Successor to Herman B Wells, Elvis Jacob Stahr Jr. was inaugurated as president of Indiana University on November 19, 1962. Dr. Stahr arrived at IU with an already extensive resume, having been a Rhodes Scholar, a practicing attorney, provost of the University of Kentucky and University of Pittsburgh, president of West Virginia University, and Secretary of the Army under John F. Kennedy. In 1966, the prestigious Elvis J. Stahr Awards were established in Dr. Stahr’s namesake to honor IU seniors that have excelled academically while serving as active campus and community leaders.

For 2024, we would like to honor Tarrek El-Saadi, Sarah MacGregor, Poorabi Nanda, Sarah Richardson, Cooper Sykes, and Emma Uber with the Elvis J. Stahr Award to honor all of their achievements on the IU Bloomington campus and service efforts within the community.

Tarrek El-Saadi

Tarrek El-Saadi is graduating from the Kelley School of Business with a Bachelor of Science in Business in Economic Consulting and Operations Management with a co-major in Business Analytics. 

Tarrek is a John E. Thiel Memorial Scholar, a Richard Essling Memorial Scholar, and a Myers Scholar. While at Indiana University, he participated in several case competitions, including competitions held by the Hong Kong University of Technology and another at the University of Southern California. As a member of the Dean’s Insight Board for Kelley, Tarrek has helped the administration set strategic goals to improve students’ experiences at Kelley. As president of the Student Veterans of America chapter at Bloomington, he has been able to help veterans integrate with an academic and civilian environment and help them develop professionally. 

Acknowledgments

“Thank you to Muge Tuna, Patti Wheeler, Jasmine Summitt, and Dan Piekarsky for being incredibly supportive of me throughout my Kelley career. You all have helped make my transition from the Marine Corps an easy one. Without you all, I wouldn’t be where I am today. Also, thank you to my friends for being there to support me and making my college experience unforgettable.” 

Sarah MacGregor

Sarah MacGregor is graduating from the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs with a Bachelor of Science in Arts Management and the Jacobs School of Music with a Bachelor of Science in Ballet with an outside field in Public Financial Management. 

Sarah is a recipient of the Music Faculty Awards Scholarship. She has led collaborations between the Ballet Department and other campus and community departments and organizations. Sarah has collaborated with the Media School, performed in two IU operas, and most notably led a group of dancers in a collaboration with Fairview Elementary. Sarah has served as Studio Administrator for the Jacobs Academy Ballet program for three years and on the Marketing committee of the IU Student Foundation during her sophomore year. In 2022, Sarah participated in the course “The Non-Profit Sector in the Comparative Perspective” in Copenhagen, Denmark. 

Acknowledgments

“I would like to thank all of my professors and advisors who pushed me, guided me, and helped create the leader I have become. Most of all, I want to thank my parents, family, and friends for their endless support and always believing in me.” 

Poorabi Nanda

Poorabi Nanda is graduating from the College of Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Arts in History and Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with minors in World Political Systems and Geography. 

Poorabi is a Wells Scholar and IU Global Engagement Scholar. She has served as a research assistant studying Latinx voting behavior and political participation, as Secretary General for the Indiana Model United Nations Conference, and worked with groups like the Eleanor Roosevelt Society to encourage women to participate in the fields of international relations and foreign policy. She has also served for two years on the Indiana University Journal of Undergraduate Research as a member of its Social Sciences Board. 

Acknowledgments

“I would like to thank my mother for her unwavering support. I would also like to thank Professor Vanessa Cruz Nichols, Professor Christoph Irmscher, Professor Ishan Ashutosh, and Brian Seavey for their encouragement and guidance.” 

Sarah Richardson

Sarah Richardson is graduating from the School of Education with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a minor in Child and Adolescent Mental Health. 

Sarah is a Provost’s Scholar, an IU Alumni Board Scholarship Recipient, and a Jongsma Family Global Gateway Scholarship Recipient. She has been a member of the School of Education’s Dean’s Advisory Council since her freshman year at Indiana University, serving as the co-president during her 2022-2023 year. Through the Dean’s Advisory Council, she helped to advocate for undergraduate students within the School of Education, create a community among the student body, and raise money to support Teacher’s Warehouse.  

Sarah has also participated in Paso a Paso, Orthodox Christian Fellowship, and the Inspire Living Learning Center. She is completing her student teaching both at Meredith Nicholson Elementary School 96 in Indianapolis as well as a school in Auckland, New Zealand. 

