The Valedictorian Award recognizes distinctive academic achievement. Eligibility includes the completion of at least 90 credits of study at Marist, and at least six semesters as a full-time student.

Graduating as valedictorian is a milestone Sean holds with deep gratitude as a first-generation college student. He pursued a double major in Biomedical Sciences and Business Administration, developing a custom concentration in Healthcare Management that challenged him to take courses alongside graduate students. Outside the classroom, he worked as a patient care technician at Northern Dutchess Hospital and interned in the Mid-Hudson Regional emergency department. At Marist, Sean embraced leadership and creativity, becoming the first male member of the dance team, serving as treasurer of Dance Ensemble, assisting in the chemistry lab, and leading American Chemical Society as president. His research experiences with faculty explored rural hospital closures, provider retention, and microbial antibiotic resistance in agriculture—uniting his passion for science and community health. Sean is preparing to apply to medical school, driven by a desire to return to a rural area like his hometown and become a primary care physician.

The Salutatorian Award recognizes a graduating student who has completed at least 90 credits of study at Marist and has attained the highest or second-highest grade point index in the class.

Emma Isabel Denes pursued a major in Communication, concentration in Journalism, and minor in Environmental Studies. She served in multiple leadership roles, including Editor-in-Chief of the Marist Circle, President of the Students Encouraging Environmental Dedication (SEED) club, and Reading Club Chair of the university’s Society of Professional Journalists chapter. Emma completed internships with Marine Conservation Institute, Content Studio New York, and Hudson Valley Magazine, as well as a mentoring program with the National Association of Science Writers. An early-career environmental and ocean journalist, Emma loves to tell stories through the written word that bring the natural world to life. After graduating a semester early in January, she started her online master’s degree in science writing at Johns Hopkins University. This summer, she will be the virtual Ocean Science Writing intern for the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Although currently a Blue Jay, she remains a Red Fox for life!

The General Excellence Award recognizes a graduating student who has completed at least 90 credits at Marist and has attained the second- or third-highest grade point index in the class.

I am a psychology major with double minors in social work and sociology. I helped conduct community-engaged research which was presented at EPA and published. Additionally, I was a MCSJR Summer Scholar and held two internships at the United States Military Academy. Moreover, I am an assistant resident director and school record holder on the track team. I served on the boards for Psi Chi, the Hudson Rally for St. Jude, and Student Athletic Affairs.  

The Merit Award recognizes a graduating student who has completed 60–89 credits of study at Marist and has attained the highest grade point index in the class.

I am an honors student graduating with a B.S. in computer science as well as minors in cognitive science, cybersecurity, IT, and IS. My research areas include cybersecurity, computer science, and cognitive science. I have published research on Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) security and created a neural network model for perceptual priming as my Honors Program thesis. Whilst obtaining my degree, I have worked tirelessly as a network technician to provide the best quality connectivity at Marist, eventually taking the role of our lead student technician. Beyond academics, I am proud to be the president of the Marist Game Society as well as the team captain of our CounterStrike2 esports team. In the summers, I have completed three software engineering internships at Lockheed Martin. After graduation, I am excited to start my new role as a Hardware Performance Engineer at IBM Poughkeepsie. I love exploring nature in the Hudson Valley, rock climbing, skateboarding, and debating philosophy of mind with my housemate.

The Award for Academic Distinction recognizes a graduating student who has completed less than 60 credits of study at Marist and has attained the highest grade point index in the class.

I am honored to receive the 2025 Award for Academic Distinction from Marist University. What began as a personal interest in software development has grown into a defining academic journey. Over the past five years, I have balanced full-time employment, a part-time software engineering role at Marist, parenting, and evening coursework. This recognition reflects my perseverance, love of learning and the unwavering support of my professors, colleagues, and wife. I look forward to building on this foundation in future academic and professional pursuits.
 

