SPRINGFIELD, Missouri – The Department of Behavioral & Social Sciences at Evangel University has announced its 2026 graduation awards. The awards were presented during the traditional undergraduate baccalaureate service held on Thursday, May 7 in the Robert H. Spence Chapel.
Students in the Behavioral & Social Sciences Department desire to pursue a career in service to others, finding commonality under the banner of the “helping professions.”
Professors with real-world field experience offer innovative training in major degrees including criminal justice, government, history, psychology, social science, social science education, and social work. The social work program is accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
The following awards were presented:
Outstanding Graduate in Criminal Justice
Rylee Clapp
Outstanding Graduate in Government
Juhlin Medlin
Outstanding Graduate in History
David Herrada
Outstanding Graduate in Humanitarian Relief and Development
Macy Kopp
Outstanding Graduates in Psychology
Alexis Crowder, Macy Kopp
Graduates with Academic Honors in Psychology
Elias Aguilera, Rebekah Harper
Outstanding Research Graduates in Psychology
Star Foster, Christine McGough
Outstanding Practicum Graduates in Psychology
Chloe Froula, Vivianna Sanchez
Outstanding Graduate in Social Science Education
Brance Wunstell
Outstanding Graduate in Social Work
Maddie Tucker
Outstanding Research Graduates in Social Work
Lori Ann McClellan, Maria Morley, Alexis Sprinkel
Outstanding Practicum Graduates in Social Work
Cynthia Earl, Grace Jett
The Ryan Parke Hartje Award for Outstanding Student in the Behavioral and Social Sciences
Joy Breig
The Kendrick-Karmarkovic-Holsinger Award for Outstanding Student in the Behavioral Sciences
Grace Naylor
Compassion in Action Award
Alexis Sprinkel
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About Evangel University
Evangel University, with the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary (AGTS), is a comprehensive, Spirit-led Christian university in Springfield, Missouri. It is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities. Under the leadership of Dr. Mike Rakes, Evangel educates and equips students to serve the Church and society globally.
Recent recognition includes:
- Top 15% of Christian Colleges in America — Niche (2026)
- Top Performer in Social Mobility — U.S. News & World Report (2026)
- Best Christian University — Colleges of Distinction (2026)
Evangel also holds program accreditations in business, counseling, music, social work, and theology, and is certified as an Excellence in Giving university. Learn more at evangel.edu.