UMO Faculty, Staff, and Student Organizations Honored at Chamber Banquet
February 4, 2026
Contact: Rhonda Jessup, Director of Public Relations
MOUNT OLIVE – A strong spirit of service and leadership was on display as faculty, staff, students, and campus organizations from the University of Mount Olive were recognized for their ongoing contributions to the community during the Annual Mount Olive Area Chamber of Commerce Banquet, held in late January at the Southern Wayne Country Club.
Presented by the Mount Olive Area Chamber of Commerce, the annual awards honor individuals and organizations whose work strengthens the civic, educational, and economic life of the Mount Olive community.
Spirit of the Chamber Award – UMO CFFA
Presented by UMO Alumnus and incoming Chamber Chair H.D. Grady, the Spirit of the Chamber Award honors a Chamber member that goes above and beyond in serving the Mount Olive community.
The UMO CFFA received one of two Spirit of the Chamber Awards this year, recognized on behalf of all student clubs within the School of Agriculture and Biological Sciences at the University of Mount Olive. The organization was honored for its extensive community involvement, including support of Chamber events, volunteer service at major festivals, coordination of youth and agricultural programs, and leadership in organizing AgFest, which brings hundreds of prospective students to campus each year.
Through partnerships with local businesses and organizations, UMO’s agriculture clubs promote leadership, service, and hands-on learning while making a lasting positive impact on Mount Olive.
Lillian B. Langley Business of the Year Award – the University of Mount Olive
The University of Mount Olive received the Lillian B. Langley Business of the Year Award, presented to a business with 16 or more full-time employees that demonstrates exceptional service to both its constituents and the broader community. One of the area’s largest employers, UMO was recognized for providing citizens with access to outstanding events that are free or offered at a low cost, including lectures, music performances, athletic competitions, and campus celebrations.
The University was also honored for hosting major community events such as AgFest, Pickle Classic Homecoming, STEM on the Green, the Christmas Tree Lighting, and the Pickle Drop, along with recruitment events, career fairs, and activities that bring together community members, high school students, and alumni. UMO employees actively serve on local boards and organizations, sponsor and promote other Mount Olive businesses, and create opportunities for students to shadow and engage with local employers. A nominator noted that “Mount Olive is so fortunate to have this business in our community.” The recognition comes as UMO is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year.
Lillian B. Langley Individual Service Award – Edward Olive
Edward Olive, a University of Mount Olive alumnus and Director of the Lois G. Britt Agribusiness Center, received the Lillian B. Langley Individual Service Award. The award honors a long-serving Chamber board member who consistently goes above and beyond through attendance, participation, and behind-the-scenes leadership.
Olive was recognized for being an asset to the Chamber board, his willingness to explore new ideas and events, and his consistent support of the Chamber and the Mount Olive community. Known for his positive attitude and approachable leadership style, he has served on the Chamber board for three years and was honored as the outgoing Chamber Chair, having led the organization during the 2025 year.
Together, the recognitions highlighted the many ways University of Mount Olive faculty, staff, students, and organizations contribute to the strength and success of the Mount Olive community.
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.