Emily is a Clinical Mental Health Counseling graduate student, dedicated to advancing the prevention and treatment of problematic sexual behavior. She works with justice-involved youth, adults, and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, incorporating trauma-informed cognitive behavioral therapy, play therapy, and expressive arts techniques to help clients safely explore their behaviors and develop healthy boundaries. As a graduate assistant in Marist’s Cognitive Science Research Lab, she supports undergraduates on projects exploring topics like the cognitive processes involved in political polarization. Her own research interests include the school-to-prison pipeline, parental incarceration, vagus nerve stimulation, and false memory formation. In addition to her clinical and research work, Emily advocates for graduate and adult students as the Graduate Council Student Representative and founder of the Graduate Student Association. She is deeply committed to justice reform and aims to drive meaningful change through a blend of practice, research, and advocacy.

Emma Isabel Denes, a member of the National Communication Association honor society, graduated from the Communication program with a Journalism concentration. She was the Reading Club Chair of the university's Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) chapter and served as Editor-in-Chief of the Marist Circle student newspaper in her final semester. Over the course of her collegiate career, she wrote over 30 original stories for the Marist Circle, including the exclusive piece on Marist's university transition.

This award is given to the graduating communication major who has demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and a significant level of service to the Marist and the community.

Mildred Miles will graduate summa cum laude, completing a degree in Fashion Design with double minors in Fashion Merchandising and Product Development. During her time at Marist, Mildred worked at Steel Plant’s Creative Resource Center, was a member of the Dance Team, studied in Florence, Italy, and interned at J. Crew. She received the Freshman Design Scholarship, Dean’s List, and participated in the CFDA and FSF. Her thesis collection is inspired by her small business, The Sunroom, which she hopes to expand in her future.

This award is given to the graduating digital media major who has excelled in their coursework, demonstrated exceptional artistic creativity, contributed to the department, and exhibits leadership qualities.

Kaitlyn (Kait) Dugan is a double-major in Digital Media and Fine Arts with a triple concentration in Digital Arts, Graphic Design, and Studio Art, and a Photography minor. A three-time NBCUniversal Intern, she worked on The Tonight Show, Late Night with Seth Meyers, and SNL. A Presidential and Dean’s List Scholar, Kait served as President of the Student Programming Council. She also worked as a Photographer for MPorium and as Gallery Director at Maker Lab.

This award recognizes outstanding academic performance in fashion merchandising and distinguished participation in the activities of the department.

Sarah is an Honors Program student majoring in Fashion Merchandising with a dual concentration in Business and Promotion and a minor in Spanish. During her time at Marist, she interned with Classic Prep Childrenswear, J. Crew, and Hugo Boss, and gained international experience working at Milan Fashion Week while studying abroad in Florence. Sarah currently serves as the Head of Social Media for the Honors Program, a role she has held for three years, and she has earned Dean’s List recognition every semester. After graduation, Sarah plans to continue her career in the fashion industry in New York City.

This award is given to the graduating senior who has excelled in their fine arts, studio art, or art history coursework and has become involved in the discipline of art beyond the classroom.

Sierra will be graduating magna cum laude with a degree in Studio Art. She was selected to participate in the Venice Biennale Program in the summer of 2024, where she exhibited the work she created during her time in Venice, Italy. Her art has been featured in several exhibitions in the Steel Plant Art Gallery and sold at various events throughout New York. Sierra is the co-president of the HuMarists club, the student manager of the Marist Art Gallery, and served on the Sustainability Action Planning Committee as appointed by President Weinman. She is excited to pursue an MFA in painting and continue her art practice after graduation.

This award is given to the graduating senior whose achievements in and out of the classroom demonstrated a unique blend of game design, technical, and artistic ability.

Abigail is graduating with a B.S. in games and emerging media with a concentration in design writing and culture, and minors in interactive media and computer science. On campus, she acted as the assistant to the Games department, board member of Naturally Foxy Club, and Account Representative at North Road Communications. Off campus, Abigail had the opportunity to study abroad in Florence, Italy, participate in two international internships, and conduct impactful research on ethics and bias in games and online environments. She says a special thanks to Dr. Kat Schrier, whose mentorship has shaped her academic and creative journey. After graduation, Abigail plans to pursue a marketing research career in the gaming field.

This award recognizes outstanding academic performance in media studies and production as well as distinguished achievement in internships, community service, or student organizations related to the department.

