University
of
Maryland
MAY 2021
The 40th Annual University of Maryland Student Leadership Awards — 2021
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
W
elcome to the 40th annual University Awards Program. This evening we recognize our most highly accomplished and committed scholar-leaders with many of our most prestigious awards.
What we do at Maryland matters, and how we do it matters. That’s why I have two priorities for the University of Maryland – to promote excellence in everything we do from teaching and learning, research and innovation, the arts to athletics – and to create an inclusive, multicultural campus environment. Tonight’s honorees have exemplified this commitment and distinguished themselves through an outstanding mix of scholarship, leadership, and service. Each has left a lasting mark both in and out of the classroom. We are grateful to the dedicated faculty and advisors of our award recipients. They share in these honors. I thank the Adele H. Stamp Student Union - Center for Campus Life and Omicron Delta Kappa for sponsoring this event and encouraging these scholar-leaders. We are grateful for the thoughtful selection of our esteemed honorees. Through contributions to our institution and to the larger community, we are grateful for the inspiration and leadership provided by our honorees. Let’s continue to make meaningful progress toward our pursuit of excellence, as we demonstrate our Terrapin pride, and remain TerrapinSTRONG.
Darryll J. Pines, Ph.D. President, University of Maryland Glenn L. Martin Professor of Aerospace Engineering
The 40th Annual University of Maryland Student Leadership Awards — 2021
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Hail! Alma Mater
Hail, Alma Mater, Hail to thee Maryland! Steadfast in loyalty, for thee we stand. Love for the Black and Gold, Deep in our hearts we hold. Singing thy praise forever, Throughout the land.
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The 40th Annual University of Maryland Student Leadership Awards — 2021
ADELE H. STAMP MEMORIAL AWARD
GREEK LEADER OF THE YEAR AWARD
In 1983, the Union at the University of Maryland was named for Adele H. Stamp in honor of her outstanding work as Dean of Women from 1922 to 1960. In recognition of her many contributions to the University community, the Adele H. Stamp Student Union – Center for Campus Life is proud to give an award in her name to the undergraduate or graduate student who has worked to further similar causes. The individual receiving this award must have demonstrated personal commitment to high academic achievement; to providing programs, services or events within the Stamp which help to establish a sense of campus community; and have served as a leader for campus causes or organizations.
Each year the Order of Omega Greek Leadership Honor Society selects a fraternity or sorority leader who embodies the high ideals and principles of Greek Life. The individual chosen has been an influential leader, an outstanding scholar, and an involved participant in the campus community.
RECIPIENT Nabila Prasetiawan
CAMILLE K. RAJPAT MEMORIAL AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING MEMBER OF THE UNIVERSITY STUDENT JUDICIARY The Camille K. Rajpat Award is given to the member of the University Student Judiciary who best exemplifies the ideals of truth, honesty, integrity, empathy, and compassion through their service to the USJ. The award is named in memory of Camille K. Rajpat who served on the Student Judiciary as a member and presiding officer of the Honor Council, 1997 – 1998. Camille had been elected secretary of the Honor Council when she died suddenly in October of 1998. The Student Judiciary, a long-standing tradition of student involvement at Maryland, is comprised of the Student Honor Council, Central and Resident Judicial Boards, Appellate Board, and Community Advocates. RECIPIENT Rachel Yu
RECIPIENT Ysa Le JAMES H. KEHOE AND ETHEL KESLER AWARD
The James H. Kehoe (Men’s Intramural Sports Director, (1947-1969) and Ethel Kesler (Women’s Intramural Sports Director, 1956 -1981) Award is presented by University Recreation and Wellness to the undergraduate or graduate student who has demonstrated the highest degree of encouraging and inspiring the university community to be active and live well. RECIPIENT Kayla Foster JAMES OTIS WILLIAMS CULTURAL LEADERSHIP AWARD
James Otis Williams served the University for 26 years, serving as the Director of the Nyumburu Cultural Center for 25 years. Williams touched the lives of thousands of students, faculty, and staff, as a professional and friend during his long tenure at the University. The James Otis Williams Cultural Leadership Award recognizes a student who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, dedication to cultural awareness, and a commitment to higher education for students of the African Diaspora. RECIPIENT
COL. J. LOGAN SCHUTZ OMICRON DELTA KAPPA LEADER OF THE YEAR AWARD
Joshua Adjei
The Sigma Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Society honors a member of the Circle who has demonstrated a peak standard of leadership within the Circle and on the campus. The leader is nominated and elected by the current undergraduates, graduates and faculty of Omicron Delta Kappa. The award is named in honor of Col. J. Logan Schutz, who was a supporter of the Sigma Circle and served as President in 1937-1938.
