ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú

Marketing

Charlotte, North Carolina

Will Brinley has made a transformative impact on ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú through his exceptional leadership as student body president and unwavering advocacy for student mental health. Will's tenure as president of the Associated Student Government has been characterized by contagious enthusiasm, genuine openness to ideas, and a commitment to inclusive partnerships.

Beyond Associated Student Government, Will has been an active contributor to fraternity life on campus, serving on his fraternity's executive board and as the Vice President for Recruitment on the Interfraternity Council. He strategically strengthened partnerships between the Associated Student Government and the fraternity and sorority community to create synergized programming.

As a member of ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú's Mental Health Committee and the Student Wellness Advisory Group, Will has advocated for new programs and funding for student mental health initiatives. A highlight includes his coordination of a panel discussion and dinner for over 100 students exploring the intersection of mental health and leadership.

One nominator wrote, "Will is a smile personified. It's hard to not feel some level of joy or inspiration when he is around... Will's impact on campus will continue long after his graduation."

Public Administration, Honors College

Buffalo Grove, Illinois

Mollie Duffy has made an extraordinary impact on ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú through her passionate commitment to civic engagement and voting rights. Her efforts to increase student political participation have transformed the campus voting culture.

One of Mollie's most significant achievements was establishing the democracy bus to provide free transportation to students who wanted to vote early at the Butler County Board of Elections. Through her roles as a Wilks Fellow for Civic Engagement, Secretary for Governmental Relations in Associated Student Government, and board member of the Oxford League of Women Voters, Mollie created non-partisan voter guides and worked to increase student voter registration. Her voter protection work has extended to helping citizens across 15 different states.

Additionally, Mollie provided leadership on campus through the Armstrong Student Center Board and in the classroom as an undergraduate assistant. She has conducted original research on environmental refugees as a Geoffrion Family Fellow, interned on campus, in Ohio, in Washington, D.C., and with the Democratic National Convention Committee, and was selected as one of just 20 Phi Beta Kappa “Key into Public Service” scholars nationwide. 

Biomedical Engineering, Premedical and Pre-Health Studies, Honors College

Pickerington, Ohio

Charles Ellis exemplifies academic excellence while demonstrating leadership and service across diverse communities. As a Presidential Fellow, Honors student, and Scholar Leader, Charles has consistently appeared on the President's and Dean's Lists throughout his ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú career.

During a study abroad program in Paris, Charles distinguished himself as an exceptional mentor to his peers. His final project, "The Unexpected Enjoyment of Being a Foreigner," showcased his commitment to cultural immersion and intellectual growth. His professor noted, "Out of approximately 3,000 undergraduate students whom I have taught over twenty-eight years, I would list Charles in the top 1%."

Charles's dedication to service extends to his roles as a Crisis Consultant at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and co-president of Active Minds, a student organization dedicated to changing the conversation about mental health on campus. He has also volunteered in the emergency room at Kettering Health while pursuing a Fulbright Fellowship to conduct medical research in Spain.

Charles is active on campus in several student organizations and has served as an undergraduate research assistant and a supplemental instructor for calculus.

Microbiology, Premedical Studies, Honors College

Avon Lake, OH

Jack Fazio has demonstrated exceptional service to ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú through his sustained advocacy for student mental health and his dedication to community care. During and after his two-year term as a Student Trustee with ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú’s Board of Trustees, Jack was instrumental in advancing mental health initiatives across campus, including the development of ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú’s Wellness Navigator Tool and serving on both the Institutional Mental Health Task Force and Mental Health Committee.

Jack's commitment to service extends beyond campus as a student EMT with the Oxford Fire Department, where he has logged over 850 hours responding to emergency calls while maintaining academic excellence. His supervisor noted, "Jack has stood out among dozens of Student EMTs for his reliability, dependability, and skill as a care provider."

Jack has also dedicated over 100 hours to mentoring elementary school children through Big Brothers Big Sisters, creating a safe and trusting space for children facing significant challenges. Additional contributions include conducting funded undergraduate research on immunology, serving on the Dean of the Libraries Student Advisory Council, serving as a CPR instructor for the community, and volunteering as a delivery driver for a local food pantry.

Political Science, Individualized Studies, Honors College

Lake Forest, Illinois

Grace Gaston has impacted ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú through leadership across five major campus organizations, while maintaining a perfect grade point average. 

As president of the JANUS Forum, Grace organizes events that bring together diverse viewpoints on important political issues, personally moderating discussions between prominent speakers in front of audiences of over 300 people.

Through her presidency of IGNITE: Women in Politics, Grace has grown the organization, working to promote women's participation in politics. As vice president of recruitment for Alpha Delta Phi sorority, she managed the complex process of interviews and selection for interested women. Grace also served as vice president of pre-law relations in the Amicus Curiae Pre-Law Society and as vice president of marketing for the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú Bridges program.