Cole is graduating with a 3.98 GPA majoring in Media Studies and Production with a minor in Business. Cole created or contributed to multiple short films, including a 25-minute narrative for his capstone project. He helped revive Red Fox Films and served as President for two years. He also organized and hosted an Oscars-style award show for the Film/TV department. Cole interned at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, and attended the 2023 Lake Placid Film Festival with Marist students and faculty. He completed the FIE Study/Internship Fall 2024 program in London, interned at Really Bright Media, and, most importantly, created life-long connections with many students and faculty within the school.

The recipient of this award must complete a music minor, participate in various music programs with the College, exhibit leadership qualities, and demonstrate artistic creativity.

During my undergraduate career, I majored in History and Adolescent Education and minored in Music, Medieval & Renaissance Studies, and Global Studies. I was a member of the Marist Band as well as Kappa Kappa Psi, the national honorary band fraternity. In addition, I was the Vice President of Marist's chapter of Kappa Delta Pi, international honor society in education, member of Phi Alpha Theta, national history honor society, and Sigma Alpha Pi, national honor society for leadership and success. After graduation, I plan to do one more year at Marist to finish my 5-year program and receive my master's degree in May 2026.

This award was established by the Marist University Software Engineering Research Fund in honor of its founder, Dr. William Cadden, a distinguished IBM computer scientist.

Lillian McPadden from Englishtown, New Jersey majored in Computer Science with a concentration in Software Development and triple minored in Information Technology, Information Systems, and Cybersecurity. While at Marist, she was an active member of the music department, specifically Marist Singers and The Marist Band's Color Guard. She participated in the Marist-IBM Joint Study Program completing cybersecurity research on Precision Time Protocol which led her to intern in zPET (z/OS Platform Evaluation Test) at IBM Poughkeepsie. While at Marist, she had the unique experience to attend and present at 11 different conferences, all throughout the US. Following graduation, she will continue to work full-time at IBM Poughkeepsie as a Quality Assurance Developer in zPET.

This award is given to the graduating senior whose achievements in or out of the classroom demonstrated an unusual depth of knowledge and creativity in cybersecurity and related disciplines.

Tristan led the Marist Cybersecurity Club for two years as Vice President in his Junior year and later as President in his senior year. Worked to grow the club and its reputation both on and off campus by hosting and developing educational events, meetings, and workshops to support fellow students and the community at large. Tristan also led an undergraduate cybersecurity research group which consisted of fellow Cybersecurity and Computer Science students, conducting thoughtful research for industry leaders. Lastly, Tristan worked as a Network Lab Assistant, managing and supporting network technology, while also tutoring students in the subject. He did all of this while also being a dedicated member of the university band. Tristan loved to spread his passion for cybersecurity on campus, growing the program hand in hand with professors, industry leaders, and other students.

This award is given to the graduating senior whose achievements in or out of the classroom demonstrated an unusual depth of knowledge and creativity in information systems.

Over his collegiate career at Marist University, Christian Sarmiento has published three research papers, one in a journal and two in conference proceedings. In addition to academic research, he has reinstated an inactive Marist Analytics Community club and has been its President for three years. Christian Sarmiento has also had the privilege of participating in the Marist-IBM Joint Study as a student Machine Learning Engineer. He will be starting his professional career at IBM in July as a Backend Engineer for AI Enablement.

This award is given to the graduating senior whose achievements in or out of the classroom demonstrated an unusual depth of mathematical knowledge and creativity.

Coming from New Zealand, I am incredibly grateful for the academic opportunities Marist has offered me, along with the chance to compete in high-level water polo. I was honored to receive the Early Career Undergraduate Research Award and study abroad at the Budapest Semesters in Mathematics. I shared my research, “Laplace Transforms, the Gamma Function and Weird Factorials!”, in the Mathematics Seminar Series. I’ve loved serving as a Senior Mathlab tutor, co-president of Pi Mu Epsilon, AWM Chapter Chair, and Math Club board member, all of which have allowed me to help grow and support our math community.

This award honors a graduating senior who has achieved distinction in analytical and expressive skills, and whose high scholarship index and positive participation in campus life have demonstrated commitment to the values of Marist University.

