Three 性视界 University students have been awarded prestigious graduate research fellowships through the , and one student has been recognized with an honorable mention.

The fellowship recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students who are pursuing research-based master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees in STEM, social sciences and STEM education in the U.S. The five-year fellowship includes three years of financial support, with an annual stipend of $37,000 and a $16,000 educational allowance. Students can apply as rising seniors, recent graduates or first-year graduate students.

The 2026 recipients of the NSF GRFP are the following:

• Julia Fancher 鈥�26, a physics major and applied mathematics major in the College of Arts and Sciences (A&S) and member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Daniel Hettrick, a first-year Ph.D. student in anthropology in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, and
• Gabe Suarez, a first-year Ph.D. student in theoretical physics in A&S.

Eadin Block 鈥�26, a physics major and Spanish language, literature and culture major in A&S, received an Honorable Mention in this year鈥檚 competition.

Julia Fancher

Fancher, a University Scholar, Goldwater Scholar and two-time Astronaut Scholar, was gifted a copy of 鈥淩ise of the Rocket Girls,鈥� a book about the women 鈥渉uman computers鈥� who worked at NASA鈥檚 Jet Propulsion Laboratory, when she was in middle school.

鈥淚 was instantly captivated by the stories of these women who discovered new insights into our universe through math and physics, and I knew that I wanted to do the same,鈥� she says. To kickstart that path, she actively pursued the STEM resources her school district and community had available.

During her first year at 性视界, she joined Professor Eric Coughlin鈥檚 high-energy astrophysics lab, where she researches tidal disruption events, in which a star is destroyed by the tidal field of a supermassive black hole. Her research has been published internationally and earned several awards.

Her second research project was a collaboration between Coughlin鈥檚 lab and local high school students through the 性视界 University Research in Physics summer program. She has also mentored students internationally.

Fancher plans to pursue a Ph.D. in astrophysics and become a professor conducting research in theoretical high-energy astrophysics.

鈥淭he NSF GRFP will provide me with the resources necessary to continue pushing the forefront of astrophysics research while nurturing the next generation of scientists,鈥� she says. 鈥淚 want to ensure that students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to explore their interests and are encouraged to pursue careers in STEM just as I was.鈥�

Daniel Hettrick

Hettrick’s research centers on the cultural resilience of the Kootznoowoo Tlingit, a Native Alaskan nation in Southeastern Alaska, during the period following the United States’ purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867.

Hettrick’s dissertation focuses on the former Tlingit summer village of Killisnoo, Alaska, occupied from 1867 to 1928. Using a holistic historical anthropology approach, he combines archaeological excavation, artifact analysis, ethnohistory, oral histories and Indigenous community collaboration to investigate how the Kootznoowoo Tlingit selectively adopted, adapted and rejected Russian and American cultural, religious and economic institutions鈥攁ll while preserving a distinct Tlingit identity.

His commitment to preservation was deepened through firsthand experience. He visited historic Orthodox churches in Sitka and spoke directly with Tlingit Orthodox Christians while conducting research as an undergraduate. Those conversations also complicated his assumptions: learning that community members held a genuine sense of pride in inhabiting both Indigenous and Orthodox identities pushed him to think more carefully about how people navigate multiple, seemingly contradictory cultural frameworks.

Hettrick is committed to building reciprocal relationships with the Angoon Tlingit before and throughout his research. He recognizes that access to a community’s history, particularly one that has faced exploitation by both the state and academia, must be earned through demonstrated respect, humility and a genuine exchange of value. His long-term goal is to make collaborative, community-centered archaeology the standard rather than the exception.

Gabe Suarez

Suarez works with Professor Alexander Maloney on three-dimensional quantum gravity. His path to theoretical physics was unconventional: raised in rural Danville, Kentucky, he began working as an apprentice electrician at 14, not because the work fascinated him, but because it sharpened a way of thinking he would carry into physics.

“If a system is logical, and you’re honest with yourself about what you do and don’t understand, you can reason your way to the answer,鈥� he says. That principle guided him through self-studying general relativity as a sophomore, completing five graduate courses as an undergraduate and being named Physics Senior of the Year at the University of Kentucky.

His senior thesis furthered a systematic categorical framework for Ward’s conjecture, a 1985 proposal that all integrable systems descend from a single universal gauge theory structure. He is quick to note that the conjecture’s value lies in its proof techniques, not its statement: the algebraic geometry and category theory required to settle it are precisely the tools modern fundamental physics increasingly demands. The tools connect directly to his Ph.D. work on how semiclassical Einstein gravity emerges from ensembles of conformal field theories.

Beyond research, tutoring his brother helped him learn that a teacher鈥檚 real job is showing someone they can learn, then stepping back. He has since carried that philosophy into recitation teaching, K-12 outreach and a return visit to his own rural high school, where he spoke to students who, like his younger self, may not yet see theoretical physics as a path available to them.

In addition to their faculty mentors, Fancher, Hettrick, Suarez and Block all worked with the University鈥檚 (CFSA) to prepare their applications.

Students interested in learning more about or applying for the next NSF GRFP award cycle or any other nationally competitive scholarships and fellowships should visit the聽聽or email聽cfsa@syr.edu聽for more information.

The Class of 2026 is wrapping up final assignments, studying for exams and gearing up for their next adventure. But the days before Commencement are a chance to take in everything campus has to offer one last time, whether it’s a final cup of coffee at People’s Place in Hendricks Chapel, a farewell slice of pizza at Varsity or a laughter-filled stroll through the Quad with friends.

Eight seniors shared with 性视界 University Today the one thing they need to do before they go.