Grace has worked and interned with multiple organizations in addition to serving as an undergraduate assistant and engaging in research. Her original research on disability accommodations has earned multiple grants, allowing her to collect data for a potentially publishable study. Her professor noted, "I would put her in the top… of all of my students in 18 years of teaching."

Social Work

Dayton, Ohio

Mónnica Gay-Feliciano, pursuing dual degrees with a perfect grade point average, has transformed the Latiné student experience at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú through leadership and advocacy. As president of the Latiné Student Alliance and vice president of Sigma Lambda Gamma National Sorority, Mónnica coordinated cultural events and workshops reaching hundreds of students.

Her commitment to the student experience extends to her role of intern in the Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion, where she created initiatives to foster community among Latiné students, including the Latiné Student Townhall and Noche De Gala. She also established an initiative within the Latiné Student Alliance to engage Latino men in campus organizations where they previously felt disconnected. 

In addition to her impact on campus, Monnica has held several internships and contributed to communities outside of Oxford. Beyond her formal leadership positions, Mónnica is known for lifting up fellow students. One professor noted she "advocated for a friend's needs while still handling all of her own responsibilities," demonstrating her commitment to peer support.

Applied Biology

Williamsburg, Ohio

Skylar Gries has demonstrated dedication to both environmental stewardship and student mentorship throughout his ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú career. With a stellar academic record, Skylar has balanced rigorous coursework with multiple service commitments at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú Regionals.

As an embedded peer navigator in first-year experience courses, Skylar provided guidance to first-year students, creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment. His service extends beyond campus as a Naturalist Aide at local state parks and through his internship with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, where his initiative led to full-time employment opportunities.

Skylar's passion for sustainability is evident through his leadership as a founding member of the Outdoor Club and his role as an AmeriCorps Service+ member, where he educates others about composting, recycling, and the health benefits of plants. He has also contributed to the Regional Tutoring and Learning Center and Student Support Services, assisting students with various learning accommodations.

One nominator aptly describes Skylar as someone who "does so much and never shies away from helping more," embodying the spirit of service that makes him a deserving recipient.

Information and Cybersecurity Management, Entrepreneurship, Honors College

Okeana, Ohio

Levi Grimm exemplifies servant leadership through his dedication to addressing food insecurity and developing emerging leaders.

As co-founder and executive director of the nonprofit organization JEE Foods, Levi orchestrated the distribution of more than 10 million pounds of food to 90+ organizations across three states. During Hurricane Helene, he personally drove a tractor-trailer of food to isolated North Carolina communities over the weekend, returning in time for Monday classes.

Levi's commitment to service earned him a place in the prestigious Reagan Civic Fellows program and an internship with Congressman Warren Davidson.

On campus, Levi serves as treasurer for ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú's Food Recovery Network, helping facilitate the recovery of nearly 34,000 pounds of food from nine campus dining locations. He is also a student director at the Center for Business ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉúhip, where he leads peer coaching initiatives and applies leadership lessons to strengthen community impact.

One nominator wrote, “He strives for excellence in everything he dedicates himself to do, and he represents the best of who we are.”

Studio Art, Art Education

Hamilton, Ohio

River Kirby has made an impact on ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú and the broader community through his tireless advocacy, artistic leadership, and commitment to inclusion. As the co-president of Spectrum, ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú's largest LGBTQ+ organization, River created affirming spaces for students while organizing community events to foster belonging and connection.

River's dedication to service extends beyond campus to the Lane Library, where he developed and led arts programming for queer and trans youth in Southwest Ohio. This initiative has been so successful that the library requested its continuation as an ongoing program. His commitment to LGBTQ+ youth is further demonstrated through his role as coordinator for QT-Con, a two-day conference sponsored by the Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion.

As an Art Education major, River has excelled as a student teacher. His thoughtful curriculum development for ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú's Saturday Art program showcases his exceptional teaching abilities and socio-emotional literacy. He has presented his comprehensive guide for supporting LGBTQ+ youth through art education at the Ohio Art Education Association Conference. His leadership, compassion, and dedication to creating inclusive spaces make him truly deserving of this recognition.

Political Science, Journalism

Milford, Ohio

Nick McNeil has exemplified leadership and commitment to civic engagement throughout his time at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú. Appointed to a two-year term as a Student Trustee on the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú Board of Trustees, Nick worked with university administration and student leaders to address policies affecting the student experience.

As an ASPIRE intern, Nick contributed to advocacy events and university conferences, coordinating outreach efforts that engaged local, state, and federal officials to advance higher education interests. He represented the university at both the Republican National Convention and the 60th Presidential Inauguration.

