ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú

Urban and Regional Planning, Sustainability, and Geography and Sustainable Development

Alexandria's passion for sustainability, dedication to serving others, and commitment to her studies have made a significant impact on the community. 

Alexandria has served in many areas across campus. She has been vice president of the geography and planning society, a student representative on the climate action task force, a member of the transportation subcommittee, and a resident assistant. Her efforts have resulted in tangible impacts on individuals as well as university policies and procedures. As president of the EcoReps, she coordinated the EcoReps water bottle project to reduce the number of single-use plastic water bottles on campus. She also provided feedback to the recommendations submitted by the climate task force. One nominator commented, “[Alexandria] leads with kindness by substantially sharing her time and effort for her peers and community.”

Business Economics

Dawson has had a profound impact on ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú through his passion, curiosity, and commitment to inclusive excellence. He worked to create an inclusive environment on campus by serving as a student trustee on the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University Board of Trustees, and as a member of the Farmer School of Business multicultural business association, the institutional DEI student advisory council, and the student workgroup of the mental health task force.

Beyond his many organizational roles, Dawson was an undergraduate assistant in a number of classes and a lead supplemental instructor for multiple semesters. He has helped countless economics students develop their academic skills. He consistently exceeds expectations in his presentations to the board and university administrators. One nominator describes Dawson as a "selfless individual who demonstrates great compassion and maturity beyond his years."

Biology, Pre-Medical Studies co-major

Through her leadership positions, Petrina dedicated herself to supporting underrepresented populations, particularly minority first-generation students. In the dean's student advisory council in the College of Arts and Science, Petrina provided a voice for students whose perspectives were often overlooked. She also created a welcoming community that provided resources and opportunities through her work in the minority association of pre-health students. Her work as a peer mentor with the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation and as a peer tutor with the Rinella Learning Center also had a significant impact on students, providing them with a foundation for success at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú.

Petrina was also involved in several undergraduate research opportunities and presentations. One nominator described that “her spirit spreads through her work, from caregiving, to serving in organizations, and to her academic endeavors. She truly represents what it means to be a service leader.”

English Studies

Maddie Dulle is a dedicated student who is passionate about expanding her knowledge and serving others. With a talent for creative writing and a strong work ethic, Maddie has impressed her professors and peers with her maturity, self-motivation, and natural ability to lead.

Maddie was an active member of the Teaching and Learning Center (TLC) on the Hamilton campus, where she served as a writing tutor and mentor to other students. Her excellent communication skills and dedication to helping others succeed have made her a valuable asset to the TLC community.

Maddie took the initiative to collaborate with others in 2022 to launch a student-led news source for the regional campuses. She has since served as the managing editor, overseeing staff writers for The Pulse, in addition to contributing her own articles for publication. One nominator states, “she is an ideal example of an engaged student and servant leader.” 

Political Science

Khenadi Grubb has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills during her time at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú. One of Khenadi’s nominators noted that Khenadi “has shown impressive initiative and discipline, which speak to her dedication, persistence, and tenacity.”

Khenadi serves as an all source intelligence analyst in the Ohio Air National Guard. She attended the West Point Military Academy student conference on U.S. affairs and participated in the inside Washington D.C. program. Khenadi has also completed several internships, including a position with the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, highlighting her leadership at a national level.

Khenadi is currently completing her term as student body vice president at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú as well as her membership on the Armstrong Student Center board.

Strategic Communication and Professional Writing co-major

Cosette Gunter-Stratton is a gifted writer, community leader, and dedicated advocate for social justice. Her passion for communication, coupled with her commitment to community service, has led her to excel both in and out of the classroom.

Cosette's leadership experience at The ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú Student is particularly noteworthy. As Editor-in-Chief, she has successfully managed a team of 20 reporters, leading them in producing investigative stories and fostering collaborations with local news outlets. Under her leadership, the publication has seen increased web traffic and audience engagement.

Additionally, Cosette has volunteered with the campus democrats, worked with the Center for Student Diversity and Inclusion, and served as a campus tgour Guide for the office of admission. She wa also a community engagement representative for the community leadership team in her residence hall. She has served as a teaching assistant and tutor, conducted research, and completed an internship. A nominator comments, “Cosette has been a citizen leader of uncommon quality.”

Sales Management

Trevor House is a standout student leader who made an impact on the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University Regionals community. Trevor has not only excelled academically, but also demonstrated exceptional leadership abilities. Trevor made the most of his time on campus through the challenges of COVID-19 restrictions, working as an orientation leader during the summer of 2021. He was later promoted to regional orientation coordinator. He consistently demonstrated a service-oriented approach to leadership, prioritizing the needs of new students to ensure they felt welcomed and valued.

