” said Harms, a 2020 graduate of Springfield High School.

At UIS, Harms is earning two bachelor’s degrees in public policy and political science. She is a member of the Capital Scholars Honors Program, where she is involved in the peer mentoring program. She is also a member of the Active Minds student organization.

“My favorite thing about UIS is the fact that even though it’s small, there are still plenty of opportunities for students,” she said. “We get the benefits of a small campus, but aren't limited in what we can achieve.”

Off-campus, she has interned with a local LGBTQ+ nonprofit and has volunteered with local political campaigns.

Following graduation from UIS, she hopes to work at a nonprofit organization doing work that involves policy development, analysis and advocacy.

Each year an outstanding senior from each of the four-year degree-granting institutions of higher learning in Illinois is awarded the Student Lincoln Academy Medallion and thereby becomes a Student Laureate of the Lincoln Academy of Illinois. Student Laureates are honored for their overall excellence in curricular and extracurricular activities and receive a $500 stipend.