As a member of the Government Relations Network, Nick has united students from diverse backgrounds, majors, and political beliefs. He served as a moderator during conferences to the Ohio Statehouse and Washington D.C., leading discussions about higher education policies with elected officials.

Beyond campus, Nick has served as a temporary clerk with the Clermont County Board of Elections, where his attention to detail and efficiency were crucial to ensuring smooth election operations. A nominator describes Nick as “a dedicated, driven, and capable individual with a passion for community improvement and public service."

Integrated English Language Arts Education

Westmont, Illinois

Jessica Miller has demonstrated leadership and compassion as president and music director of the Threshold Choir at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University. This intergenerational choir, composed of university students and Knolls of Oxford residents, brings comfort through song to hospice patients.

As choir director, Jessica revitalized the organization by increasing membership from just a few singers to a thriving group of regular participants. She approaches each hospice resident with care, seeking permission to sing and thoughtfully selecting songs appropriate for each individual's circumstances. Her ability to navigate emotionally complex situations with maturity and grace impressed both her peers and senior community members.

Beyond the choir, Jessica began her service journey as a freshman in the Opening Minds through Art program, building intergenerational friendships through virtual art sharing. Throughout her ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú career, she maintained these commitments while excelling academically, working as a writing tutor at the Howe Writing Center, completing her student teaching requirements, and serving as the DEI Chair for Delta Delta Delta sorority.

According to her nominations, “She is the perfect example of the kind of ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú graduate we can be most proud of."

Public Administration, Sustainability

Brewster, Ohio

Evelyn Morrison has made extraordinary contributions to ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University. As Chief of Staff for the Office of ASPIRE, she coordinated sustainability initiatives that addressed some of President Crawford's key goals for the university, representing ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú at the 2023 White House Forum on Campus and Community-Scale Climate Change Solutions.

Driven by her commitment to rural community development, Evelyn helped create the Hometown Talent Initiative in southwestern Ohio and conducted a two-semester independent study examining population changes in Preble County, where she personally conducted door-to-door surveys.

Evelyn excelled in the AmeriCorps Service+ program, where she helped secure over $400,000 in federal funding. She also coordinated the Government Relations Network ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉúhip and Advocacy Alternative Spring Break Conference, organizing meetings between students and elected officials at both the Ohio Statehouse and on Capitol Hill. Additionally, she served on the DEI Student Advisory Council.

Her nominators describe Evelyn as having “a servant’s heart” and as “one of those rare individuals who does not just lead by example, but by living” and whose “leadership and service reflect the highest values of our university.”

Speech Pathology and Audiology

Columbus, Ohio

As the 2024 Panhellenic Council president, Claire Ogden led a community of over 3,000 women across 17 chapters, facilitating discussions on diversity, inclusion, and risk management. She had previously served as vice president of philanthropy and service, helping the community complete over 40,000 service hours.

Claire volunteers with Opening Minds Through Art and the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú chapter of the National Student Speech-Language Hearing Association, while also providing direct patient services at the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University Speech and Hearing Clinic. She has made significant research contributions, co-authoring a peer-reviewed journal article and assisting graduate students with innovative research designs. Her academic achievements are reflected in her consistent placement on the President's List.

Claire worked at the Armstrong Student Center for the past three years, where she now serves as scheduling and events assistant, mentoring other student employees while maintaining close attention to detail.

According to a nominator, “Claire is the prime example of what a ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú student leader should be. She is steadfast in her dedication to all her commitments. She is humble and joyful and an absolute pleasure to have as a leader.”

Social Work, International Studies, Honors College

Columbus, OH

Debra Olabode has demonstrated exceptional dedication to improving the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú student experience. Debra was selected during her first year for the competitive Student Orientation Undergraduate Leader, or SOUL, position. She quickly distinguished herself through her positive attitude, work ethic, and inclusive leadership style, which led her being named as one of the two SOULs selected to serve as an Orientation Student Coordinator the following year.

In addition, Debra enhanced the residential student experience as a resident assistant and as a cluster advisor for the Scholars Leader Program. She extended her reach by taking on the role of academic senator for the College of Education, Health, and Society in the Associated Student Government, and served Alpha Phi Omega as the vice president of ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉúhip and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion chair.

Debra's natural ability to lead in a way that invites peers into the leadership process sets her apart from most undergraduate students. Her contagious presence motivates others to succeed alongside her. A nominator shared, “Debra is an outstanding member of the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University community; she spreads light everywhere she goes.”

Art Education

Dayton, Ohio

reilly Powers is an exceptional leader who promotes diversity, inclusion, and social justice through arts education. As president of ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú's National Art Education Association student chapter, she secured funding that enabled numerous students to attend state and national conferences, while also creating regular extracurricular arts programming for her peers.