Abby Castonguay is an English major with a writing concentration and minors in Public Relations, Creative Writing, and Literature. She served as Editor-in-Chief of Mosaic, Marist’s literary and arts magazine. Abby worked as a Peer Tutor at the Marist Writing Center and interned at Content Studio New York & Hudson Valley Magazine. She is also a member of the Sigma Tau Delta English Honor Society. This fall, Abby will pursue her MS in Publishing at NYU.

Alexander Pattison is a French major and Global Studies minor from Bethlehem, NY. He is a MAACs All-Academics member of the Men's Cross Country and Track Team and worked at the Weiss Center as a French coach, as well as Fitness Instructor for Martial Arts. He was a participant in the 2022 Encuentro Project with the Campus Ministry in El Paso, where he volunteered in a migrant shelter and learned from multiple perspectives about the U.S. immigration system. He spent the spring semester of his sophomore year with the API Grenoble Language Intensive Studies program in the Auvergne Rhône-Alpes Department, studying at the Université Grenoble Alpes. He interned at the ARC at Lexington as a Peer Mentor, providing services to young adults with autism. He is aspiring to pursue a potential career in education or public service.

This award is given to the individual who has done exceptional work in history courses and has compiled an overall record of high academic achievement.

Abby is a History major who is enrolled in the BA/MAT Adolescent History Education Program with a minor in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. Abby has worked as the History Department Research Assistant since her sophomore year, where she has engaged in archival research and created content to be shared with the department. She has also interned at the Eleanor Roosevelt Center at Val-Kill and is a member of the Phi Alpha Theta History Honors Society. She is pursuing a career as a secondary education social studies teacher and will begin her Master's in Education program following graduation.

This award is given to the individual who has done exceptional work in philosophy courses and has compiled an overall record of high academic achievement.

Lily Jandrisevits is an English and Philosophy major and a French minor. She is also a member of the Honors Program. Lily has served as an art editor of the Mosaic and editor-in-chief of Diotima the Marist philosophy journal. She works in the Marist archives, was selected as a 2023 Tarver Summer Intern, and studied abroad in Aix-en-Provence in 2024. She has presented both philosophy papers and original fiction work at multiple conferences and was selected to attend the 2024 University of Colorado Boulder philosophy summer seminar. After graduating, she will be attending the University of Manitoba for a Master of Arts degree in Philosophy.

This award is given to the graduate who, having earned at least 24 credits in political science and significantly exceeded a 3.0 GPA both in the major and overall, offered significant involvement in campus activities and shows potential for leadership.

Katie Smith is a Political Science major with minors in Music and Women’s, Gender, & Sexuality Studies. Katie has worked for Marist’s Center for Civic Engagement since her freshman year and interned for NY Senator Gianaris as part of Marist’s Albany Summer Internship Program. Katie is a member of the Dean’s Circle, the Honors Program, and the Pi Sigma Alpha Honors Society. Katie plans to apply to law school this summer and continue her academic journey.

This award is given to the graduating senior who has achieved excellence in the mastery of the Spanish language, and who manifests a deep appreciation and understanding of the literature and culture of Hispanic civilization.

Kara Clark has majors in History, Spanish, and Global Studies with a concentration in European Studies as well as a minor in Women’s Gender and Sexuality Studies. She studied abroad twice, in Florence as well as in Madrid. She has presented at the Phi Alpha Theta Regional History Conference where she won first prize. Next year she will attend the University of Toronto for a Masters Degree in Museum Studies.

This award is given to the graduating senior who has compiled an excellent undergraduate record, including coursework in survey research; participated extensively in statewide and national public opinion surveys; provided leadership in the planning and implementation of Marist Poll activities; and successfully completed an internship at Marist Poll or related activity.

Matt Pater is a political science major with a music minor. He worked at MIPO all four years as a survey assistant, head coach, and research associate. He is also a member of the Honors Program. Matt interned in Senator Chuck Schumer’s office in Washington, D.C., served as Marist’s delegate at the Student Conference on U.S. Affairs at West Point, and was inducted into Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society. After graduation, Matt plans on working in the political research field before attending graduate school.

This award is given to a graduating senior who has contributed significantly to the Center for Civic Engagement and Leadership and has made important service contributions on our campus and in the community.