JOHN B. SLAUGHTER OUTSTANDING SENIOR AWARD
RECIPIENT
RECIPIENT
Emily Berry
Pauline Sow
The John B. Slaughter Outstanding Senior Award is named after Dr. John B. Slaughter who served as Chancellor (President) of the University from 1982 to 1988. The award is presented to a senior of the African Diaspora who has been active on the campus, has been an advocate for the needs of students, and has an outstanding academic career.
The 40th Annual University of Maryland Student Leadership Awards — 2021
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LA RAZA UNIDA AWARD
MARY MCLEOD BETHUNE AWARD
The La Raza Unida Award, which translates as “the people united,” is presented to the senior class student who has contributed most significantly to the advancement of the Latino(a) student community at the University of Maryland and in the broader community as well as the general interest of the University.
The Mary McLeod Bethune Award is presented annually to the senior class student who has contributed most significantly to the advancement of the African American student community at the University of Maryland and the general interest of the University.
RECIPIENT
Joelle Everett
Diego Laboy-Morales
RECIPIENT
FINALISTS
FINALIST
Alysa Conway
Elisabeth Ramos
Sydney Sharp
LINDA CLEMENT OUTSTANDING ADVISOR AWARD
MILDRED & RICHARD LOVING AWARD
This award is presented annually to a University of Maryland faculty or staff member who has provided outstanding service as an advisor to a campus student organization. This advisor is a visible and integral part of the success of the student organization, contributes to the growth and development of individual students in the organization, and is considered a role model in terms of club advisement. It is named after the former Vice President for Student Affairs who provided exemplary leadership to the UMD campus community whose strong support for student organizations is one of her most significant legacies.
The Loving Award, named in honor of Mildred and Richard Loving for their bravery and perseverance in invalidating miscegenation laws via the landmark Supreme Court decision in Loving vs.Virginia. This award is presented to a member of the University of Maryland undergraduate community who has demonstrated a significant and ongoing commitment to multiracial and cross-cultural causes and communities. RECIPIENT Sara Wiatrak
RECIPIENT
FINALISTS
Meredith Epstein
Jazmine Diggs
FINALIST
Nabila Prasetiawan
Abani Pradhan LORDE – O’LEARY AWARD
The Lorde-O’Leary Award is named in honor of author and activist Audre Lorde and the late Professor Ron O’Leary of the University of Maryland Department of Theatre. The award is presented to the senior class student who has contributed most significantly to the advancement of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender student community at the University of Maryland and the general interest of the University. RECIPIENT Alexis Williams FINALIST Kathleen Hamilton-Campos
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OMICRON DELTA KAPPA SOPHOMORE LEADER OF THE YEAR
The University of Maryland Sophomore Leader of the Year is recognized by the Sigma Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa Leadership Society as the second year student who has demonstrated a diverse and high level of achievement in leadership and campus involvement. The recipient of this award best exemplifies the leadership qualities of the sophomore class. RECIPIENT Amy Rivera FINALISTS Aimee Dastin Josephine Urrea
The 40th Annual University of Maryland Student Leadership Awards — 2021
OMICRON DELTA KAPPA TOP TEN FRESHMEN
SARAH WINNEMUCCA AWARD
The Sigma Circle of Omicron Delta Kappa Leadership Society recognizes the Top Ten Freshmen of the University of Maryland. These individuals have demonstrated a high level of achievement in leadership and campus involvement in their first year at College Park. The award is given in anticipation of the recipients’ continued involvement with the University in years to come.
The Sarah Winnemucca Award is named in honor of Paiute activist, educator, and author Sarah Winnemucca and her tireless dedication in advocating for the rights of Native American communities. The award is presented to a member of the University of Maryland undergraduate community who has demonstrated a significant and ongoing commitment to Native American Indian and Indigenous communities.
