University of the Pacific's Knolens Chapter of Mortar Board National College Honor Society has received the 2026 Silver Torch Award, a national recognition honoring chapters that demonstrate excellence in scholarship, leadership and service.

For Pacific chapter President Alexi Wettstein ’27, a psychology major, the recognition reflects the chapter's growth and commitment to building community across campus.

"We're really proud to be recognized for upholding the standards of the national organization," Wettstein said. "The award shows that we're continuing to focus on scholarship, leadership and service while making a positive impact both on campus and in the Stockton community."

Over the past two years, Pacific’s chapter has expanded eligibility to include rising juniors in addition to seniors, helping the organization grow to more than 50 members. This spring, the chapter welcomed its largest incoming class of new members.

Membership includes students representing every college and school at Pacific, creating opportunities for connections across academic disciplines and student organizations.

"One of the biggest benefits is the community," Wettstein said. "We have students from every major and every college, along with student-athletes, fraternity and sorority members and leaders from so many organizations. It's a chance to build relationships with people you might never have met otherwise."

Service remains central to the chapter's mission. One of its signature initiatives supports Mortar Board's national "Reading Is Leading" program, which promotes youth literacy.

During Pacific Trick or Treat, chapter members distributed information showing families how to obtain library cards while encouraging children to develop a love of reading. Members also hosted a creative storytelling activity that invited children to write their own stories.

"It was rewarding to connect with families while encouraging kids to read and be creative," Wettstein said. "Those are the kinds of service projects that really bring our members together."

The chapter also encourages members to support one another by attending campus events, performances and competitions, reflecting Mortar Board's emphasis on leadership through involvement.

Founded in 1949 as the Knolens Women's Senior Honor Society, the organization was named in honor of Emily Knoles, wife of former Pacific President and Chancellor Tully Knoles. The chapter became an official Mortar Board chapter in 1967 and expanded membership to include both women and men in 1975. For more than 75 years, the Knolens Chapter has provided leadership and service to both the Pacific and Stockton communities.

Looking ahead, the chapter plans to strengthen connections with alumni through a Homecoming and Family Weekend event and expand volunteer opportunities during Mortar Board Week in the spring, when chapters nationwide highlight their service efforts and celebrate members' contributions.

"As our membership continues to grow, we're excited to create even more opportunities for service, leadership and connection," Wettstein said. "Receiving the Silver Torch Award is an honor, but it's also motivation to continue making a difference on our campus and in our community."