Reilly's leadership extends beyond campus, having been elected to prestigious national positions in the National Art Education Association, including Western Region Pre-service Representative,  Advocacy Committee Representative, and most recently, Pre-service Division Director Elect—the highest national leadership role for pre-service art education.

Reilly presented at multiple state and national conferences on the concept of "Radical Education" and “radical hospitality” in arts education. Her research project, "Radical Learning Transforms," earned her recognition as one of 15 students to receive a Provost Student Academic Achievement Award.

As an instructor in ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú's Saturday Art program, Reilly designed innovative, materially complex lessons introducing middle school students to diverse artists while exploring themes of sustainability, identity, and socioemotional literacy.

Business Economics, English Literature

Pickerington, Ohio

Caroline Rowell's strategic leadership has transformed the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University Student Foundation (MUSF) while creating a lasting impact across campus. As executive chair, she oversees twelve peers and six subcommittees, skillfully balancing vision with operation to revitalize membership and prepare for MUSF's milestone 50th reunion.

Her marketing initiatives for MUSF's endowed scholarship program earned recognition with a Student Engagement, Activities and ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉúhip Award for "Best Social Media Campaign," amplifying the organization's visibility throughout the university and alumni network.

Caroline's talent for elevating others extends to her roles as vice president of scholarship and awards for Delta Sigma Pi business fraternity and her academic committee restructuring efforts within Delta Delta Delta sorority, which helped the chapter achieve the highest GPA among campus sororities. As a writer for The ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú Student, she connects Oxford students with the community and local businesses through engaging storytelling.

Caroline's signature approach—prioritizing team success over personal recognition—embodies genuine leadership that empowers those around her to excel. A nominator writes “Caroline exemplifies leadership by listening to and uplifting those around her, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.”

Biochemistry, Premedical Studies, Honors College

Louisville, Kentucky

Lilia Terrell exemplifies an unwavering commitment to helping others. As president of American Cancer Society on campus, Lilia personally raised over $20,000 for cancer research and patient support—exceeding what the entire organization typically raises in a year. Her leadership strengthened campus partnerships and expanded American Cancer Society initiatives across ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú.

Lilia's impact extends far beyond cancer advocacy. For more than a decade, she has volunteered with Barren Heights, supporting families of children with disabilities by providing childcare, coordinating retreats, and assisting with administrative operations. She also dedicated many hours to the Kentucky Humane Society, ensuring accessible veterinary services for low-income families.

Through Delta Epsilon Mu, Lilia mentors pre-medical students and volunteers with Oxford Seniors. Her service achievements are particularly remarkable considering she maintained a perfect grade point average in the Honors College and completed over 100 hours of physician shadowing while remaining active in Kappa Alpha Theta, the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú Women’s Club Lacrosse Team, Best Buddies, and conducting research with the Dr. John N. Alumassa Research Group.

Physics, Mathematics, Philosophy, Honors College

Bahraich, India

Sumit Tripathi has demonstrated academic excellence and citizenship throughout his time at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú, maintaining a perfect grade point average while dedicating himself to research and to supporting peers' educational journeys. Sumit has served as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant for Calculus and Physics courses and a Student Equity Ambassador for the College of Arts and Science.

His research accomplishments span multiple disciplines and institutions. He presented experimental biophysics research at the Undergraduate Research Forum and presented a philosophy paper at the Ohio Philosophical Association meeting. His global engagement includes particle physics research at the University of Glasgow and an internship at the University of Oxford, England.

Currently a Geoffrion Family Fellow, Sumit continues to explore the philosophy of physics, quantum theory, and the physical basis of consciousness. He's also served the university community in other capacities, including as a resident assistant, an Altman Fellow, and a member of the institutional task force on student, faculty, and staff mental health. His nominator notes, "Sumit has taken full advantage of all that it means to be a ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉúan and shown that ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú success stories go beyond Oxford, Ohio."

Psychological Science

Fairfield, Ohio

Zoe Wilson has made an incredible impact at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú's Regional campuses. As president of the Psychological Science Club, she has transformed the organization during challenging pandemic conditions, increasing participation from just a few students to a regular attendance of twenty or more. Under her guidance, the club has flourished with diverse educational and social programming, including presentations on cognitive aging, expressive therapy workshops, and hands-on laboratory experiences.

Zoe was also selected to serve as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant for Introduction to Biopsychology courses. In this role, she developed innovative learning materials, led review sessions, and assisted with laboratory dissections. Her thoughtful insights have enhanced student engagement with complex scientific concepts.

While maintaining this impressive level of service, Zoe works up to 30 hours weekly to fund her education and has been accepted into the selective 4+1 Psychological Science studies-Master of Social Work program. Her nominator notes, "It is absolutely amazing how organized and dedicated she is," highlighting her ability to balance rigorous academics, campus leadership, and employment commitments.