Rebecca Dowling is majoring in Political Science and Communication with a Journalism concentration and a Global Studies minor. A Tarver Intern and Washington Semester Alumna, she worked at the New York State Assembly, Family Services, and the Partnership for Public Service. Rebecca is the Communications Director at the Center for Civic Engagement and Leadership and a member of St. Jude's E-Board and SGA’s Club Affairs Board. She is pursuing a career in political communications and policy.

This award acknowledges the senior accounting major who possesses the highest cumulative grade point averages in accounting and overall, and who has provided service to the Beta Alpha Psi honor society.

Jack exemplified exceptional leadership by founding the Accounting Club and establishing the first ever NYSCPA student chapter. He has been an active participant in VITA since his freshman year, eventually advancing to the role of Assistant Site Coordinator. Jack also showcased his expertise by presenting his thesis at the National Business Education Association. Conference. Additional research will be published in the upcoming issue for the NYSCPA Journal. Following graduation, Jack will pursue a Master of Science in Accounting at NYU Stern and return to KPMG as a Tax Associate, where he will continue to build on his career in tax.

This award acknowledges the senior economics major who has demonstrated exceptional understanding of contemporary economic issues and has shown outstanding promise through internships, economic research, or special projects.

Sheridan is a dedicated double major in Economics and Political Science with a strong interest in policy and economic justice. She interned at Nassau Financial Group in the summers of 2022 and 2023, before she continued working as a part-time legal-compliance employee until 2024. In 2023, she interned for Congressman John Larson (CT-01) in his D.C. office during the Washington Semester Program, and she continued working with the Congressman on his campaign in Connecticut in the summer of 2024. She served as Marist’s Student Body President for the 2024-2025 academic year, where she advocated for her peers on the Board of Trustees as well as other governance committees, regularly acted as a facilitator for initiatives between students, admin, faculty, staff, and worked to engage the campus community with resources and events. In addition, Sheridan has taken advantage of all Marist has to offer through a spring 2024 attachment class to Greece, a trip with the Marist Institute for Public Opinion to New Hampshire for the January 2024 Presidential Primaries, a paper published collaboratively with her professor, and several philanthropic efforts, most notably about $2,600 raised towards a local domestic violence shelter in Poughkeepsie. Most recently, she is headed to NYC for the National Model United Nations conference, where she will serve as chair to the ECOSOC committee.

This award acknowledges the senior business administration major who pursued an area of emphasis in marketing, management, entrepreneurship, or international business and has achieved outstanding academic performance and excellence in extracurricular activities.

Academically, Korinne Finnigan has consistently excelled in her Business Administration major with concentrations in Entrepreneurship & Marketing and her Graphic Design minor, maintaining a strong GPA and earning the distinction of Magna Cum Laude. Her academic pursuits have extended beyond traditional business courses to include ASL 1 & 2, sailing, yoga, archery, and boxing, showcasing her diverse interests. Furthermore, she broadened her global perspective through her participation in the ASPIR program in Ireland. Within the Marist community, Korinne has demonstrated exceptional engagement and leadership in Marist Theatre. Her commitment is extensive: currently serving as President, she culminates three years on the executive board after holding Vice President and Secretary roles. Beyond leadership, Korinne has been deeply involved in productions, contributing actively in numerous creative and technical capacities. She also shares her artistic talents as a member and choreographer for the Marist Dance Ensemble. Korinne also gained valuable professional experience during her internship with Evolution International Inc., working on behalf of non-profits such as the Humane Society of the U.S. and Heifer International. Additionally, she gained practical marketing experience on campus as a member of the Mporium marketing team and as a retail associate in the store. Korinne is profoundly honored to be the recipient of the Pamela J. Harper Most Outstanding Student Award and wants to thank the faculty of the School of Management for their selection.

This award acknowledges the senior business administration major who pursued an area of emphasis in finance and has achieved outstanding academic performance and leadership in extracurricular activities related to finance.

Peter Tsavaris is a business administration student concentrating in finance, with minors in accounting and data science. He serves as the president of Beta Alpha Psi, a national honor society for finance and accounting students, which has over 100 members on campus. Beta Alpha Psi aims to enhance students' professional development through various workshops and networking events.
Peter is also the co-president of the Investment Club, which helps members develop a strong understanding of various topics in preparation for internships and interviews. Additionally, he founded the Greystone Junior Analyst Program to provide underclassmen with hands-on experience in the student-managed investment fund while building their resumes for future opportunities.

