Caroline Sheaffer Receives the 2025 UMO Founders Leadership Award
November 18, 2025
Contact: Rhonda Jessup, Director of Public Relations
MOUNT OLIVE, NC – The University of Mount Olive has announced senior student-athlete Caroline Sheaffer as the recipient of the 2025 Founders Leadership Award, one of the University’s most prestigious honors. The award is presented in memory of Dr. W. Burkette Raper, who served as president from 1954 to 1995, and in recognition of the visionary leaders who founded the institution in 1951 and helped guide its growth through dedicated service, leadership, and support.
The Founders Leadership Award is given to a senior in the traditional program who demonstrates Christian character, strong initiative, and exemplary leadership qualities that reflect the mission and values envisioned by the University’s founders. The scholarship is payable toward future educational expenses at the University of Mount Olive.
Sheaffer was nominated by faculty and staff, including Michael Langley, who praised her commitment to faith, excellence, and service.
“Caroline exemplifies leadership, integrity, and purpose in everything she does,” Langley wrote in his nomination. “She boldly lives out her faith, serves as a role model to her peers, and consistently demonstrates compassion and humility. Her strength of character is evident in both her words and her actions.”
A standout member of the Trojan Women’s Volleyball Team, Sheaffer recently surpassed the milestone of 1,000 digs. Her athletic dedication is matched by her academic success, maintaining an impressive 3.8 GPA while balancing the demands of collegiate athletics and rigorous coursework.
“Caroline leads by example on and off the court,” Langley added. “She inspires others to strive for greatness, to live with purpose, and to lead with heart.”
Recipients of the Founders Leadership Award must have 91 or more earned credit hours and are selected from nominations submitted by University faculty and staff.
“Caroline’s character and leadership reflect the spirit of our founders and the mission of this University,” said UMO President Dr. H. Edward Croom. “We are proud to honor her with this award and look forward to the continued impact she will make.”
The University of Mount Olive is a private institution rooted in the liberal arts tradition with defining Christian values. The University was founded by the Convention of Original Free Will Baptists. For more information, visit www.umo.edu.