Daniel Baris, a sport analytics and statistics major in the and the (A&S): 鈥淲in a championship in intramural wiffleball. My team has come close in the past, and I feel like this could be our year.鈥�

Caiyan Bass, a communication sciences and disorders major in A&S and a Remembrance Scholar: 鈥淭ake a trip up the Mount to visit Flint Hall, my freshman year residence hall. Walking through campus and the Quad to get to the top of the Mount steps was something I did every day when I first got to 性视界. Going back would serve as a fun moment to not only remember that uphill trek, but also to reflect on everything the past four years have taught and given me.鈥�

Juinkye Chiang, an architecture major in the : 鈥淚 want to build a full-scale mockup of my architectural design, as this will be one of the only opportunities I will ever have to access the advanced fabrication facilities in Slocum Hall.鈥�

Tommy DaSilva, a public health, policy studies and citizenship and civic engagement major in the and a Remembrance Scholar: 鈥淗ave a movie night with friends. With college ending, I know that there is a very low possibility that I will live so close to all my friends again, so I want to make the most of our last few weeks together through our film nights.鈥�

Janese Fayson, a marketing聽and聽finance聽major in the聽 and executive vice president of the (SGA): 鈥淰isit every academic building on campus. Somehow, there are still a few I鈥檝e never stepped foot in, and it feels important to experience all the spaces that make up the University before I leave. It鈥檚 a way of fully taking in everything 性视界 has to offer while closing this chapter feeling complete.鈥�

Joy Mao, a television, radio and film major in the聽, policy studies major in the Maxwell School and A&S and a Remembrance Scholar: 鈥淚 took Fashion and Portraiture with Professor Gregory Heisler my sophomore year. It was an impactful class for my creative brain. One of the photographers we researched was Margaret Bourke-White, the first female photographer for Life magazine and the first female war correspondent. She gave her work to the University after she retired. I would like to visit the in Bird Library prior to graduation.鈥�

Emma Muchnick, a sport management major in the Falk College and a midfielder on the : 鈥淏efore I graduate, I want to win a national championship. To be able to bring back a national championship to 性视界 with this group would be so special and a perfect way to cap off my time as a student-athlete here. I’m so proud to represent this University and I want to do it on the biggest stage.鈥�

German Nolivos, a political science major in the Maxwell School and A&S, public relations major in the Newhouse School, SGA president and a Remembrance Scholar: 鈥淰isit the chimes in the bell tower in Crouse College. It鈥檚 such a meaningful and recognizable part of the University, representing the history and tradition that defines the 性视界 experience. Being able to stand there before graduating feels like a full-circle moment.鈥�

Through leadership, academics and an unwavering commitment to the Orange community, annually two students earn one of the most distinguished honors of a 性视界 University undergraduate career, being named the Senior Class Marshals. For the Class of 2027, the Student Experience division is proud to announce William Lewandowski 鈥�27and Alyssa Limjuco 鈥�27 as the rising Senior Class Marshals.

Together they will guide their graduating class during Commencement, play a role in recommending the Commencement speaker and engage directly with senior University administrators to discuss student experiences and perspectives. Among other responsibilities, Lewandowski and Limjuco will represent their class at Universitywide events and build connections with alumni.

“From integrity, heart and academics, to a genuine passion for community, William and Alyssa embody everything we hope to cultivate in our students. As Class of 2027 Senior Class Marshals, they have earned this honor not just through achievement but through both big and small intentional daily actions that have culminated into what it means to truly have Orange pride,” says , associate vice president for the Student Experience division, dean of students and chair of the selection committee.

William Lewandowski

Originally from Lockport, New York, Lewandowski is preparing to enter his final year at 性视界 University more than 60 years after his grandfather, Dr. James Olson 鈥�60, had his own student experience. Despite the distance, he says he has always found a piece of home within the Orange community.

Sharing an alma mater not only deepened Lewandowski鈥檚 bond with his grandfather but illuminated shared lifestyle philosophies that have ultimately built a foundation for being a Senior Class Marshal.

鈥淓very time I would go back home from 性视界 University, I would talk to him and he loved hearing all my stories and what I was doing on campus,” says Lewandowski. “As a dentist for 50 years, he impacted so many people with his quality of care but also with his humility and willingness to accept payment in the form of homemade cookies or plants for his garden. He didn鈥檛 care who you were, he just wanted to make a positive impact on the lives of others. He taught me that true joy in life comes from people. It鈥檚 the people at this University that make it so great. I learned that very early on as a first-year student within the Whitman Living Learning Community.鈥�

A Whitman Leadership Scholar and member of the dean鈥檚 list, Lewandowski is pursuing a bachelor鈥檚 degree in entrepreneurship and emerging enterprises in the . He has worked as a peer mentor and lead ambassador, showcasing the Whitman student experience for prospective and admitted students.

Throughout his undergraduate career his pursuit of experiential learning has propelled him into countless opportunities offered by 性视界 University. Weaving together hands on experience in venture capital, consulting, content marketing and private equity, Lewandowski鈥檚 internships have spanned Triangle Insights Group, 5Point Venture Partners and Blue Star Innovation Partners.

Helping student entrepreneurs and working to spark student interest in entrepreneurship, Lewandowski has spent much of his time immersed in the University’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Additional highlights include his participation in the , where he has served as an Entrepreneur-in-Residence and as an Entrepreneurship Fellow. Expanding into content creation, he has been published in Poets&Quants, 鈥�,鈥� and Ecology Prime, 鈥�.鈥�

鈥溞允咏� University gave me a platform to be who I want to be,鈥� says Lewandowski. During his undergraduate career Lewandowski has showcased where his academic rigor meets real-world impact. He has worked to help launch the new and has further harnessed his entrepreneurial spirit by starting two businesses. Clique Sports is a digital platform focusing on connecting college athletes with professional athletes regarding guidance and mentorship, and WM Media is focused on adding DJ and photography services to local events.

鈥淭o me, being Orange is about the people鈥攎aking an impact on the lives of others to help them achieve their goals,鈥� says Lewandowski. 鈥溞允咏� University is a place where new ideas are encouraged and innovation is supported. There are big changes approaching the University and as the Class of 2027 we can become agents of change and leave our mark, which is quite a special opportunity.鈥�

Alyssa Limjuco

Alyssa Limjuco may have joined the Orange community from Silver Spring, Maryland, but she grew up in a military family, which meant moving between different places and school systems. These experiences quickly taught her how to adapt and understand different spaces and people, a skillset rooted in community building and empathy, that she has strengthened throughout each of her undergraduate experiences.

鈥淚 try to lead with empathy, stay open-minded and be someone who helps bridge gaps between groups,鈥� says Limjuco. 鈥淏eing selected as a Senior Class Marshal felt like recognition of a lifelong learning process. Not just the end result of my undergraduate experience but each time it has taken and will take, to get comfortable, to find my voice and to become someone who contributes meaningfully across different spaces while also fostering connections.鈥�

As a student in the (VPA) and the , Limjuco is a dual major in film and sociology. Her dedication to academic excellence is quickly realized through multiple scholarships alongside membership in the Phi Kappa Phi Honors Society, being a Ren茅e Crown University Honors Scholar and never missing a dean鈥檚 list placement.

