Recent graduate Tyler Benson ’23 has been awarded the Jack Mangham Experiential Learning Award from the Georgia Association of Colleges and Employers (GACE) for her outstanding performance as an intern with the Phil Olaleye campaign for Georgia House District 59.

The annual award recognizes students who exemplify the characteristics of effective experiential learning: excellent work habits, academic performance, and good citizenship.

Benson is the first Oglethorpe University student to receive the honor.

GACE receives nominations from employers and college representatives who can speak to the student’s academic success, campus involvement, and exemplary performance in an internship. Oglethorpe’s Director of Career Development Dr. Lisa Conley recommended Benson for the award. 

Tyler Benson ’23

“Tyler has been very intentional about pursuing internships. She is a bright, passionate, and goal-oriented student. She does not just set goals; she actively takes the steps necessary to achieve those goals and does so with great reflection and conscientiousness,” said Dr. Conley in her nomination. “In years to come, she will be part of the community we depend on to help make our world better.”

Benson graduated cum laude with a B.S. in psychology and a minor in political science. During her time at Oglethorpe, she completed four internships, founded the student organization Learning Our Curl Story (LOCS), and served as President of the Tau Pi Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Benson also presented her work experience as a legislative aide for the Phil Olaleye campaign at this year’s Liberal Arts and Science Symposium, which may be viewed below.

Benson recently accepted an offer to attend University of Georgia’s Master of Public Administration program on a full scholarship with a graduate assistantship. She is also working with the National Alliance on Mental Illness Georgia, an advocacy group that focuses on mental health .