RECIPIENTS
RECIPIENT
Akshaya Balaji
Jayda Fomengia
Steven Berit
Khalil Kwok
Sara Blau
Julia Liu
Pooja Dharmendran
Rowan Mohan
Lei Danielle Escobal
Karthik Nambiar
OUTSTANDING GRADUATE STUDENT ASSEMBLY MEMBER AWARD
This award honors and recognizes an outstanding member of the Graduate Student Government Representative Assembly. The award is given to an Assembly member who has gone above and beyond the call of their position in discharging their duties. RECIPIENT Misti Yang RESIDENT ASSISTANT OF THE YEAR AWARD
This award is presented to the Resident Assistant whose outstanding performance distinguished them among other staff members. The Resident Assistant makes a special contribution to their community, proven to be a role model for other staff, and provides significant leadership for community development while successfully managing their academic careers. RECIPIENT
Kevin Okoli STUDENT ATHLETE OF THE YEAR AWARDS
This award is presented to the outstanding male and female intercollegiate athlete each year. These students exemplify characteristics of the best definition of a student athlete, combining academic and athletic excellence as well as commitment to campus leadership. RECIPIENTS Kaila Charles Jared Bernhardt STUDENT WELLNESS AND MENTAL HEALTH ADVOCACY AWARD
Counseling Center Award for Student Wellness and Mental Health Advocacy is to acknowledge a University of Maryland, College Park undergraduate student who has demonstrated commitment to college student mental health and wellness through their academic, co-curricular, and or social activities on campus. Students selected for this award have engaged in a variety of activities that promote mental health awareness, help-seeking, education, and/or stigma reduction. Their work reaches a broad demographic and embraces values of diversity, inclusiveness and social justice. RECIPIENT Shoham Ghosh
Kelsie Challenger
The 40th Annual University of Maryland Student Leadership Awards — 2021
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VERA CRUZ-KOCHIYAMA AWARD
The Vera Cruz-Kochiyama Award, named after labor activist Philip Vera Cruz and Civil Rights Activist Yuri Kochiyama, is presented to the senior class student who has contributed most significantly to the advancement of the Asian, Pacific Islander, and Desi American student community at the University of Maryland and the general interest of the University. RECIPIENT
WILLIAM L. THOMAS STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION AWARD
The William L. Thomas Student Government Association Award is named after the late Vice President of Student Affairs. Bud Thomas served the University of Maryland for 27 years and he was lauded for his leadership in the institution. The Student Government Association gives this award to an SGA member who has exhibited outstanding leadership and service to the Student Government Association. RECIPIENT
Patrick Peralta FINALISTS Rhea Khatri Kavya Kumaran WILLIAM E. KIRWAN AWARD
The Kirwan Award is named in honor of William E. Kirwan who served as President of the University of Maryland from 1988 to 1998. Dr. Kirwan also served as Chancellor of the University System of Maryland from 2012 to 2015. The award is presented to a member of the junior class who has exhibited outstanding leadership and commitment to the college community during their collegiate career. Nominees are judged on the following criteria: involvement in student organizations and activities, service to the campus community, involvement in service to the broader community including community service and service learning, promotion of campus diversity or ethnic/race and international relations, outstanding academic performance, and leadership qualities including mentoring younger students. RECIPIENT Nabila Prasetiawan
Alysa Conway ___________________________________
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND GRADUATE STUDENT DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD
This award celebrates graduate students who have made outstanding contributions to the University community in the areas of scholarship, leadership, involvement and service. RECIPIENT Ruben Acevedo FINALISTS Melanie Arenson Christina Sessoms John Solerno Anna Windle
MEMBERS OF THE MARYLAND MEDALLION SOCIETY AND MODEL CITIZENSHIP PRIZES/ELKINS
FINALISTS Marjorie Antonio M Pease
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FINALISTS Dan Alpert
Divya Kapoor
Emily Berry
Kyeisha Laurence
Megan Berry
Alexandra Marquez
David Boutin
Peter Marston
Emily Brothman
David Polefrone
Alysa Conway
David Rekhtman
Joelle Everett
Julia Reicin
Kayla Foster
Sydney Sharp
Omolade Gbolade
Julianna Solomon
Radhika Gholap
Philippos Sourvinos
The 40th Annual University of Maryland Student Leadership Awards — 2021
WILSON H. ELKINS AWARD
The Wilson H. Elkins Citizenship Award is presented annually to a graduating senior who displays outstanding involvement and leadership in campus activities and who has contributed significantly to the general advancement of student affairs. The Award is named for Wilson H. Elkins who served the University as President from 1954 to 1978. RECIPIENT Emily Berry
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND MODEL CITIZENSHIP PRIZE
The University of Maryland Model Citizenship Award, is the most prestigious University award presented to two members of the graduating senior class who during their collegiate career has most nearly typified the model citizen and have contributed significantly to the general advancement of the interests of the University. RECIPIENTS Kyeisha Laurence Dan Alpert
The 40th Annual University of Maryland Student Leadership Awards — 2021
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We wish to thank all the awardees, their families, and their friends. Congratulations on your achievements and thank you for the contributions that you have made to the University of Maryland.
Many thanks to the Offices and Departments who participate in this event and have supported it throughout its fortieth year history. Special thanks to the Awards Coordinators and Awards Committees.