As an Honors Academic Enhancement Awards recipient, studying abroad in Bologna, Italy, become possible. During this time she immersed herself in experiential learning weaving together classes that explored film history, visual strategy and preproduction planning, alongside Cinema Ritrovato, the world鈥檚 leading festival of restored cinema. Professional development highlights also include serving as the communications manager for the OrangeReels Film Festival and producing viral digital content as the Project FreeFall video editor.

鈥淲hat 性视界 University gave me was permission to explore fully and commit deeply. Receiving honors and merit-based scholarships, including support to study abroad, affirmed that interdisciplinary work was not only possible here but valued,鈥� says Limjuco.

Limjuco鈥檚 involvement spans widely as an active member of communities both on and off campus. On campus she has helped to connect veterans and military families with relevant support programs through the , she serves as the National Panhellenic Conference vice president of communications, as an active member of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority, a VPA peer coach, a Shaw Center STEM literacy tutor, OTTOthon team captain and as president of the Boxing Club. Globally, she amplifies the mission of Habitat for Humanity International, as video production and editing intern and as a volunteer for Habitat鈥檚 Women Build, a program that builds stronger and safer communities.

鈥淭he legacy I hope to leave is one of connection, demonstrating that involvement across disciplines, identities and roles strengthens a campus rather than divides it. I hope to be remembered as someone who embraced the full breadth of 性视界 University, someone who led with intention, while believing and supporting through intentional actions, that the University is at its best when students are encouraged to bring all parts of themselves into the spaces they serve.鈥�

Nearly four decades after the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 claimed 35 性视界 University students, a new cohort of scholars is keeping their memory alive.

The Remembrance Scholarships, now in their 37th year, were founded as a tribute to鈥攁nd means of remembering鈥攖he students studying in London and Florence through 性视界 University who were killed in the Dec. 21, 1988, bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland. Those students were among the 270 people who perished in the bombing. The scholarships are funded through an endowment supported by gifts from alumni, friends, parents and corporations.

Significant support for the Remembrance Scholarships has been provided by Jean Thompson 鈥�66 and 性视界 University Life Trustee Richard L. Thompson G鈥�67 in memory of Jean Taylor Phelan Terry 鈥�43 and John F. Phelan, Jean Thompson鈥檚 parents; by Board of Trustees Chairman Emeritus Steven Barnes 鈥�82 and Deborah Barnes; by The 性视界 Association of Zeta Psi in memory of Alexander Lowenstein; and by the Fred L. Emerson Foundation.

Selection Process

Remembrance Scholars are chosen in their junior year through a competitive selection process. Applicants submitted an essay and a reflective response in multimedia, artistic, musical or written format as part of a comprehensive application. The application evaluation committee is composed of University faculty and staff and current Remembrance Scholars. The $5,000 scholarships are awarded on the basis of community impact, leadership, creativity and thoughtful academic inquiry.

鈥淭he Remembrance Scholars bring something exceptional to our University: a commitment to learning, to leading and to giving back. Through their accomplishments, they carry forward the legacy of the students for whom these scholarships were created. Recognizing them is both a privilege and a point of deep pride for 性视界 University,鈥� says Lois Agnew, vice chancellor, provost and chief academic officer.

The Remembrance Scholars plan the Remembrance activities held at the University each year, and the cohort will be recognized during a convocation in the fall.

2026-27 Remembrance Scholars

The 2026-27 Remembrance Scholars, their hometowns, majors and schools and colleges are the following:

• Victoria Alwar of Homa Bay, Kenya, a biology major and neuroscience major in the College of Arts and Sciences (A&S) and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Madiou Bah of Bronx, New York, a broadcast and digital journalism major in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications and an economics major in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs and A&S;
• Sigourney Bell of Birmingham, Alabama, a broadcast and digital journalism major in the Newhouse School and member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Nasya Simone Bellard of Concord, North Carolina, a political science major in the Maxwell School and A&S;
• Tyler Branigan of Delhi, New York, a policy studies major and economics major in the Maxwell School and A&S, an environment, sustainability and policy major in the Maxwell School and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Teaghan Brostrom of Sacramento, Califorrnia, an international relations major in the Maxwell School and A&S, a broadcast and digital journalism major in the Newhouse School and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Keona Bukhari-Adams of Springfield, New Jersey, a neuroscience major and psychology major in A&S;
• Mason Burley of Webster, New York, an inclusive adolescent education major in the School of Education and history major in the Maxwell School and A&S;
• Samuel Esteban Cornell of Houston, Texas, an international relations major in the Maxwell School and A&S and finance major in the Martin J. Whitman School of Management;
• Eliora Enriquez of Doon, Iowa, a film major in the College of Visual and Performing Arts (VPA);
• Quinn Gonzalez of Wantage, New Jersey, a nutrition major in the David B. Falk College of Sport and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Jiya Gumaste of Ashburn, Virginia, a chemistry major and neuroscience major in A&S;
• Shivika Gupta of Rochester, New York, a political science major in the Maxwell School and A&S and law, society and policy major in the Maxwell School;
• Abigail (Abi) Handel of Newton, Massachusetts, a biology major in A&S and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Alexis Heveron of Rochester, New York, a chemical engineering major in the College of Engineering and Computer Science (ECS);
• Emily Hunnewell of Chicago, Illinois, a policy studies major in the Maxwell School and A&S and a business management major in the Whitman School;
• Daniella Jacob of Millburn, New Jersey, a health and exercise science major in the Falk College and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Sydney Kincaid of Seattle, Washington, a music education major in VPA and the School of Education;
• Kennedy King of Pasadena, California, an anthropology major and political science major in the Maxwell School and A&S, an art history major in A&S and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Chloe Anjolie Kiser of Edinboro, Pennsylvania, an advertising major in the Newhouse School and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Carmen Lee-Bennett of Buffalo, New York, a biology major in A&S and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Aaron Lener of Homer, New York, a linguistic studies major in A&S, an international relations major in the Maxwell School and A&S and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Haonan (Eric) Ma of Beijing, China, a student in the School of Architecture;
• Carter J. Moreland of Dallas, Texas, a political science major and an economics major in the Maxwell School and A&S;
• Darren Murphy of San Ramon, California, an applied mathematics major in A&S, an economics major in the Maxwell School and A&S and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Sophia Hoyos Murray of Northborough, Massachusetts, a psychology major and biology major in A&S;
• Matilda Nichols of Fairfield, Connecticut, a chemistry major and forensic science major in A&S;
• Will Parsons of Albany, New York, a chemical engineering major in ECS;
• Alana Ramirez-Velez of Manati, Puerto Rico, a biology major and neuroscience major in A&S and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Ella Roerden of 性视界, New York, an anthropology major and international relations major in the Maxwell School and A&S;
• Sreshtha Thangaswamy of Edison, New Jersey, a political science major and economics major in the Maxwell School and A&S;
• Halle Varney of Potsdam, New York, a psychology major in A&S;
• Cara Williams of Greenwood, Indiana, an international relations major in the Maxwell School and A&S, a political philosophy major in A&S and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Katie Wood of Clifton, Virginia, a musical theater major in VPA and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program; and
• Chelsea Zhang of Suzhou, China, and Hayward, California, a student in the School of Architecture.