Throughout his various roles, Trevor gained a reputation for being reliable and hardworking. His exemplary work and leadership style earned him the respect of both his peers and professional staff members, and he has become a model of excellence within the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University Regionals community. Trevor’s nominator comments, “I can always count on Trevor to take initiative and work with integrity, while also being a leader among his peers.”

Political Science and Emerging Technology of Business and Design

Amitoj Kaur's impact on ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú spans many areas of campus. She has served as a student orientation undergraduate leader, an access fellow with the Rinella Learning Center, and president of Commuters at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú. She was secretary of the Armstrong Student Center board, and a member of advancing women in entrepreneurship. Amitoj also served a two-year term as a student trustee on the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University Board of Trustees and is currently finishing her role as ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú’s student body president. She is the co-founder of the women of kolour in excellence (W.O.K.E.) group in Rinella. Through these leadership roles, she consistently represented the needs of the student body and advocated for change.

In addition to displaying exemplary leadership skills, Amitoj excelled in the classroom, making a lasting impact in all parts of the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú community. “She spends every day working to improve the culture of ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú," one nominator said. "She has a drive and passion that are unmatched among her peers.”

Urban and Regional Planning, Sustainability co-major

Ian Murphy has made a positive impact at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú as a teaching assistant and independent researcher. Passionate about planning and transportation, Ian has made a significant contribution to the wider community. As a leader in the geography and planning society, Ian has organized workshops and activities to enhance the student experience. He also served as a student representative on the climate action task force and the transportation subcommittee, where he played a key role in developing and evaluating different strategies for parking and transportation. His efforts have led to the redesign of bus routes to improve mobility, decrease emissions and better serve student needs.

According to one of his nominators, "[Ian] combines incredible intelligence with seriousness of purpose and a laser-focus to make a huge difference in transportation and sustainability.”

Theatre

Charlotte Perez has made significant contributions to ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú through their engagement in many activities. Charlotte has been actively involved in the bridges program, associated student government, and the urban cohort, and served as a tour guide for the office of admissions. They also served on the Theatre chair’s advisory board, the CCA diversity, equity, and inclusion committee and the CCA thriving artists network.

Charlotte is a leader who cares deeply about social justice and equity. They have made valuable contributions to the theater department, serving as president of the walking theatre project, student director in the Theatre department’s main stage production, an assistant director of a musical, and a stage manager. Charlotte has also participated in several independent research projects focused on social justice issues. One of their nominators said, “Charlotte leaves an immediate and glowing impression that can last a lifetime”.

Marketing

Brittney Rivelli is a two-time captain of the senior varsity synchronized skating team. She is also a member of the synchronized skating unified working group. Through this experience, she developed and implemented policies and rules for a newly created division of synchronized skating to be featured in domestic competitions that includes able-bodied athletes and competitive Special Olympic athletes.

Brittney is an ambassador for the U.S. Figure Skating DREAM program, where she facilitated a first-of-its-kind virtual DREAM camp for youth skaters during the pandemic. This initiative helped young skaters maintain their passion and love for skating, while developing a sense of purpose and self, and providing a connection to the sport. On campus, Brittney served on the dean of students’ advisory board, discussing initiatives related to Title IX, ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú’s DEI strategy, student absenteeism, and student engagement and wellness.

Brittney's nominator comments that Brittany is “humble, affable, kind, and generous in manner, thought, and wisdom.”

Studio Art

Megan Sekulich graduated in December 2022 with a BFA in Studio Art. During her time at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú, she made remarkable contributions to the Department of Art and to the Myaamia Center. Megan demonstrated her exceptional artistic talents and a willingness to learn by contributing to a poster project for the Myaamia Center that showcased Myaamia aesthetics. She also served as a co-teacher in a course focused on Myaamia aesthetics and culture, mentored students in this course, and created stickers of drawings of culturally significant local fruits and a greeting to be distributed to 6th graders. Megan curated an exhibition in the Art building lobby, highlighting the collaborative work with Art Education, and worked on coordinating and curating the Oxford Community Arts Center exhibition in November 2022.

Megan became involved at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú before her first semester began and continued on this track for her entire college career. One of her nominator’s described Megan as “one of the most thoughtful and reflective students that I have had the pleasure to work with.”

