Anabel Rodriguez is actively involved in many organizations at UTK. This Pre-Med Psychology major has a resume full of the incredible effort she has displayed during her time as a Volunteer. She is the Director of Scholarships of Delta Gamma Fraternity, a member of the Order of Omega Honor Society, a member of the Minority Achievement Program, a researcher at the biochemistry and cellular and molecular biology department, and a volunteer for several local organizations.
But I want to put Anabel in the spotlight for being a leader among the leaders at UTK. Anabel is president of UT’s Mortar Board. She has worked very hard to be academically and personally successful, and she has definitely succeeded! Her Campus loves to see women working hard and really making a difference at their university. With her dedicated work ethic and lovely personality, I have no doubt that Anabel will accomplish all of her goals.
Tell us about Mortar Board, what it is and what the board does on campus.
Mortar Board is a national honor society that recognizes college seniors that exemplify high standards in leadership, scholarship, and service. The members of the 2010-2011 Cap and Gown Chapter at UT have an average GPA of 3.82, are leaders of various student organizations at UT, and participate in community service events around the area of Knoxville.
What is your roll as President?
As President I am responsible for organizing the events that Mortar Board participates in as well as working with the other members of the executive committee to ensure that Mortar Board operates smoothly. I communicate with national Mortar Board contacts and maintain a regular meeting schedule. However, my most important responsibility as Mortar Board President is to be a supportive leader to the students who are already considered to be leaders at the University of Tennessee.
How long have you been in Mortar Board?
I was initiated in the Spring of 2010 and ran for office that semester.
What made you decide to apply, and then to move into an executive position?
Membership in Mortar Board is highly competitive and prestigious and it was something that I had been working towards since my freshman year. Therefore, I applied as soon as I received an invitation and was eligible for membership. I ran for office because I felt that I had the skills and motivation to lead a remarkable group of students to success.
What is your favorite part about UT Mortar Board?
Although I have been involved in various organizations, Mortar Board is special because it is a group of students that have the desire to positively impact our campus and community. Therefore, the best part about being a member of Mortar Board at UT is the fact that I am constantly surrounded by these students that work together to make a difference.
Why do you think it is an important asset to our university?
Mortar Board is an important asset to UT because it brings together some of the greatest leaders of our campus. It is also an important asset to our community because we contribute to not only our campus but the Knoxville area through organizations such as the Red Cross, Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic, and Second Harvest.
What are your hopes for Mortar Board while you are president? What about after you have graduated?
I hope that during my year as President I have been a supportive leader to my fellow chapter members and made a positive impact in our organization as well as our campus. After graduation, I hope Mortar Board continues to be one of the most prestigious and involved campus organizations at the University of Tennessee. I would hope that in the years to come, Mortar Board gives many other students the opportunities and skills that it has given me.
What does it mean to you that Mortar Board was the first national organization honoring senior college women?
Although Mortar Board recognizes both men and women today, it is an honor to be part of an organization that was created to motivate and empower women to become leaders of society.
How do you think Mortar Board benefits its members?
Mortar Board is beneficial to its members because it allows them to interact with leaders of other organizations that they would otherwise not be involved with. It gives its members a place where they can grow and acquire leadership skills that will help them succeed as adults and members of society.