We would like to acknowledge all of the student organizations that have supported and are part of this event.
Thanks to the Adele H. Stamp Student Union—Center for Campus Life staff for sacrificing your time and energy to help produce a very important program to honor and recognize our students.
Many thanks to the Planning Committee: Joe Calizo, Brandon Dula,Yvette Lerma Jones, Donna Lim, Michelle Reese, Brooke Supple, and Terry Zacker. A special thanks to Dr. Brooke Supple and Omicron Delta Kappa for their co-sponsorship of this event.
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The 40th Annual University of Maryland Student Leadership Awards — 2021
AWARDS COORDINATORS
Adele H. Stamp Memorial Award
Omicron Delta Kappa Awards
Mr. Ayush Pokharel
Dr. Brooke Supple
Model Citizenship Prizes and Elkins Awards Dr. Brooke Supple
Outstanding Graduate Student Assembly Award
Ms. Sarah Williamson
Mr. Dan Laffin
Camille K. Rajpat Memorial Award for Outstanding Member of the University Student Judiciary
Outstanding Greek Leader of the Year
Mr. James Bond
Resident Assistant of the Year Award
Ms. Kiyah Tenee McDermid
Ms. Donna Metz Graduate Student Distinguished Service Award
Sarah Winnemucca Award
Ms. Jennifer Enriquez
Ms. Ghonva Ghauri
James Kehoe & Ethel Kessler Award
Student Athlete of the Year Awards
Mr. Luke Verdi
Ms. April Carroll
James O. William Cultural Leadership Award & John Slaughter Outstanding Senior Award
Student Wellness and Mental Health Advocacy Award
Ms. Anne Carswell
Ms. Carolina Ethridge
La Raza Unida Award Ms. Yvette Lerma Linda Clement Outstanding Advisor Award Mr. Joe Calizo Lorde-O’Leary Award
Ms. Lydia Ahn Vera Cruz-Kochiyama Award Ms. Dorothy Kou William E. Kirwan Award Dr. Terry Zacker
Ms. Yvette Lerma
William L. Thomas Student Government Award
Mary McLeod Bethune Award
Mr. Joe Calizo
Mr. Brandon Dula Mildred & Richard Loving Award Ms. Ghonva Ghauri
The 40th Annual University of Maryland Student Leadership Awards — 2021
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BIOGRAPHIES RUBEN ACEVEDO
AKSHAYA BALAJI
Ruben Acevedo received his BS from UCLA, his MS from UMD, and anticipates his Ph.D. from UMD in May 2021— all in Mechanical Engineering, with a focus on 3D, printed soft robotics. Ruben currently serves as President of MEGA and EGSS. Upon graduation, Ruben will work at BCG.
Akshaya is a Biology and Environmental Science and Technology dual degree ILS student from Clarksburg, Maryland. She founded MaryPIRG’s Antibiotics Campaign, is Freshman Representative of the BK Community Council and Speaker Lead for TedXUMD. She works on environmental research at UMD and is a Help Center Trainee.
JOSHUA ADJEI
Joshua Adjei is an Information Science major from Upper Marlboro, Maryland. This Dean’s List award recipient serves as a member of the African Student Association, the Black Engineers Society, and Code: Black. He serves his community through his work as a student ambassador at the Nyumburu Cultural Center. DAN ALPERT
Dan is a senior Marketing major with minors in International Development, Conflict Management and Jewish Studies. As a proud member of a Terp Family, he is thankful to have served as the Student Body President along with other leadership roles throughout his time on campus. MARJORIE ANTONIO
Marjorie Antonio is a Filipinx American curator and community organizer. She is a History and American Studies major who considers her academic work as a background for interracial and inter-ethnic solidarity and advocacy. Marjorie was a 2020 NextNOW Fest student curator, current FCArts Director, and incoming SEE Director. MELANIE ARENSON
Melanie is a fourth-year student pursuing her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology under the mentorship of Dr. Andres De Los Reyes. Her research interests revolve around trauma and related psychopathology, as well as posttraumatic growth and resilience. She holds multiple service roles focused on graduate education, mental health, and diversity.
