Carlos Abrams of Missouri State University’s Iota Beta chapter has earned Theta Chi Fraternity’s highest collegiate honor for his outstanding service to the university, fraternity and community.

He received the 2025-26 Reginald E.F. Colley Award at the Theta Chi Fraternity’s 170th Anniversary Convention on July 11 in San Antonio, Texas. First presented in 1929, the award is named for Colley, a World War I veteran and past member of Theta Chi’s board of directors, the Grand Chapter. As a member of Phi Chapter, Colley developed a celebrated reputation as a campus, community and civic leader.

View Abrams’ acceptance speech

Abrams, who graduated in May with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in human resource management, stood out among over 9,000 collegians across North America.

“Receiving this award is a true honor. I see it as a reflection of the people, experiences and opportunities I’ve been blessed with here at Missouri State,” said Abrams, a native of Willard, Missouri.

He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in defense and strategic studies at Missouri State.

Active campus involvement

While maintaining a 3.69 GPA, Abrams served in leadership roles in his chapter, campus, professional organizations and the broader fraternity and sorority community.

“Carlos is an exceptional student at Missouri State whose leadership, character and sustained record of impact make him an extraordinarily deserving recipient of this recognition,” said Dr. Dee Siscoe, vice president for student affairs.

In 2024, Abrams was crowned Missouri State Homecoming king. He was also inducted into The 1905 Society, received the STAR Outstanding Sophomore Award and earned the MarooNation award, which recognizes students who have overcome hardship while making a meaningful impact on campus.

In the Iota Beta chapter, Abrams served as vice president and standards board chairman. He made an early impact as a freshman fundraising chairman for his pledge class. As vice president, he strengthened accountability and internal operations while helping drive chapter growth.

He helped to recruit the largest spring pledge class in Iota Beta history. He played a key part in campus and interfraternal competitions, including a Greek Week victory, a Greek God victory and a second-place finish during Homecoming Week.

Through the Student Government Association, Abrams served as a senator, chief Wyrick commissioner, communications commissioner and a member of the university’s strategic planning committee.

In addition, he contributed to academic and professional organizations on campus: president of Psi Chi Honor Society, president of Missouri State’s Society for Human Resource Management chapter, and president and treasurer of the Order of Omega Honor Society.

Engagement in the community

In the Springfield community, Abrams served as a junior board member for the Lost & Found Grief Center and on its Run & Remember committee. He supported long-term planning and major events for the organization, which helps individuals and families navigate life after loss.

He also volunteered on the hospitality team at High Street Church.

“Throughout my college career, I’ve been fortunate to serve in leadership roles across campus, grow professionally, challenge myself academically and engage in the Springfield community in a meaningful way,” Abrams said.

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