Trinity Recognizes Catherine Yonker Award Recipients
The Campus Diversity and Unity Committee (CDUC) at Trinity Christian College is pleased to announce that this year’s recipients of the Catherine Yonker Award are Carvell Anderson ’26 and Dr. Leah Fulton.
The Catherine Yonker Award has been awarded annually since 1989 to a member or members of the Trinity community–faculty, staff, or a rising senior student—in honor of their positive influence and action toward the goal of Christian racial reconciliation and cross-cultural understanding. The award’s history is deeply intertwined with Trinity’s early years, given Catherine Yonker’s significant contributions as an executive secretary and founding member of the Trinity Women’s Guild and her husband’s philanthropic support for the College.
Anderson was a 2022 Founder’s Scholar and has consistently upheld a rigorous reputation through his academic excellence and leadership contributions. During his time at Trinity, he has held leadership positions in both student activities and as a spiritual life coordinator.
He actively contributes to campus life both in and out of the classroom, participating in the Gospel Choir and the Black Student Union (BSU). Notably, his peers recently selected him as the inaugural winner of the BSU’s Black Excellence Award. Additionally, he had the opportunity to interview renowned evangelist, apologist, and author Preston Perry during Perry’s recent visit to the campus. Looking ahead to the upcoming academic year, Anderson plans to serve as an Outcry leader in addition to his current roles.
At this year’s OPUS event, Anderson presented on the YN phenomenon among young Black men. The strong attendance demonstrated his influence and respect within the Trinity community. He is recognized on campus as a bridge builder, connecting people from different backgrounds and perspectives to foster unity for the glory of God.
As an emerging educator, Anderson addresses the cultural and racial realities faced by Black individuals in the Church, in education, and in various aspects of life. He is truly a lover of God and people.
Dr. Leah Fulton, the vice president for student life, began her impactful journey with Trinity in the 2021-22 academic year. After a year, she fully transitioned into her full-time role, marking the beginning of her impactful career at Trinity. Throughout her tenure, her work has proven an unwavering commitment to fostering equity and empowerment among students within the campus community.
She has played a pivotal role in establishing Trinity’s Table, a vital resource designed to address and combat the pressing issue of student food insecurity. Through her passionate advocacy and dedication, Dr. Fulton has worked tirelessly to champion the allocation of necessary resources that not only bolster student leadership but also promote academic achievement and success.
As a devoted advisor to numerous student organizations, she invests her time in nurturing the talents and gifts of all students. She serves as a trusted mentor, cultivating an enriching campus culture where every student feels acknowledged, supported, and deeply valued. Her profound impact on the Trinity community goes beyond individual interactions; she has transformed the overall student experience, fostering a warm and welcoming environment that encourages collaboration and growth among all students. With her leadership, Trinity is truly a place where every student can thrive.
Trinity Christian College proudly recognizes Anderson and Fulton as the recipients of the 2025 Catherine Yonker Award and looks forward to their continued contributions to the College.