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STEVEN N. BERIT
Steven is a Government and Politics and Computer Science double major with a concentration in data science from Newtown, Pennsylvania. He is part of the FIRE program working on the Global Development and Design stream. He also serves as an Undergraduate Studies Representative in SGA, is a member of Hack4Impact, works on the Undergraduate Studies’ Dean Student Advisory Committee, and is an ambassador for the Terps Vote Coalition. EMILY BERRY
Emily is a senior Government and Politics major in the BA/ MPP program from Annapolis, MD. She has become deeply involved in student leadership through student and academic affairs at UMD and hopes to attend law school after completing her MPP to become a public defender. MEGAN BERRY
Megan is a pre-med student studying Physiology and Neurobiology with a minor in Public Leadership from Annapolis, MD. She sought out mentorship roles and promoted inclusive and supportive communities through her involvement on campus. Megan aspires to attend medical school and pursue a career as a physician. SARA BLAU
Sara is a Business Management and Technology Entrepreneurship major from Brookville, New York. She is a member of the College Park Scholars community in the International Studies Track and a Hinman CEO Fellow. Sara sits on the executive board of the Real Estate Club, is a member of the Hillel Freshman Leadership Summit and is an Investment Analyst for Gold Ventures Investment through the TAMID Group.
The 40th Annual University of Maryland Student Leadership Awards — 2021
DAVID BOUTIN
POOJA DHARMENDRAN
David is an Electrical Engineering major and a member of University Honors and Hinman CEOs. He has served as the President of Theta Tau, on the SHPE National Board of Directors, Clark School Ambassador, member of the LSAMP Program and Terps Racing.
Pooja is a Biology major from Silver Spring, Maryland. This Dean Scholar is enrolled in the Honors College. She is volunteering with the organizations Amnesty International as a Student Activist Coordinator for Maryland and College Mentors for Success as a Mentor high school juniors.
EMILY BROTHMAN
JAZMINE DIGGS
Emily Brothman is an Elementary Education major with a minor in Public Leadership. She spent her time at UMD as a tour guide, Orientation Advisor, and co-president of the Terps Against Hunger. She looks forward to continuing her work with students as a teacher in Montgomery County this Fall.
Jazmine Diggs is a junior studying behavioral & community health with a certificate in women’s studies and a specialty in health risk behaviors. Jazmine serves as the vice president of the American Indian Student Union, community service chair for the Multi-Ethnic Mental Health Organization, the former Indigenous community outreach student intern for the Office of Multicultural Involvement and Community Advocacy, as well as a member of the Kappa Phi Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated.
KELSIE CHALLENGER
Kelsie is a senior Behavioral and Community Health major from Burtonsville, MD. Kelsie is an Easton Hall RA, Project Leader for UMD Public Health Without Borders, and just completed her fellowship for the USM President’s Symposium & White Paper Project. Kelsie will also be a Class of 2021 Senior Marshal. ALYSA CONWAY
Alysa is a Government and Politics and Public Policy double major from Perryville, MD. She was a member of the Mortar Board, Director of Academic Affairs for the Student Government Association,Vice President for Delta Alpha Pi and member of the Kappa Omega Alpha. AIMEE S. DASTIN
Aimee is an Economics (B.S.) and Theatre double degree with an Arts Leadership Minor from Silver Spring, Maryland. This Presidential Scholar and University Honors student serves as VP of the Economics Association of Maryland, VP of Talent Management for Women in Economics, and conducts research on global youth political participation.
MEREDITH EPSTEIN
Meredith is a Senior Lecturer and Advisor of Sustainable Agriculture in the Institute of Applied Agriculture. She has been the faculty advisor for the Community Learning Garden (CLG) Club since 2013. Meredith oversees maintenance and production at the CLG in community with many wonderful partners, including the student club. The CLG and the club provide a fun and safe space for anyone on campus to engage in growing food, flowers, and herbs - regardless of experience or dis/ability. LEI DANIELLE ESCOBAL
Lei Danielle Escobal is a Sociology major and Asian American studies minor from Glen Arm, Maryland. This Honors Humanities student is an active member of Filipino Cultural Association and commits her time on committee of FCArts. She is also a writer for Monumental Magazine and co-founder of a small business, Handmade.4.aid, which has donated over $1,500 to various organizations.
The 40th Annual University of Maryland Student Leadership Awards — 2021 11
BIOGRAPHIES (continued) JOELLE EVERETT
SHOHAM GOSH
Joelle Everett is a senior Information Science major. She is an alumna of the Design, Cultures, and Creativity Program in the Honors College. Joelle’s undergraduate experience has been diverse in her involvement with everything from Greek life to Student Affairs.
Shoham is a junior Biological Sciences major from Ellicott City, Maryland. This Banneker-Key Scholar and member of the ILS Honors College chairs the Mental Health Student Advisory Board and serves as the SGA Director of Health and Wellness. He also co-leads the mental health advocacy group,You Are Not Alone.