OlaRose Ndubuisi 鈥�29 knows from experience that disability looks different for everyone and the challenges a person is facing privately may not always be readily visible to those around them.

The first-year student, who is dual majoring in biology and journalism, has spent the last several years transforming some of the hardest experiences of her life into poetry, advocacy and community. Her poetry, which documented her own journey with scoliosis with raw honesty and hope, earned her the title of New York State Youth Poet Laureate for 2024-2025.

Ndubuisi, who is a Coronat Scholar and in the , is passionate about encouraging others to use creative outlets to positively express their own emotions and challenges. That will be the focus of an April 17 event hosted by the Disability Cultural Center,

Ndubuisi will discuss navigating her own experiences as a student with disabilities, including being born as a one-pound premature infant, having unilateral hearing loss and being diagnosed with severe scoliosis.

Ndubuisi says it means a lot to her to speak during Disability Pride Month.

鈥淎fter reading a poem about my own scoliosis journey, I’m going to show students how to use creative outlets to positively express themselves, their emotions and how we all can face our own invisible challenges by leading a fun writing and art workshop,鈥� she says.

Resiliency and Creativity After a Diagnosis

As a kid, Ndubuisi thought the medical challenges she experienced from being born prematurely, including unilateral hearing loss in her right ear, a perforated esophagus and weak muscles, would be the hardest experiences of her life.

鈥淒espite all of that, I played the piano and I was able to play tennis despite my hearing loss,鈥� she says. 鈥淚’m able to recite poetry, compose my own music.鈥�

But when Ndubuisi was 14, she says her world turned upside down when she went to the doctor for a routine checkup. She wanted to get cleared to play on her school鈥檚 tennis team, but when she mentioned to a stand-in doctor that she had been experiencing bursts of pain and that she felt she was shorter than her peers, the pediatrician decided to screen her for scoliosis and ordered an X-ray.

The results showed severe scoliosis鈥攁n S-shaped curvature of the spine, with her lower curve measuring in the surgical range. For the next year and a half, she wore a brace 22 to 23 hours a day and attended physical therapy and yoga every week. The pain was constant, and she often felt isolated from her peers.

鈥淚 was able to use writing, art and music to positively express my emotions and cope with my pain, turning my pain into something beautiful and relatable,鈥� she says.

At the age of 15, Ndubuisi underwent vertebral body tethering surgery, but complications left her with more pain than before. She used a wheelchair for five months as she recovered from the surgery, and she had to miss the second half of her 10th grade year.

鈥淚’m proud of my resilience and that I was able to work really hard and maintain all A’s, and I was able to go back to school for 11th grade and the rest of high school,鈥� Ndubuisi says.

An occupational therapist recommended a music therapist, who introduced Ndubuisi to music composition software during those difficult times. She now has more than 100 original compositions and has released several on Spotify.

From Personal Pain to Public Advocacy

Her experience with scoliosis inspired her to establish the (FiSK) Project, a nonprofit focused on awareness, education and support. Ndubuisi created an educational survey that has reached more than 25 states and 19 countries, and a T-shirt fundraiser featuring her artwork and lines from her poetry raised more than $5,000 to support free scoliosis screening in underserved communities.

Back home in the Rochester, New York, area, she founded a FiSK Club at her high school, running writing and art workshops, organizing music concerts and creating space for students to talk openly about invisible struggles.

The work Ndubuisi does with FiSK has dovetailed with her advocacy as New York State Youth Poet Laureate. In that role, she has led workshops for young people across the greater Rochester area and has been a featured reader at literary events statewide, including a headlining appearance at a poetry reading tied to artist at the Guggenheim Museum.

She also hopes people learn from her own experiences that the challenges or difficulties you face 鈥渄on鈥檛 have to negatively affect the trajectory of your life.鈥�

鈥淪coliosis has been a really difficult and painful challenge for me, but it’s also shaped me into who I am,鈥� she says. 鈥淚t’s definitely made me even more resilient and strong, even more compassionate through meeting other kids with scoliosis and being able to share my story.鈥�

takes place April 17 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Barner-McDuffie House.

Twelve graduating seniors have earned the title of 2026 性视界 University Scholar鈥攖he highest undergraduate honor the University awards鈥攔ecognized for their academic excellence, independent research and creative work, and contributions to their fields. The scholars were selected by a Universitywide faculty committee.

