Darlene Brooks, director of Barret Library at Rhodes College, is a 2024 recipient of the Excellence in Advising Award presented by the Mortar Board National College Senior Honor Society. This celebrated distinction is presented to advisors who have demonstrated a commitment to the purpose of Mortar Board and who have gone above and beyond in their work with a collegiate chapter.
In addition, the Torch chapter at Rhodes is a 2024 recipient of Mortar Board’s Gold Torch Award, which honors chapters that are dedicated to the organizaton’s purpose and its Ideals and are active on campus in ways that improve the quality of student life.
Founded in 1918, Mortar Board recognizes college seniors for their achievements in scholarship, leadership, and service; provides opportunities for continued leadership development; promotes service to colleges and universities; and encourages lifelong contributions to the global community. Only a select few students on each campus are invited to join the esteemed society.
The Torch chapter at Rhodes was chartered in 1964.
Brooks has been an advisor at Rhodes for 11 years. According to the Mortar Board announcement, “She is in constant communication with the National Office and is often at the monthly Advisor Meet-Ups. The chapter has a 91.4 percent yield and has a record 74 members this year.”
Brooks holds B.A. and M.L.I.S. degrees from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She came to Rhodes in 2000 as an information services and electronic resources librarian and in 2008 became director of Barret Library.
“I am so surprised and happy to have been recognized for my role in advising the Torch Chapter of Mortar Board,” said Brooks. “The students in Mortar Board are high achievers, leaders, and believe in service. I am amazed every year by all the activities they participate in while maintaining very high GPAs! It is very rewarding to work with these seniors.”