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Clara Ragan wins President’s Award for College of Liberal Arts

As the College of Liberal Arts’ 2026 President’s Award recipient, Clara Ragan reflects the spirit of Auburn: a student who leads with purpose, listens with intention and is already making a lasting impact.

A double major in political science and philosophy with a minor in public health, Ragan built a strong academic foundation rooted in critical thinking, ethics and policy. She will graduate in May with a 4.0 GPA.

Internships with the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy and a district judge in North Alabama exposed her to the real-world connection between law, policy and public health, helping her see where she could make the greatest impact.

“My North Star has always been positively impacting as many people as I can, particularly those in underserved rural communities,” she said.

That sense of purpose is evident in both her research and her work in the community.

As an undergraduate research fellow with the Caregiver Initiative, Ragan designed and led a funded study on the accommodations process for pregnant and parenting students. She evaluated the impact of the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act and developed resources to help campus supervisors better support students navigating those policies.

As a Rural Health Fellow with Auburn’s Office of Public Service, Ragan worked closely with communities across West Alabama to establish health ambassador groups in four counties. She also supported outreach efforts that expanded access to care while starting conversations around rural mental health and chronic illness.

“Witnessing health disparities in marginalized populations both on campus and across the Southeast has made me deeply passionate about pursuing education in community-led research and program implementation,” Ragan said.

Her academic work reflects that same curiosity and drive. In philosophy, she co-authored research on perception presented at an international conference in Dubrovnik, Croatia. In political science, she contributed to research examining historical decision-making and patterns of civil conflict.

On campus, her leadership has been just as impactful. As president of UKirk Campus Ministries, vice president of the Philosophy Club and a member of the Student Government Association Lobby Board, she has helped create spaces for thoughtful conversation and genuine connection.

Through her work with Auburn Cares and Student Conduct, she helped streamline conduct record systems and expand access to naloxone across campus. As a University Housing resident assistant, she mentored first-year students and built programs that strengthened community within the residence halls.

Ragan’s consistent commitment to her studies, leadership and service has earned her one of the university’s highest honors: the 2026 President’s Award.

Presented each year to one graduating senior in every college, the award recognizes students who demonstrate outstanding scholarship, leadership, character and promise. Ragan represents each of those qualities at the highest level.

After graduation, Ragan will continue her education at Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health, where she will pursue a master’s degree in behavioral, social and health education sciences.

“From rural Alabama to Washington, D.C., and across Auburn’s campus, I have learned that real impact happens when we meet people where they are,” Ragan said. “I am eager to deepen this commitment and help build a future where public health policy and programs truly serve everyone.”

Tags: Students Political Science Philosophy