“It is a great privilege to recognize our University Scholars and all they have accomplished鈥攆rom academics to research to service鈥攐ver the course of their undergraduate years,鈥� says Vice Chancellor, Provost and Chief Academic Officer Lois Agnew. 鈥淭hese graduating seniors have truly distinguished themselves, and I have no doubt that the contributions they make beyond 性视界 will be as remarkable as the ones they have made here.鈥�

The 2026 性视界 University Scholars are the following:

• Daniel Baris, a sport analytics major in the David B. Falk College of Sport, a statistics major in the College of Arts and Sciences and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Juinkye Chiang, a student in the School of Architecture and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Rylie DiMaio, a health and exercise major in the Falk College and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Julia Fancher, a physics major and an applied mathematics major in the College of Arts and Sciences (A&S) and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Edward Lu, a music composition major in the College of Visual and Performing Arts and a music history and cultures major in A&S;
• Gustavo Madero Carriles, a political science major in the Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs and A&S and a public relations major in the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications;
• Sadie Meyer, a biomedical engineering major in the College of Engineering and Computer Science (ECS) and mathematics major in A&S;
• Jorge Morales, a history major and anthropology major in the Maxwell School and A&S and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Maya Philips, a biology major and communication sciences and disorders major in A&S and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Nathan Torabi, a political science, citizenship and civic engagement and law, society and policy major in the Maxwell School and A&S and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program;
• Gianna Voce, a computer science major in ECS and a neuroscience major in A&S; and
• Qiong Wu, a general accounting, finance and business analytics major in the Martin J. Whitman School of Management; an economics major in the Maxwell School and A&S; a mathematics major in A&S and a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program.

The scholars will be recognized at the University鈥檚 Commencement ceremony on May 10 in the JMA Wireless Dome. The student Commencement speaker will be chosen from among their ranks.

There鈥檚 warmth emanating from the Noble Room in the lower level of Hendricks Chapel every Monday night whenever classes are in session.

Every sewing machine buzzes and hums as the members of the make handmade quilts that will keep vulnerable Central New Yorkers warm during the winter months.

鈥淭hose are chaotic nights. Everybody is working on a project that will end up at one of our partner charities,鈥� says quilting enthusiast Judy O鈥橰ourke 鈥�75, G鈥�10. 鈥淚t鈥檚 nice knowing you鈥檙e helping someone out, and it鈥檚 nice knowing that something I enjoy doing is giving somebody else comfort.鈥�

O鈥橰ourke is one of 10-15 active members of the Hendricks Chapel Quilters鈥攃onsisting of students, staff, faculty and community members鈥攚ho put their love of sewing to good use weekly to produce beautiful quilts.

The common threads that keep members coming back? A love of quilting, a desire to find connection and a willingness to give back to the community.

鈥淭here鈥檚 a real camaraderie around this group,鈥� says George Athanas, the associate director for the Center for Learning and Student Success, who first joined the club 21 years ago. 鈥淭his reminds me of what quilting circles and quilting guilds used to be like, folks coming together to engage with their community, meet new people and learn along the way.鈥�

Helping Vulnerable People Feel Seen and Valued

Quilts are most frequently donated to the local chapter of , which builds beds for children in the community, to chaplains at SUNY Upstate Medical University, who deliver the quilts to terminally ill patients, and to food pantries who partner with聽 on their community outreach efforts.

During last year鈥檚 weekly meetings, the Hendricks Chapel Quilters produced 59 quilts that were donated. Each finished product is signed with a tag noting that the quilt was created with love by the Hendricks Chapel Quilters. O鈥橰ourke says nearly 95% of the fabric, sewing machines and other materials used have been donated by generous community members.

鈥淭his reflects what service is all about, investing time and energy to make the world a better place,鈥� Athanas says.

Besides the added source of warmth, Jennie Prouty, InterFaith Works鈥� community engagement manager, says the recipients are often touched by the kindness and generosity of strangers who make time to create and then donate these intricate quilts.

鈥淭hese quilts are an opportunity for individuals and families in our communities, who often feel unseen, to know there are people who care deeply about their well-being,鈥� Prouty says. 鈥淭he element of them being handmade is a level of intentionality that many clients don鈥檛 typically receive.鈥�

Made With Love

In the fall, students in Liz Lance鈥檚 one-credit honors class, Quilting for Fun and Community, learn how to quilt alongside the Hendricks Chapel Quilters, who provide support and offer advice to the novice quilters.

鈥淭his is a unique offering,鈥� says Lance, who started teaching the course in the Fall 2024 semester. 鈥淭he average age of quilters is older and retired, but here, we have 20-, 21- and 22-year-old college students learning alongside our quilting guild. Spanning that age gap and bringing these people together is the most special part about this because it represents intergenerational learning, which can be hard to find.鈥�

O鈥橰ourke, who started sewing in childhood, picked up quilting in 1998 as the advisor to that year鈥檚 cohort of Remembrance Scholars. Those students wanted to make a Remembrance Quilt to honor the 35 性视界 University students who died in the bombing of Pan Am Flight 103 over Lockerbie, Scotland, in 1988.

Current Remembrance Scholar Joy Mao 鈥�26 had no prior experience quilting or sewing, so she was nervous when she walked into the Noble Room for her first class last fall.

Those nerves quickly melted away. On the first night, students were introduced to their sewing machine, which they would use throughout the semester. Mao learned about the tools she鈥檇 be using鈥攔anging from a needle and thread to a seam ripper and cutters鈥攁nd became more familiar with her machine as the course progressed.

Starting with four-by-four-inch quilting squares, Mao and her classmates are tasked with identifying the colors and patterns that will tell the story of their quilt. Each square consists of nine patches, and each finished quilt consists of 81 total squares. If time allows, students add borders, known as sashes, as filler between the squares.

During their last class, students stand before their peers and present their quilt, knowing their finished product will provide warmth to someone in need.

“You get to make with your hands and give with your hearts, and these quilts are all made with love,鈥� says Mao, who is studying television, radio and film in the and policy studies in the . 鈥淚t was great knowing we were creating something that would have an impact on and give back to the greater 性视界 community.鈥�

The hold meetings from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Monday evenings when classes are in session. No previous sewing experience is required, and all materials, as well as access to a sewing machine, are provided during the club鈥檚 weekly meetings. For more information about joining or donating fabric or sewing machines, please contact Judy O鈥橰ourke.

The has announced Charlotte Bingham 鈥�27 as the 2025-26 Luise and Morton Kaish Fellow.

Through the philanthropic gift of 性视界 University alumni and prominent artists鈥疞uise 鈥�46, G鈥�51鈥痑nd Morton鈥疜aish 鈥�49, the Kaish Fellowship program was established in 2021. The program provides funding for undergraduate students from any discipline to undertake original research rooted in the museum鈥檚 permanent collection. Fellows work directly with museum staff on exhibitions, scholarly publications and public programming.