Computer Science

Sakshi has made a significant impact on the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú community. She has served in multiple roles to welcome domestic and international students to ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú - as a student orientation undergraduate leader, a global ambassador for admission and an international peer orientation leader. Her passion for cross-cultural exchange led her to participate in the global buddies and global neighbors programs, fostering meaningful connections between international and domestic students.

Sakshi has been involved in numerous other parts of campus as well. She was a scholar leader. She founded many of the musical meditations and vegetarian dinners offered at the Interfaith Center. And she served as a student employee for ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú dining.

Sakshi's academic achievements are equally impressive, earning the title of 2022 CSE Student of the Year. She worked with engineers without borders, served an undergraduate teaching assistant, and was part of the winning team for the MU CAT design innovation competition. Her nominator comments that “Sakshi immediately stood out with her enthusiasm, engagement and embrace of what it means to be a ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉúan.”

Geology and Environmental Science (Bachelor's degrees) and Environmental Science (Master's degree)

Kinshuk's passion for the environment has been evident in his academic pursuits, internships, and service to the community. Kinshuk has demonstrated remarkable resilience, determination, and excellence in his research on the presence of lead in paint used on roads in the midwestern United States. His work has been presented at a national conference and has led to a scientific manuscript where he is the lead author.

Apart from his academic achievements, Kinshuk has served on ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú's climate action task force, the students with disabilities advisory council executive team, and as a resident assistant. Furthermore, Kinshuk contributed to the National Association of Blind Students as a board member, where he has facilitated engagement and programming geared toward student success. A nominator states, “Kinshuk Tella has truly acted boldly, succeeded fearlessly, and shattered expectations.”

Integrated English/Language Arts Education

Jenna has served in several capacities with increasing leadership for ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú's Chapter of Camp Kesem, a summer camp for children who have a parent impacted by cancer. She has been a camp advisor, counselor, marketing and PR coordinator, and eventually co-director . Through Camp Kesem, Jenna supported young people experiencing immense fear and grief. She was also a leader in her sorority, an admission tour guide, and a leader in the urban teaching cohort.

Jenna served as a member of the dean's advisory board in the College of Education, Health and Society and was a student manager for the department of Family Science and Social Work for the past four years. Jenna’s nominators comment on her “strong abilities, intellectual capacity, and fervent dedication to service to ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú University.”

Individualized Studies in Human Sex and Sexuality

Aiyana has advocated for issues of class, race, gender, and sexual orientation equity and inclusion throughout her time at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú. In fall 2022, she played a critical role in the creation and success of QT-Con, a grassroots queer and trans conference and convention. Aiyana helped plan, schedule, and promote the event and delivered an invaluable presentation on queer inclusive sex education.

She has focused on writing Q+ sexuality education curriculum and delivering it on campus, including sessions on sexual consent, risk reduction, and healthy relationships in residence halls. Her programs are informed by ethical standards and are on the cutting edge of sexuality education. “She never stops at the research piece," stated one nominator. "She always asks what can be done about it. Then she finds collaborators and does something about it.”

Political Science

Jazmine has used her time, talent, leadership, and passion to create platforms for underrepresented voices to be heard in the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú community. Her advocacy for Black art and culture led her to become the central student voice in the creation of the inaugural electric root festival. Her ability to rally peers and garner support from various partners helped make the festival an undeniable success. The festival served over 1,000 attendees from the ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú and greater Oxford communities.

Jazmine's exceptional service through miami activities and programming (MAP) was recognized by the National Association for Campus Activities. She won awards for ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú for the outstanding campus collaboration and the social justice educational program. Jazmine has also demonstrated her commitment to serving others in the classroom. Her quiet assistance and demeanor have helped students new to the rigors of college life to feel welcome and at home. A nominator states, “Jazmine Williams is certainly a leader of uncommon quality.”

Biology, Pre-Medial Studies co-major

Eric dedicated his time at ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú to volunteering and working in health related areas. He served as the vice president of community engagement and the global health education chair for MEDLIFE of ÍÃ×ÓÏÈÉú. Eric led with enthusiasm and creativity, attending every clinic and creating and executing a volunteer training program, in addition to recruiting and scheduling all front desk volunteers. He was instrumental in planning fundraising activities, coordinating community activities, and advocating for future partnerships between the university and the clinic.

As a full-time student and employee at Dayton Children's Hospital, Eric's ability to make decisions and share resources was outstanding. His nominator commented that Eric “is one of the best volunteers I have had the honor of working with.” Eric also worked as a private tutor, volunteered at McCullough-Hyde Memorial Hospital and the Oxford Free Clinic, and served in leadership roles within his fraternity.