Austin Gothard, Iota Nu (Mississippi State), has been named the 2023 recipient of the Thomas Sayre Award. This award is named in honor of Thomas Sayre, Kappa (North Carolina), who helped establish PUSH America, the predecessor to The Ability Experience, as Pi Kappa Phi’s national philanthropy. This award recognizes a student member of Pi Kappa Phi who has demonstrated the most outstanding passion and dedication to The Ability Experience through service, raising awareness and fundraising.
Gothard attends Mississippi State, where he actively participates with Mississippi State University Autism Liaisons, a group serving students with autism to increase social and life skill behaviors. Additionally, he volunteers with the T.K Martin Center to serve preschool and kindergarten-aged children and students with dyslexia through art therapy and other activities. During his time as a member of the Iota Nu Chapter, he participated in Gear Up Florida 2022 as a cyclist and most recently served as the project manager for the Journey of Hope Trans America 2023 team. In addition, as a two-time Bergstrom fellow, he dedicated his summers to serving as a camp counselor at Camp ASCCA, seeing firsthand the abilities of all people throughout the summer. President and Executive Director of The Ability Experience Basil Lyberg shared, “In Austin, we see the embodiment of Pi Kappa Phi’s ideals. His selflessness and compassion inspire us all to create opportunities for others.”