Bingham is a junior majoring in anthropology and digital humanities with a minor in museum studies. She is part of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors program and has studied abroad in Strasbourg and Edinburgh.

Bingham has enjoyed exploring the connection between humans and the places they inhabit and sees the fellowship as a unique opportunity to explore how the works in our collection represent and interact with our connection to place. The museum鈥檚 current permanent collection exhibition, “Human/Environment: 4,000 Years of Art,” along with other works by Luise and Morton Kaish provide a springboard for Bingham’s research.

鈥淚 knew that [the fellowship] would be a great way for me to develop my research interests while also getting to experience work in a museum setting,鈥� Bingham says. 鈥淎rt and anthropology are very deeply connected. To me, both are trying to reproduce or represent something about human culture 鈥� I don鈥檛 have a lot of experience interpreting art, so I鈥檓 curious to see how I end up analyzing things.鈥�

Over 500 students gathered in Hendricks Chapel Sept. 5 to celebrate the new academic year in the first Assembly of Scholars.

The event consisted of speeches from three students and the interim Director of Honors and Associate Dean for Academic Initiatives and Curriculum in the College of Arts and Sciences Laura Machia; Honors core faculty member and School of Information Studies Professor Steve Sawyer; and Associate Director of Honors Allie Heppner. Together, the speakers ushered in a new year of community building, commitment and curiosity.

All students in the program were invited to attend.

During his speech, Sawyer asked students from each school to stand and be recognized, highlighting the various academic disciplines represented.

鈥淲hen I call out your college or school, please stand. Then, look around and see the community of masters and scholars that you can join,鈥� Sawyer said.

Take Advantage of the Opportunities

The student speakers鈥擟hidera Olalere 鈥�26, Katie Rogers 鈥�26 and Nathan Torabi 鈥�26鈥攕hared various stories about community involvement, academic excellence and ambition that served to show how the University experience is what each student makes of it.

Olalere, an international student from Nigeria, emphasized the importance of initiative and self-advocacy when it comes to research and academic success. She encouraged students to take advantage of resources like the 性视界 Office of Undergraduate Research and Creative Engagement (the SOURCE), labs on campus and faculty who are eager to work with committed students.

鈥淵ou have so many resources available to you, but you need to choose to use them,鈥� said Olalere. 鈥淭ake advantage of every opportunity you have and lean on the experiences of those sitting around you.鈥�

Rogers said her 鈥渨hy not鈥� attitude led her to many amazing experiences during her three years at the University.

鈥淚n my eyes, the possibility of finding another community or home on campus and making new friends is much more exciting and will override any fear of trying something new,鈥� Rogers said. She said Honors is less about extra requirements and more about exploring and opening doors.

Embrace Honors

Torabi invited students to think about their own unique paths and to embrace the diversity and challenge built into the program.

鈥淓very single one of us will push each other to do more by contributing our own perspectives, pushing boundaries and making the most of our short time here,鈥� Torabi said. He highlighted the personal growth that comes from Honors requirements like the thesis and civic engagement.

While distributing lapel pins to the students at the end of the program, Heppner said, 鈥淣ot every hour of your college journey will be spent in Honors classes or events, but your identity as an Honors student is something you carry into everything you do … You are not alone. You are part of something larger.鈥�

As the assembly concluded, Machia left the crowd with some words of wisdom. 鈥淔irst, it is okay to change your mind. I do not have the career I first imagined I would. I love my career,鈥� he said. 鈥淪econd, it is okay to lean into the messier parts of life and learning. Give yourself grace to grow at whatever speed you do, while treating yourself and others kindly.鈥�

Story by Charlotte Bingham

College of Arts and Sciences Dean has announced the appointment of , associate dean for academic initiatives and curriculum and professor of psychology, as interim director of the . In this role, Machia will be responsible for program administration, student advising and support, faculty coordination and curriculum oversight.

鈥淟aura鈥檚 commitment to academic excellence for all students is reflected by her willingness to act as interim director of Honors during a key time for this valuable program,鈥� Mortazavi says. 鈥淚n her full-time role as associate dean for academic initiatives and curriculum, she is instrumental in ensuring that our programs are high-functioning and strategically aligned with college and University priorities. Therefore, I know that the Honors Program will also be in incredibly capable hands.鈥�

Machia鈥檚 leadership comes at a pivotal time for the Honors Program. This semester, a working group, convened last spring by Interim Vice Chancellor, Provost and Chief Academic Officer , will conduct a comprehensive review of the program. As a member of the working group, Machia will maintain the program鈥檚 academic excellence while collaborating with fellow members to develop recommendations for long-term enhancement.

The working group, composed of faculty or dean representatives from the schools and colleges that participate in the Honors Program, is charged with:

• Identifying ways to better link the Honors Program to the areas of distinctive excellence outlined in the , especially experiential inquiry.
• Reviewing the Honors Program curriculum.
• Determining how the Honors Program thesis requirement can better accommodate students in the professional schools and colleges.
• Proposing a governance structure for the Honors Program, including bylaws, a charter or charge, a mission statement and a governing and/or advisory body.
• Suggesting strategies to create more faculty engagement and involvement with the Honors Program.

Working group co-chairs are , associate provost for strategic initiatives, and , vice provost for faculty affairs. In addition to Machia, members are:

• , Edward Pettinella Professor of Finance, Martin J. Whitman School of Management
• , dean, School of Education
• , assistant teaching professor, College of Professional Studies
• , associate professor, School of Architecture
• , associate professor and chair of political science, Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs
• , associate professor of music, College of Visual and Performing Arts
• , associate professor of advertising, S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications
• , professor, School of Information Studies
• , associate professor of nutrition and food studies, Falk College of Sport
• , teaching professor and biomedical engineering undergraduate program director, College of Engineering and Computer Science

The working group will submit a final report to the provost by the end of the semester.

An alumna and a student have received awards from , the nation鈥檚 oldest and most selective collegiate honor society for all academic disciplines.

Charlotte Ebel 鈥�25, who received a bachelor鈥檚 degree in public relations from the and in women鈥檚 and gender studies and German from the , has been awarded a fellowship worth $8,500 by the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi. She is one of 48 recipients nationwide to receive a PKP fellowship.