This award is given to a student who has completed a minimum of 24 credits of study in athletic training at Marist and has achieved recognized excellence in academic performance.

Over the past three years, I have developed a deep passion for athletic training, both academically and clinically. As a consistent Dean’s List honoree, I have had the privilege of presenting a study at the 2024 CURSCA presentations, as well as my critically appraised topic at the 2025 Eastern Athletic Trainers’ Association Conference. Beyond the classroom, I have served as the Social Media Coordinator for the Athletic Training Club and as a Student Ambassador for the National Athletic Trainers’ Association. I have also had the privilege of working as a medical volunteer at both the Boston Marathon and the Special Olympics for two years, experiences that have been deeply humbling and rewarding. This fall, I will continue my academic journey by pursuing a Master of Science in Kinesiology, serving as a Graduate Assistant in partnership with the Korey Stringer Institute at the University of Connecticut. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities and support I have received at Marist, and I look forward to continuing my academic and professional growth in this next chapter.

This award is given to the student who has completed a minimum of 24 credits of study in biology at Marist and achieved recognized excellence in academic performance.

Chloe LoSauro is a biomedical sciences major and psychology minor, graduating summa cum laude. Her honors thesis analyzed enzymes regulating lipid homeostasis in yeast. Other research included bacteriophage genome sequencing and the effect of acetic acid on mice’s metabolism and weight loss. She served as laboratory assistant for multiple biology courses and led the weekly biology review sessions. She also interned at NYU Langone Health’s Government Affairs office and shadowed at Valley Hospital in New Jersey.

This award is given to a student who majored in chemistry or biochemistry and completed a minimum of 24 credits of study in chemistry at Marist, achieving recognized excellence in academic performance.

Victoria is a graduating chemistry major with a minor in music. She has received ACS Undergraduate Awards in both Analytical Chemistry and Organic Chemistry. At Marist, she worked as an organic chemistry laboratory assistant and conducted research with Dr. John Edwards and Dr. Neil Fitzgerald regarding quantitative NMR analysis of biomolecule supplements. After graduation, Victoria will be pursuing a graduate degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University at Buffalo.

Shannon graduated summa cum laude with a degree in environmental science & policy and minor in biology a semester early. As part of the Honors program, she completed her thesis project, surveying 80 homeowners in the Hudson Valley on their perceptions of flooding, flood insurance, and climate change. Shannon worked as both a greenhouse technician and Marist garden intern and completed two summer internships with the Connecticut DEEP. Her semester abroad in Costa Rica with the School for Field Studies and attachment trip to Alaska were highlights of her education. Shannon is now employed by the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation.

This award is given to a student who has completed a minimum of 37 credits of study in medical technology at Marist and achieved recognized excellence in academic performance as well as demonstrated potential for growth in the profession of medical technology.

Jayna Ramesh is a graduate of the Medical Laboratory Sciences program at Marist University and is a recipient of the Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship, the Charles J. Lawson, Jr. Scholarship, the O'Shea Scholarship, and the Presidential Scholarship. Jayna maintained a 4.0 grade point average during her time at Marist and served as a teacher's assistant for both the traditional and accelerated Medical Laboratory Sciences programs.  She also served as a tutor for Organic and General Chemistry. In addition, Jayna works as a Medical Assistant at Emergency-One Urgent Care and volunteers as a kitten foster. Jayna has secured a full-time position as a Clinical Laboratory Technologist at Health Alliance Hospital of Westchester Medical Center in Kingston, NY.

This award is given to a senior who has achieved a grade point average of 3.25 or greater; participated in research, internships, scientific presentations and/or related work experience beyond the expectations of the major; and compiled a record of service to the School of Science, Marist University, or the local community. The recipient should also show promise for continuation of their education at the professional- or graduate-school level.