JAYDA FOMENGIA
Jayda is a Physiology and Neurobiology major from Beltsville, Maryland. This Banneker/Key Scholar serves on Recruitment Committee for Terp Thon and Big-Little Committee for CRD Minority Pre-Health Society. She volunteers with Maryland Mentor Corps and Lean on Me and is a member of Kesem and Prima Dolls Dance Team.
GRACE GRIFFIN
Grace Griffin is a senior kinesiology major from Sykesville, Maryland that is a two-time Big Ten Distinguished Scholar, two-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree, and a Gossett Fellow. This season as a midfielder for Maryland, Griffin was a First Team All-Big Ten selection and Tewaaraton nominee, one of the top-25 players in the sport.
KAYLA FOSTER
Kayla Foster is a Public Health Science major and Sustainability Studies minor from Bowie, MD. Kayla is involved in the MLEAD Program, Gemstone Program, Petey Greene Program, and RecWell. She plans to apply her passion for wellness and health equity to non-profit work before pursuing her MD and MPH.
KATHLEEN HAMILTON-CAMPOS
Kathleen Hamilton-Campos is a dual degree student in Astronomy and Physics. She has been involved in research and campus leadership throughout her time at UMD, taking advantage of opportunities to create a better, more inclusive climate. Outside of classes and officer roles, Kathleen can be found hiking and baking.
LADE GBOLADE
Omolade (Lade) Gbolade is a senior Cell Biology & Molecular Genetics major and French minor. She is an Orientation Advisor, Guided Study Sessions Lead Mentor, member of the Student Alumni Leadership Council, and Senior Council’s VP of Social Programming. She will be pursuing a master’s in Higher Education and Student Affairs.
DIVYA KAPOOR
Divya Kapoor is a senior Information Systems and Operations Management & Business Analytics double major. This three-time SEE Director is Gemstone’s Vice President of Engagement, the founder of UMD’s Drag Show, and is in Omicron Delta Kappa.
RADHIKA GHOLAP
RHEA KHATRI
Radhika is a Physiology and Neurobiology major with double minors in Spanish and Statistics who was part of the Integrated Life Sciences Honors Program. She has been involved with the American Medical Student Association, Banneker/Key Community Council, Omicron Delta Kappa, Honors Ambassadors, SGA, Terps for Change, and Honors College Student Advisory Board.
Rhea Khatri is a senior at the University of Maryland majoring in physics with a minor in statistics. She’s a member of the Physics Undergraduate Committee and president of the Indian Students Association. She hopes to attend graduate school for particle physics next fall.
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The 40th Annual University of Maryland Student Leadership Awards — 2021
KAVYA KUMARAN
JULIA LIU
Kavya is an accounting and management major that leaves a legacy of inclusive representation on campus, co-founding the South Asian Student Association (SASA) and serving as the President of Ascend, the Smith School’s Pan-Asian business leaders club. Post-graduation, she will work in Deloitte’s Tax service line in Baltimore.
Julia is a Finance major from Baltimore County, Maryland. This Design Cultures & Creativity Honors College student serves as the VP of Events for Smith Investment Fund. Julia is also an Honors Ambassador and member of the Executive Board of the Honors Student Programming Council. ALEXANDRA MARQUEZ
KHALIL KWOK
Khalil is a Public Policy major from Cherry Hill, New Jersey. On-campus, he is involved with Army ROTC, Student Alumni Leadership Council, and the Dean’s Student Advisory Board. He is an Ambassador for the School of Public Policy and an Academic Peer Mentor.
Alexandra Marquez is a senior Multi-Platform Journalism and Anthropology double major. She led the TerpsVote Coalition through the 2020 presidential election as the group’s Student Co-chair and also served as the Director of Civic Engagement for the Student Government Association for the 2020-2021 school year.
KYEISHA LAURENCE
PETER MARSTON
Kyeisha Laurence is a senior Cellular Biology & Genetics with a minor in French. Originally from Saint Martin, Kyeisha is a first-generation college student passionate about advocating for diversity and inclusion. Following graduation, Kyeisha plans to spend a year conducting research at the NIH before attending medical school.
Peter Marston is a senior General Biology major. Raised in the Netherlands, this College Park Scholar was a Teaching Assistant, a Research Assistant, and the Operations Coordinator for Camp Kesem. Peter was also a member of RHA, the UGST Dean’s Student Advisory Board, the University Senate, ODK, and SGA.
DIEGO LABOY-MORALES
ROWAN MOHAN
Diego was born and raised in Puerto Rico but considers Maryland home. He is a bioengineering major with interests in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Diego has served in the Maryland Reading program and Cru, a campus ministry. In his free time, he enjoys photography and reading.