Ayla Ray, a junior majoring in biology in Arts and Sciences and in environment, sustainability and policy in the , was awarded a Phi Kappa Phi Pioneer Award, which recognizes outstanding undergraduates for their research and leadership.

Phi Kappa Phi has a long history at 性视界 University. A chapter was established on campus in 1916, the 16th chapter in the nation at the time.聽In 2014, reorganizations left the 性视界 chapter without a leader. The chapter was relaunched in the spring of 2024 by the (CFSA). Adam Crowley, scholarship advisor with CFSA, serves as chapter president.

More than 150 members were inducted into Phi Kappa Phi this spring, bringing the total to more than 350 new members in the first two years of the restarted chapter.

Charlotte Ebel

At 性视界, Ebel was a member of the , a University Scholar, Remembrance Scholar, Newhouse Scholar and Newhouse Marshal. She was also a research assistant in Professor Nick Bowman’s Extended Reality lab and a member of Newhouse’s student-run public relations firm, Hill Communications. She was inducted into the 性视界 PKP chapter in 2024.

Ebel was also a member of the University鈥檚 Division I rowing team. As such, she trained 20 hours a week and helped the team win the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) championship in 2024. She was a member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee for two years and served as vice president in 2024-25.

As a Phi Kappa Phi fellow, she will pursue a master’s degree in politics and international studies at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom beginning in September. She also plans to try out for the Cambridge University Boat Club in hopes of winning a seat in one of their crews in the historic Boat Race between Cambridge and Oxford. The race, held on the Thames River, is a major sporting event in the U.K.

At Cambridge, Ebel plans to study sportswashing鈥攖he practice of using sports to improve the reputation of a country, organization or individual鈥攚ithin the context of women’s sports. She plans to explore why some countries with extensive recorded histories of women’s rights abuses participate in global women’s sporting events, which are typically associated with progressive ideology and women’s liberation.

鈥淚n many cases, these countries are also trying to normalize their extremist governments and establish diplomatic relations,鈥� Ebel says. 鈥淚 hope to illuminate these connections between global politics, women’s rights and women’s sport through my research, connections that have become more prominent in recent years with the heightened popularity and visibility of women in sport.鈥�

As for the future, Ebel has several avenues she is interested in pursuing, from working for an international sporting organization to the Peace Corps to law school. 鈥淚’m hoping that my year at Cambridge will help clarify my passions into a career that best utilizes them,鈥� she says.

Ayla Ray

Ray, who has a minor in Earth sciences, is a member of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors program and the recipient of the 1870 Scholarship. She was inducted into the 性视界 PKP chapter this past spring. In her first semester, she joined the fungal ecology lab of Christopher Fernandez, assistant professor of biology. In the lab, she has designed, received SOURCE () funding for and is actively running an experiment investigating the effects of warming and drought on the productivity and stability of plants and mycorrhizal fungi.

Fungal ecology is a field Ray is deeply passionate about. 鈥淚 am able to investigate below ground organisms that provide a strong foundation to their ecosystems and host plants,鈥� she says. 鈥淭he ecological perspective my lab pursues allows me to connect my research with a strong variety of fields. Understanding how our forests are responding to climate change conditions on a microbial level is crucial as we work to support ecosystem resilience and pursue effective restoration efforts.鈥�

Ray is a recipient of the H. Richard Levy Biology Research Award. As a researcher for Fernandez this summer, she has investigated the impacts of pH, soil organic matter and inoculum source on plant productivity and leaf litter decomposition.

A member of the Outing Club, Ray enjoys hiking, backpacking, caving and rock climbing. She is a volunteer for the South Campus Food Pantry and will be a peer mentor for SOURCE this year.

Following graduation, Ray plans to pursue a Ph.D. in ecology and continue research investigating the below ground impacts of climate change聽as they relate to host plant and forest productivity

鈥淩eceiving the PKP Pioneer Award is an honor, I am proud to be recognized by such a prestigious organization, which prides itself on its value of knowledge,鈥� Ray says. 鈥淏eyond this recognition, this award provides meaningful support of my undergraduate research journey, allowing me to focus more fully on my academic and research goals.鈥�

In 1988, alumna Robin Berkowitz-Smith 鈥�83 returned to 性视界 University as a newlywed and a professional ready to work with students. What began as a dual job offer for her and her husband, Jeff, turned into Robin鈥檚 38-year legacy of mentorship, leadership and care for thousands of students and fellow staff members.

“My deepest gratitude goes out to all who supported, challenged and inspired me throughout my 38-year career here,鈥� says Berkowitz-Smith. 鈥淚t’s been an honor and all will be missed.鈥�

Berkowitz-Smith鈥檚 connection to 性视界 started long before her professional tenure began. As an undergraduate, she was a resident advisor in Sadler Hall and worked in Food Services. After graduating in 1983 with a bachelor鈥檚 degree in nutrition management, she pursued a master鈥檚 degree in higher education administration at Kent State, where she met her future husband. The couple returned to 性视界 in 1988, newly married and eager to begin their careers in higher education.

Her early years were spent in residence life, where she initially served as a residence director (RD) in Flint Hall. Her husband was the RD in Day Hall, and they split their time between two apartments on Mount Olympus.

Building Community and Supporting Students

Over the years, Berkowitz-Smith climbed the ranks, becoming a coordinator on South Campus, then assistant director and eventually associate director, overseeing all of the residence halls on North Campus (which at the time housed more than 5,000 students).

The most challenging parts of the job were helping students navigate roommate issues and assisting students dealing with personal struggles. 鈥淚 really learned to mediate and to listen, and to collaborate with others to provide the support that students needed,鈥� she says.

Berkowitz-Smith鈥檚 care was also felt by her colleagues.

Rebecca Reed Kantrowitz, associate dean at Hendricks Chapel, says Berkowitz-Smith helped smooth her transition to the University when she arrived in 2002 as the director of the Office of Residence Life.

鈥淪he was an incredible colleague鈥攕teadfast, deeply compassionate and absolutely student-centered in everything she did. Her warmth, insight and candor have had such a lasting impact on all of us who鈥檝e had the privilege of working with her,鈥� Kantrowitz says. 鈥淩obin always kept it real鈥攁lways genuine, always grounded, always honest.鈥�

Every year on opening weekend, Berkowitz-Smith would walk every floor of every residence hall before move in, checking to make sure resident advisor door tags and bulletin boards were up and welcoming.

