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Seifferlein with presenters Tom Skilling (left), meteorologist and 2023 Order of Lincoln award recipient, and Todd Shapiro (right), chancellor of the Academy. Photo by Zoey Duchene; courtesy of The Lincoln Academy of Illinois.

Concordia University Chicago senior Lily Seifferlein was named a Student Laureate and honored by The Lincoln Academy of Illinois at a ceremony in Chicago this October.

Seifferlein joins a group of top students recognized for excellence in both academics and extracurricular activities. Every year, each of Illinois’ four-year, degree-granting colleges and universities can select one senior to receive the award.

“Lily is an outstanding student-leader—showing courage, offering empathy, and upholding a life of honesty and integrity,” said Vice President for Student Success and Dean of Students Kathy Gebhardt. “It’s been a joy to watch Lily blossom during her time at CUC and we look forward to seeing how God will work through her future vocations to serve and lead as well. She has a very bright future ahead of her!”

At the 51st annual Lincoln Academy Student Laureate program, Seifferlein received the Abraham Lincoln Civic Engagement Award, a Lincoln medallion, a challenge coin, and a $1,000 check from The Lincoln Academy.

“I’m truly honored,” Seifferlein reflected. “The mission of The Lincoln Academy is to inspire the next generation of leaders and to honor the values of ‘leadership and service in the pursuit of the betterment of humanity.’ At Concordia-Chicago, I’ve both seen and learned that Christ-like service lies at the heart of leadership, a value that aligns closely with the purpose of this award.”

Seifferlein, an honors student majoring in strategic communications and English with a minor in theology, came to River Forest from Lancaster, PA. On campus, she works in undergraduate admissions, serves as a resident assistant, and participates in many spiritual life groups and activities. She said she chose Concordia-Chicago because she was excited to learn at a Lutheran institution, and that she loves being a part of a community where Christ is at the center.