Lucas Silvestro Iommazzo is a Biochemistry major with a minor in Biology who has been a 
a committed member of the Marist community both academically and through service. Lucas is a dedicated leader and mentor who served as a weekly review session leader for Organic Chemistry, a laboratory assistant for both Analytical and General Chemistry, and a tutor in Chemistry and Math. His leadership extends beyond the classroom as the Director of Prospects for Delta Epsilon Mu, Marist’s pre-health co-ed fraternity, and as President of the Italian American Society. Lucas is a member of the Sigma Zeta National Mathematics and Science Honor Society and has been actively involved with Marist’s Campus Ministry and the student affiliate chapter of the American Chemical Society. His commitment to scientific research includes work with Dr. Galbraith on charge-shift bonding and with Dr. Woolridge on the laccase-mediated oxidation of a lignin model compound. He further expanded his research experience through an internship at the Center for Molecular Oncology at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine during the summer of 2024, which has recently led to a publication. Following graduation, Lucas plans to take a gap year working as a medical assistant or emergency department technician while applying to medical school. Lucas would like to thank all faculty, staff, family, and friends who have all played a significant role in his success.

This award is given to a student selected by the School of Science faculty in recognition of overall academic performance with a primary focus on achievement in research.

Taha is a biomedical sciences major and a member of the Honors Program. As an undergraduate, he participated in highly competitive summer research programs at Cornell University and The Yale School of Medicine. These experiences led to numerous presentations at regional and national conferences, as well as authorship on a publication in the Journal of Immunology. At Marist, he conducted research for three semesters and completed his senior honors thesis on lipid homeostasis in endoplasmic reticulum resident proteins.

Dr. Kayiira was a criminal justice faculty member (1984-1987). Upon returning to his native Uganda to serve as Minister of Energy, he was incarcerated and then assassinated. In his memory, the Kayiira Award was created to recognize the criminal justice graduate who best combines academic excellence with strength of character, integrity, and service to the major.

I am a Crime and Justice Studies major with a Social Work minor. During my time at Marist University, I have completed research with the Chair of the Crime and Justice Studies Department on juvenile justice rehabilitation and recidivism, educated high school students on the different aspects of the criminal justice system through Marist’s Pre-College program, and now have been presented with this award. When I graduate from Marist, I plan to work in law enforcement and strive to better the community I serve in. Marist has allowed me to build upon experiences outside of the classroom and I am truly grateful for the opportunities that have been bestowed to me.

This award is presented annually to a teacher-education graduate whose commitment to personal academic excellence, professional excellence as a teacher, and service to children and youth reflects the high ideals of St. Marcellin Champagnat, founder of the teaching order of Marist Brothers, who established Marist.

Lindiana Frangu is earning her BS in Psychology/Childhood Education with Special Education at Marist College. A first-generation Albanian-American, she is dedicated to inclusive education and service. She has substitute taught across districts, created a therapeutic coloring book for children, and is currently writing a children’s book. She has also led blood drives, organized donation campaigns, and supported families facing cancer. Her passion for equity, compassion, and advocacy drives her commitment to being an impactful educator and community leader.

The recipient of this award has achieved an exceptional academic record and produced exemplary work in the realm of undergraduate research, internship, and/or service to the department. Their contribution exemplifies the core goals of the psychology major at Marist.

As a psychology major at Marist, I've conducted multiple research projects, developed research grants, and presented at conferences such as the Eastern Psychological Association, where I recently won a research award for my memory project. The professional connections Marist emphasizes allowed me to spend a summer working at Yale University’s Cognitive Neuroscience of Affect, Memories, and Stress Lab. I've also worked as a teaching assistant for research methods classes and completed internships with previously incarcerated individuals and those with neurodevelopmental disorders. After Marist, I will attend the Clinical Psychology PhD program at the University of Rhode Island, concentrating on neuropsychology.

The social work faculty annually recognizes a student who intends to practice social work and who clearly identifies with the purposes, goals, and ethics of the profession. In addition, the selected student has achieved a GPA over 3.0 and has served the social work program through the Social Work Association or by supporting fellow students and representing the program to the University and larger community.

