DURHAM, N.C. – Emory & Henry University senior center Chelsi Hodges (Boone, N.C.) has been named to the inaugural class of Kay Yow Servant Leaders by the Kay Yow Cancer Fund.

Hodges was presented with the award prior to tipoff of the Wasps' game against Coker University on Wednesday, December 4.

The Kay Yow Servant Leader Award honors Coach Yow's legacy and the young people who carry the fight to make a difference in the world forward. It is presented annually to student-athletes who best embody the characteristics of Coach Kay Yow – people with a servant's spirit and a commitment to selfless leadership both on and off the court.

Recipients of the Servant Leader Award are people of great character who put the needs of others before their own, who uplift others, and who do it with grace and humility. They are nominated by their coach, and are people who exemplify Coach Yow's spirit and who reflect her resolve, grace, generosity, and servant's heart. Winners display courage and strength, and their first response is to give to others.

Hodges is the definition of a servant leader, as she is the president of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, a leader of the women of faith, and a captain and the chaplain of the women's basketball team.  She leads by example and cares for others before thinking of herself.

As a Kay Yow Servant Leader, Hodges will wear a special patch on her uniform for the 2024-25 season. The patch embodies the character traits of Kay Yow – uplifting, powerful, drawing and giving strength. It is a representation of the "ripple effect" of servant leadership and the positive impact it can make in the fight against all cancers affecting women. 

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