Kaitlin Mixon receives 2026 President's Award for AUCON

Kaitlin Mixon of Fairhope, Ala., is the 2026 College of Nursing recipient of the President’s Award, one of the university’s highest student honors.

Given annually to one student from each college, the award recognizes students who demonstrate outstanding qualities of leadership, citizenship, character and promise of professional ability. Selected by the dean, Mixon received the award from President Christopher B. Roberts earlier this month at the annual President’s Luncheon.

“An incredibly dedicated student, Kaitlin approaches both her academic and personal pursuits with determination and heart,” said AUCON Dean Gregg Newschwander. “Beyond her outstanding academic achievements, Kaitlin is involved in a wide array of activities at both the college and university level. Notably, she has promoted the College of Nursing for the past two years as an Ambassador, serving as the organization’s treasurer and social media chair.”

Mixon, who will receive her BSN Saturday, has built a robust resume during her time at Auburn, becoming involved in several different campus organizations including the Women’s and Maternal Health Club; the Pediatric and NICU Club; the American Association for Men in Nursing; the Auburn Student Nursing Christian Fellowship; and Auburn’s Dance Marathon.

She has mentored an elementary-aged student through Project Uplift. In addition, she is a member of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, worked as a chemistry learning assistant and as a Tiger tutor for chemistry, and traveled with AUCON to Ecuador for a medical mission trip.

She has also been the recipient of eight different academic scholarships during her time at Auburn, a credit to her academic prowess.

“My Auburn Nursing experience has meant so much more than just nursing school. It has given me lifelong friendships, personal growth, and the opportunity to become the nurse I've always dreamed of being,” Mixon said. “AUCON has poured into me from day one and I cannot express my appreciation enough. Being truly known and supported has made all the difference in who I am today, both personally and professionally.”

Though her time at Auburn is coming to an end, Mixon has wise words for students who wish to follow in her footsteps.

“Don't be afraid! There are so many opportunities that will arise during your time in this program. Whether it be through organizations, leadership roles, research, or simply building relationships with your peers and professors, do not be afraid! At Auburn, you often hear ‘if you love Auburn, it will love you back’ and that couldn't be truer with the nursing program! If you pour into this program wholeheartedly, it will undoubtedly pour right back into you!”

After graduation, Mixon is returning to Fairhope to begin her nursing career in the brand-new cardiac stroke unit at Thomas Hospital.