My name is Ellie Jacobson-Goodhue and I am a social work major with a minor in psychology, hailing from a small town in Vermont. Throughout my academic career, I have demonstrated a strong commitment to social work and advocacy, serving on the Board of the Social Work Association (SWA) since my junior year. In my senior year, I had the distinct honor of serving as Co-President of SWA, where I successfully reintroduced the Buddy Program, a peer support initiative designed to foster connections among students and provide a safe, supportive network. In addition to my leadership role in SWA, I have collaborated with faculty members on research focusing on queer and trans-focused research care, specifically among universities. I am dedicated to furthering my knowledge and practice in the field of social work, with a particular interest in advocacy and inclusive care. Thank you so much for this honor! 

This award honors the unique academic commitment required by the adult student, who is often juggling their academic studies, family responsibilities, career, and community involvement. It is given to a graduating adult who has excelled in their course work; engaged in the academic process, including building relationships with faculty and peers; and demonstrated leadership both in and out of the classroom.

Gloria Vega began her career in 1980 as an Administrative Assistant on Wall Street, a time when college degrees were not mandatory. After enduring the loss of her husband, she became a USPS mail carrier to support her two children, eventually retiring from civil service. Overcoming major depression, addiction, codependency, and a four-year battle with Stage 4 cancer, Gloria transformed her life at 57 by serving as a peer counselor at the Reuner Cancer Support House and volunteering at St. Mary's Food Pantry while pursuing a Professional Studies degree at Marist University. Currently, she is establishing a nonprofit After School Community Center for minors in Puerto Rico's rural mountains.

This award is presented to the graduating student who has compiled an impressive record of volunteer activity on and/or off campus, demonstrating the University's traditional values of concern for the disadvantaged and service to the community.

During her time at Marist, Vanessa volunteered with Habitat for Humanity, traveling to North Carolina, Louisiana, and Florida during Spring Break to assist with the construction of Habitat Homes. First as the Affiliate Liaison, then as President, Vanessa played a role in extending Marist University's mission across state lines. As President, she directed executive meetings and led annual Collegiate Challenge retreats, overseeing logistics, volunteer coordination, and partnerships with Marist Student Activities to maximize community impact. Vanessa is forever grateful for Marist Habitat which taught her that even the smallest nail can make a difference. Vanessa is graduating with a double-major in Philosophy and English and she was a part of the Honors Program. 

Awards are given to two graduates who exemplify the true spirit of Marist University. Recipients will have made a significant contribution to the Marist community and show promise as a loyal and supportive member of the Alumni Association. Nominations are made by Marist alumni working at the University.

Lauren Kidwell
During my time at Marist, I have had the opportunity to work closely in the Office of Advancement, where I started as a Phonathon Associate, where I grew my communication skills and my confidence, all while learning about the impact of the Marist Fund and how strong the Red Fox community is. After three years of calling, I worked closely with Rita Rogan as the Office of Advancement Intern. I have cherished my time as the intern where I got to work on special events, including the tailgate homecoming and our 2nd annual Day of Giving. I was able to use my creative side to create posters, stickers, social media posts, etc. Alongside being the Office of Advancement Intern, I was a Senior Class Officer acting as the Event Coordinator, where I got to assist in planning all senior-targeted events, including all of the senior week activities. As an acting officer, I  proposed and led the creation of a Senior Memory Book for the class of 2025, allowing students to contribute photos capturing meaningful campus landmarks and experiences, resulting in a 20-page hardcover keepsake to celebrate their time at Marist, full of collages and pictures that I designed. I am very proud of my achievements at Marist, but some of my fondest memories are when I got to travel abroad to Florence and Rome, Italy, and throughout South Africa with Dr Gavin, a part of the School of Management.

Mia Siano
Mia Siano is graduating with a BS in Fashion Merchandising, accompanied by minors in Public Relations & Business. Mia has been a dedicated, passionate, and resilient leader within the Marist community. She has held impactful roles across campus, contributing to the Marketing & Communications Department, the Marist Fashion Program, and the Office of Admission. Mia has dedicated her time and passion all four years in the Office of Admission as a student assistant, tour guide, greeter, and Executive Leadership Board member, ultimately concluding her time as Co-President. Passionate about inclusion, Mia advocated for disability awareness through Runway of Dreams. Post graduation, Mia will begin her career at TJX Companies. She looks forward to being an engaged member of the Alumni Association, proudly carrying forward the values that shaped her Marist experience.