Rowan is a Public Policy and prospective Journalism major from Potomac, Maryland. This Public Leadership Scholar serves as UMD Help Center’s Public Relations Director and as an SALC ambassador. She loves her work at Terpzone and is training to be an Adventure Leader through RecWell. She is looking forward to serving as a Federal Fellow during her sophomore year.
YSA LE
Ysa is a Neurobiology and Physiology major from Greenbelt, Maryland. She is a part of the University Honors Program and currently serves as a ULA for BSCI222.Ysa is also a member of the Kappa Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc and served as the president of the Multicultural Greek Council from Fall 2020-Spring 2021.
KARTHIK NAMBIAR
Karthik is an Information Systems and Finance major from Germantown, Maryland. This QUEST Honors student serves as the CMNS representative on the SGA legislative staff. He also serves on the Finance committee of SGA as well as a delegate of the Campus Transportation Advisory Committee. Karthik is currently leading an initiative for a push on affordable housing prices in College Park.
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BIOGRAPHIES (continued) KEVIN OKOLI
NABILA PRASETIAWAN
Kevin is a junior majoring in Physiology & Neurobiology, with an interest in pursuing dentistry. He currently holds roles as EGS Building Manager at the Stamp Student Union and Resident Assistant at The Courtyards. In addition to those, Kevin holds membership in other organizations, such as the OMSE Academic Excellence Society.
Nabila Prasetiawan is a Junior at the University of Maryland studying Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, and Women’s Studies with a minor in Asian American Studies. She is from Frederick, Maryland, and is a CIVICUS program alum. Nabila has been involved with Federal Fellows, Asian American Student Union, Student Entertainment Events, MaryPIRG Juvenile Justice Campaign, and Preventing Sexual Assault. Nabila serves as Chair of the Stamp Advisory Board and the Vice President of the Student Government Association.
M PEASE
M Pease is a junior psychology major with minors in Asian American studies, public leadership, and neuroscience. Their work at UMD largely focuses on diversity and inclusion, mental health, and using research in the pursuit of social justice. After graduation, M plans to pursue a doctoral degree in counseling psychology. PATRICK PERALTA
Patrick is a junior Government and Politics major and Asian American Studies minor. He is Vice President of the Asian American Student Union, and his research has been published by the Yale Review of International Studies. Postgrad, he plans on going to law school and working in the Foreign Service. DAVID POLEFRONE
David is a dual-degree student in Chemistry and Economics major. He is a member of both the Gemstone and QUEST Honors Programs. Outside the classroom, he has been an active member of campus life, particularly in student government. After graduation, he will begin a Ph.D. in chemistry at the University of Pennsylvania. ABANI PRADHAN
Abani Pradhan is an Associate Professor in the Department of Nutrition and Food Science (NFSC) & the Center for Food Safety and Security Systems (CFS3) at UMD. He is also the Director of NFSC Graduate Program. He has been serving as the faculty advisor of UMD Food Science Club, since 2012, and NFSC Graduate Student Organization, since 2017. Dr. Pradhan’s enthusiasm, guidance, encouragement, and proactive participation have tremendously led to the success of these organizations.
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ROMAN PUGLISE
Roman is a Finance/Management major from Lorton Virginia and a four-year letter-winner for the Maryland men’s lacrosse team. Puglise, a two-time team captain, has played a key role for the Terrapins throughout his career serving primarily as a midfielder. He was named a 2021 Second Team All-Big Ten selection and Inside Lacrosse Midseason All-American, helping lead the Terps to the 2021 Big Ten regular-season title. ELISABETH RAMOS
Elisabeth is Salvadoran-American, first-generation college student majoring in Early Childhood Education. She is an aspiring teacher with the desire of creating a positive educational foundation for her future students. Elisabeth has been involved in Hermandad de Sigma Iota Alpha, Incorporada, Summer Transitions Program, and La Familia Mentorship Program. JULIA REICIN Julia is a scholar-athlete on the Varsity Cross Country and Track & Field teams and in the Honors Program, double majoring in Psychology and Geographical Sciences. Julia serves as President of the Student Athletic Advisory Council, grew the Team IMPACT program, is a Philip Merrill Scholar, and a Truman Finalist.
The 40th Annual University of Maryland Student Leadership Awards — 2021
DAVID REKHTMAN
SYDNEY SHARP
David Rekhtman is a senior Biochemistry and Biology double major on the pre-med track. Throughout college, David has served as President of ODK, Speaker of the Student Government Legislature, Honors Ambassador, and a member of the University Student Judiciary. He has also conducted research and worked as a teaching assistant.
