Auburn Interfraternity Council Receives National Recognition

Honoring excellence in fraternity leadership and community impact.

By Hayley Joyner Pegues

Auburn University’s Interfraternity Council (IFC) received national recognition through the 2025 IFC Awards Program, earning multiple honors that reflect the council’s leadership, community impact, and commitment to student-led accountability within the fraternity experience.

The awards are presented by the North American Interfraternity Conference (NIC), the trade association representing more than 50 inter/national men’s fraternities across North America. The NIC supports fraternities and Interfraternity Councils through advocacy, education, and leadership development, while promoting strong standards related to safety, accountability, and student success.

Each year, the NIC recognizes Interfraternity Councils that demonstrate effective operations and alignment with NIC standards and IFC best practices. Auburn IFC was recognized in the following categories:

Outstanding IFC
Outstanding Community Impact
Outstanding Peer Governance

2026 Auburn IFC executive board accepting their recognition from Russell Best, COO of the NIC — The 2026 Auburn Interfraternity Council executive board accepting their recognition from Russell Best, Chief Operating Officer of the North American Interfraternity Conference.

The Outstanding IFC recognition highlights councils that excel in leadership development, service, and governance. Auburn IFC was recognized for its focus on meaningful community engagement and preparing students for leadership roles within their chapters and beyond.

Throughout the year, Auburn IFC engaged in service initiatives such as the IFC Murph Challenge and Batting Practice with Butch Thompson, along with mentorship efforts through Project Uplift. These opportunities allowed IFC members to connect with the Auburn community while making a tangible impact beyond campus.

Leadership development and accountability also remained central to the council’s work. Through its Cabinet and Delegate Program, Auburn IFC prepared emerging leaders for future service, while the IFC Court System reinforced fairness and responsibility through a student-led accountability process.

“We, as Auburn IFC, are incredibly grateful to receive these awards,” said Warren Ainsworth, Interfraternity Council president. “Auburn IFC is a unique council that we are proud to be a part of, and we are fortunate to follow in the footsteps of past IFC leaders who set a strong foundation for this recognition. These awards reflect years of upholding a high standard within Auburn IFC.”

In recognition of Auburn IFC’s achievements, Russell Best, Chief Operating Officer of the North American Interfraternity Conference, visited Auburn University to present the awards in person. The presentation took place during the 2026 Greek Excellence Awards Celebration, where the honors were shared with members of the Greek community.

“Auburn IFC’s recognition at the national level highlights the powerful role fraternities can play when students lead with purpose and integrity,” said Lindsay Holdren, Director of Greek Life. “Their efforts reinforce the value of the fraternity experience and its impact on the Auburn community.”

Through its emphasis on service, accountability, and leadership development, Auburn IFC continues to foster a fraternity experience that positively impacts both campus and community.