Aaron Groomes, a senior exercise science major, has been selected Lander’s 2023 Orientation Leader of the year.
Nominated for the recognition by his peers, he is known as someone who “understands the mission of Lander’s Orientation which is to create a positive student experience.”
Aaron was recognized for his work at last year’s regional conference where he and another leader gave an award-winning presentation. He also did “a deep dive on diversity, equality and inclusion to make sure everybody that stepped foot on our campus felt involved and wanted,” Groomes remarked.
The Enoree native said he was introduced to the orientation program after he worked with Dr. Demario Watts on the homecoming committee.
Dr. Watts, director of Student Life and Orientation said, “Aaron is a great representative for Lander, extremely focused and motivated to get a task completed. I love his leadership style. Aaron is not someone with many words, but when he speaks, the room listens.”
Aaron’s leadership qualities are being utilized around campus. He has served as the Campus Activities Board (CAB) president for two years and worked in the Office of Student Life as a student leadership coordinator and assistant to the director for three years. He is a past president and current vice president of recruitment for Delta Sigma Phi fraternity.
Additionally, Aaron has been a presidential ambassador for three years. He was on the homecoming committee for two years and served as sports activity chair.
Aaron participates in several intramural sports, also. Outside of school, he enjoys disc golf, hunting, fishing, and watching football and baseball.
A high school football injury that required back surgery and physical therapy led to a new career path. “The physical therapists helped me both physically and mentally, which made me want to do the same for other people who have injuries,” Aaron said. That brought him to Lander for the exercise science program.
“After graduation in May 2024, I plan to return to Lander University to get my master’s degree in either business administration or exercise science,” Aaron said. “I also hope to work as a graduate assistant in the Office of Student Life for orientation programs.”
Groomes said he also plans to pursue a doctorate in physical therapy in the future.