George Fox Challenge Coin Tradition
At George Fox, our promise is that each student will Be Known – personally, academically and spiritually. Beginning in 2025, a new tradition brings this promise to life in a tangible way.
Each graduating undergraduate and graduate student will be invited to present a Presidential Challenge Coin to a person at George Fox who helped fulfill that promise – someone who made them feel seen, valued, and known during their journey.
How It Works
1. Receive your coin at welcome ceremony
First-year traditional undergraduate students will receive a Challenge Coin at the University Welcome ceremony.
Or receive your coin in YOUR final semester
Graduate students and seniors who did not previously receive coins will receive a Challenge Coin in their final semester at George Fox.
2. Present your coin to your chosen person
Students will then present the coin to a professor, staff member, mentor or community member who made a significant impact in their George Fox journey.
3. Share your Challenge Coin story
Students are encouraged to share their story by taking a photo with the recipient and sending an image or video to president@georgefox.edu.*
*By sharing, students give George Fox permission to use their story in official promotional materials (web, social media, etc.).
Introducing the Tradition
President Robin Baker will introduce the tradition to new undergraduate students during the University Welcome, explaining how each will receive a coin symbolizing the promise of being known – with the invitation to one day pass it on.
While the university makes a promise that students will be known, this is also a challenge – students have a part to play. We challenge you to play your part, to lean deeply into relationships, and to value those who make a difference in their journey.
A Day of Gratitude
Every December and April, we’ll host a Day of Gratitude before graduation. Seniors and graduate students can pick up their Challenge Coin at designated locations on campus and the alumni relations or student life offices during business hours.
Alumni Participation
Alumni are invited to join in this new tradition as well. If you’d like to present a Challenge Coin to a George Fox employee who impacted your life, you may purchase a coin for $10 by contacting alumni@georgefox.edu.
Want to Share Your Story?
We want to hear who made a difference in your journey. Whether you’re a current student, recent graduate or alumnus, we encourage you to send a photo or short video of your coin presentation to president@georgefox.edu.