鈥淭hat level of care sent such a strong message to staff, students and their families:聽You matter, and how you’re welcomed matters,鈥� says Kantrowitz.

Berkowitz-Smith was also invested in her students鈥� social and leadership development. She was instrumental in launching such programs as Orange After Dark, and initiated and implemented the first overnight retreat to build community among honors students.

A Move to Academics

In 2018, after three decades in residence life, Berkowitz-Smith transitioned to the academic side of the University, joining the College of Arts and Sciences as an academic advisor.

Four years later, she joined the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program. It was a shift driven by a desire to return to her passion鈥攚orking directly with students. 鈥淚 didn鈥檛 want to supervise anymore,鈥� she says. 鈥淚 wanted to advise and to connect.鈥�

She quickly realized that what students needed most wasn鈥檛 a thesis advisor鈥攊t was someone who cared. 鈥淭hey just need someone to tell them that they鈥檙e doing okay, that they鈥檙e enough,鈥� she says.

鈥淥ver the years, Robin has made invaluable contributions to the honors program. As an academic advisor, her love for students played a major role in ensuring that honors students had meaningful student experiences and thrived academically,鈥� says Danielle Smith, professor of African American studies in the College of Arts and Sciences and director of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program. 鈥淩obin taught the honors sophomore seminar, and students learned so much from her about conducting research, doing community service, preparing for internships and other professional opportunities. Her guidance has been instrumental for the growth of students.鈥�

Allie Heppner, associate director of the Ren茅e Crown University Honors Program, says Berkowitz-Smith鈥檚 dedication, thoughtfulness and behind-the-scenes leadership shaped the student experience in profound ways. 鈥淩obin leaves behind a legacy and a community of staff, faculty and students who are excited to celebrate her next chapter and will long appreciate the positive mark she made,鈥� she says.

Berkowitz-Smith鈥檚 daughters, Brianna 鈥�13 and Alea 鈥�14, G鈥�15, were greatly impacted by their mom鈥檚 tenure at the University. They lived in a South Campus apartment when they were small and grew up on campus, attending ORL picnics and student events.

When it came time for college, their parents took them to look at other colleges and universities, but they both gravitated back to 性视界. Both were resident advisors during their time here. 鈥淭hey bleed Orange too,鈥� says their mom. Both are now elementary school teachers in the Liverpool Central School District.

Celebrating a Legacy of Caring

For her retirement, Berkowitz-Smith鈥檚 colleagues and former students compiled a 30-minute video filled with messages of gratitude. The words that came up the most? 鈥淐aring,鈥� 鈥渟upportive鈥� and 鈥渕entor鈥濃�攖estament to the relationships she built over nearly four decades.

The decision to retire wasn鈥檛 an easy one, she says. A Philadelphia native and first- generation college student, she has been working since she was 12. But after her mother鈥檚 passing and with her daughter鈥檚 wedding approaching, she felt it was time.

Retirement for Berkowitz-Smith, however, doesn鈥檛 mean slowing down. She is already enrolled in a class on ancient China, intends to return to ceramics and is planning for a trip to Japan and China with her husband. She also looks forward to spending more time in her garden. 鈥淚 am not saying I won鈥檛 work again,鈥� she says. 鈥淏ut right now, I want to find me again.鈥�

Jorge Morales 鈥�26, a double major in history and anthropology in the with a minor in English and textual studies in the , has been awarded the highly competitive .

Morales is one of only 20 students nationwide to receive this prestigious award, which supports exceptional undergraduates in their pursuit of graduate studies in the arts, humanities and social sciences.

A and member of the , Morales has distinguished himself through his academic excellence, research achievements and commitment to public scholarship. He has already contributed original research to the field of Caribbean history, focusing on the legacies of colonialism, slavery and resistance in Jamaica and the corresponding implications for the broader Atlantic world.

鈥淚 am interested in studying the impacts of colonialism and colonial institutions on the development of Caribbean and Latin American nations, their cultures and their national identities,鈥� says Morales, who is spending the summer conducting research in Puerto Rico to gain insights into the lives of enslaved individuals on Puerto Rican plantations for his senior thesis. 鈥淢y family being Puerto Rican, I am especially interested in understanding the development of Puerto Rico and of Puerto Rican national identity, and it is this interest, and my experiences working with Dr. Tessa Murphy, which informs my current research.鈥�

As a research assistant to , associate professor of history in the Maxwell School, Morales helped transcribe 19th-century slave registries from Trinidad, working with exceptional attention to detail, timeliness and conscientiousness to transcribe hundreds of pages of handwritten records. His work has been presented at numerous campus symposiums and published in CHRONOS, the University鈥檚 undergraduate history journal, where he also serves on the editorial board.

鈥淛orge is committed to drawing on his personal and professional interest to pursue a Ph.D. and academic career in history,鈥� says Murphy. 鈥淗is initiative, intellectual rigor and commitment to public history are extraordinary. He is already contributing new knowledge to the field.鈥�

Morales鈥� application was supported by the (CFSA), where he worked closely with Director Jolynn Parker. 鈥淛orge combines intellectual seriousness with warmth, humility and a deep sense of purpose,鈥� Parker says. 鈥淗e is exactly the kind of scholar the Beinecke Foundation seeks to support鈥攐ne who is poised to thrive in graduate school and become a leader in his academic field.鈥�

Morales plans to pursue a Ph.D. in history, with a focus on the Caribbean and Atlantic worlds, and has a long-term goal of becoming a professor or museum professional who brings marginalized histories to broader audiences.

鈥淚 am very happy to have been awarded the Beinecke Scholarship because it will provide me with resources that I can use to support my future research,鈥� says Morales. 鈥淚t will allow me to form connections with other students who are just as passionate about their work as I am.鈥�

The Beinecke Scholarship provides $35,000 in funding toward graduate education as well as significant mentorship. Is is awarded to students who demonstrate superior academic achievement and a commitment to a career in research or the arts.

CFSA offers candidates advising and assistance with applications and interview preparation for nationally competitive scholarships. The nomination process for the 2026 Beinecke application will begin in October. Interested students should contact CFSA at 315.443.2759 or by email to聽cfsa@syr.edu聽for more information.