Sydney Sharp is a dual-degree student in Physiology and Neurobiology and African American Studies. She is a Banneker/Key scholar in the Integrated Life Sciences program and a member of ODK. She serves on the executive board of the Charles R. Drew Pre-Health Society and the Theta Nu Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. This fall, she will attend medical school.
AMY L. RIVERA
JULIANNA SOLOMON
Amy is a Criminology & Criminal Justice and Government & Politics major from Prince George’s County, Maryland. This Dean’s List scholar is the President of Political Latinx United for Movement and Action in Society (PLUMAS), Historian for Latinx Student Union, member of Global Communities, Director of UEXCEL Leadership Program, and Diversity & Inclusion Chair for Hermandad de Sigma Iota Alpha Inc. She serves as a weekly volunteer with the St. Camillus Food Pantry.
Julianna Solomon is a Physiology and Neurobiology major and a graduate of the Gemstone Honors Program. She is heavily involved in campus organizations including the Jewish Student Union and the Children’s Developmental Clinic. This fall, she’ll work for the organization City Year and support students at underserved schools in NYC, then apply to medical school. PHILIPPOS SOURVINOS
JOHN SALERNO
John Salerno is a Behavioral and Community Health Ph.D. candidate. He seeks to reveal and address complex subordinations among marginalized groups through intersectional, critical, and community-engaged research methods and paradigms. Salerno’s dissertation explores trauma and mental health needs among sexual and gender minority immigrant adolescents. CHRISTINA SESSOMS
Christina Sessoms, a Federal Way, WA native, is a doctoral candidate in the American Studies department, researching Black women, graduate education, and joy. Beyond being the Vice President of the BGSU, she serves the campus and the DMV in various capacities. She strives to alleviate institutional barriers impacting marginalized students.
Philippos Sourvinos Government & Politics and Theatre major. He was actively involved in the Orientation Office on campus for three summers. He was an active member of the Honors Humanities Program, Kappa Omega Alpha professional fraternity, Omicron Delta Kappa, and served on the ARHU Dean’s Advisory Board. PAULINE SOW
Pauline Sow is an Economics, Government & Politics, and Dance major from Bethesda, Maryland. She is a part of the Gemstone Honors Program, researching novel ways of making desalination adorable for Sub-Saharan African nations. In her time at UMD, Pauline has founded the Black Book, a resource guide for Black UMD students, and served as the President of the Black Alliance Network, the Vice-President of the Black Student Union, and the Director of Diversity and Inclusion for the Student Government Association.
The 40th Annual University of Maryland Student Leadership Awards — 2021 15
BIOGRAPHIES (continued) JOSEPHINE URREA
ANNA WINDLE
Josie is a Public Policy and Mandarin Chinese Double major. Josie serves as the Deputy Director for the Sexual Misconduct Prevention Committee of SGA. Josie also serves on the Senate Student Conduct Committee, Public Policy Dean’s Student Advisory Council, and works as a Community Assistant. Josie currently is a Peer Advocate for the CARE to Stop Violence office and interns at the Maryland General Assembly.
Anna Windle is a Ph.D. student with Dr. Greg Silsbe at the University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science, located at Horn Point Laboratory, Cambridge, Maryland. She is interested in spatial and temporal variability of coastal waters and works to connect in situ, satellite, and drone remote sensing to improve water quality monitoring.
RACHEL YU SARA WIATRAK
Sara from South Jordan, Utah is a junior double-majoring in Journalism and Government & Politics, and previously a FIRE Risk Communication & Resilience researcher. Amongst her almost dozen leadership roles as a Terp, she currently is President of the Multiracial Biracial Student Association and leads in AB, SGA, and University Senate. She’s passionate about combating gender-, race-, and class-based inequity.
Rachel is from Ellicott City, MD, and is graduating with degrees in Government & Politics and Information Systems and a minor in Asian American Studies. During her time at UMD, she has been involved with the University Student Judiciary, leading its Executive Board and serving for years as a Presiding Officer. She also does research and serves as a teaching assistant. Rachel will be pursuing a Ph.D. in political science after graduation.
ALEXIS WILLIAMS
Alexis Williams majors in Mathematics. She serves as a leader in Connecting Campus Queers and Allies, Women2Women, and Pride Alliance. Alexis will be starting her graduate degree in math education this fall and plans to focus on those students who feel they don’t have a voice in the mathematics classroom.
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The 40th Annual University of Maryland Student Leadership Awards — 2021
"Together you have all helped make us Terrapin Strong. Go Terps!" —Darryl J. Pines, PhD President, University of Maryland