Acknowledgments

“Thank you to my professors and instructors who mentored me throughout my time at IU. Thank you to my family who has always supported me.” 

Cooper Sykes

Cooper Sykes is graduating from the College of Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Science in Geography, from the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs and College of Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental and Sustainability Studies. He is also completing minors in German and Water Resources Science, Policy, and Management. 

Cooper is a Wells Scholar, Dean’s Scholar, and National Merit Scholar. Cooper served IU as a delegate to COP28, the UN’s annual climate conference, in Dubai, UAE. He won the Lester Spicer Department of Geography Poster Award. Cooper has been involved on campus as Vice President of Students for New Green World, an Undergraduate Research Assistant in the Venier Laboratory, a Sustainability Scholar, a McKinney Climate Fellow, a Hospitality and Discipleship Intern for Jubilee Bloomington, a Director for the IU Student Athletic Board, and the host for “Cooper’s Classical Corner” on WIUX. His article “To Bee, or Not to Bee: A Commentary on International Neonicotinoid Regulation” was published in the Indiana University Journal of Undergraduate Research. 

Acknowledgments

“I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the indescribable love and support shown to me both personally by my parents, my sister, my extended family, my partner, Ana, my beloved friends, and my cats, and professionally by Christoph Irmscher, Marta Venier, Yuri Kim, and Markus Dickinson through their immaculate mentorship during my time at IU. My accomplishments pale in comparison to the incredible people I have had the immense pleasure of knowing here in Bloomington, and all the credit for this award belongs to their kind souls.” 

Emma Uber

Emma Uber is graduating from The Media School with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and from the Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies with a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies with a minor in Spanish.

Emma is a Herman B Wells Scholar, Ernie Pyle Scholar, and Provost’s Scholar. She has written and edited for the Indiana Daily Student, where she worked as the sole education reporter in Monroe County at just 19 years old and published an award-winning investigation into the Monroe County eviction crisis. At the Michael I. Arnolt Center for Investigative Journalism, she spearheaded a partnership with the Associated Press, served as one of the four inaugural student board members, and published national investigations into a variety of issues ranging from rural hospital closures to underage sports betting. During her study abroad experience in Seville, Spain, she conducted interviews at a women’s rights march and wrote a feature story on football as a microcosm for both the tensions and joys of Spanish society. This summer she will serve as a Reporting Intern for The Washington Post. She is honored to have been selected as one of the two Bradlee Fellows, in honor of legendary former Washington Post Executive Editor Ben Bradlee. 

Acknowledgments

“I would like to thank the Herman B Wells Scholars Program and Christoph Irmscher. Pursuing a career I wholeheartedly love in an industry that is notoriously competitive is a privilege that would not be possible without the Wells Scholars Program. The company of my brilliant fellow scholars pushed me to be dedicated and disciplined, Christoph’s support of whatever my vision for myself may be encouraged me to explore everything IU has to offer, and generations of impressive Wells Alumni taught me to strive to leave a legacy. Thank you to Kathleen Johnston for taking me seriously when I came to you as a junior in high school and told you I wanted to be an investigative journalist. Thank you to Gerry Lanosga for being my EPS mentor and a wonderful professor. Thank you to the IDS for my professional development and my closest friends. Thank you to my family for your unfaltering support and your promise to track me down wherever my passions take me, regardless if that means Bloomington or Spain or Washington D.C.” 

Kate Hevner Mueller served Indiana University from 1937 to 1969 as Dean of Women, Senior Counselor for Women, and Professor of Education. Dr. Mueller was a national pioneer for women professionals and developed the Master’s Program in College Student Personnel (Higher Education and Student Affairs) at Indiana University in the early 1950s. The Kate Hevner Mueller Senior Awards were established in 2013 to honor IU seniors who have proven leadership on campus both inside and outside of the classroom and who have improved the IU community through their presence.

This year, Indiana University selected 28 outstanding recipients for the Kate Hevner Mueller Outstanding Senior Award. In this article, we’re congratulating Zoe Bardon, Merly Barrios, Arpan Bose, Nick Bronico, Gabriella Couloubaritsis, Caroline Covey, and Ara Cowper for their ability to represent Dr. Mueller’s essential goals of the university: to promote intellect, develop personality, and inspire citizenship and leadership to all students.

Zoe Bardon

Zoe Bardon is graduating from the College of Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Arts in Gender Studies and minors in Political Science, Sociology, and Spanish.

Zoe is a Wells Scholar and Founders Scholar. Throughout her time at IU, she co-authored two reports on the status of nonprofit relationships in Indiana and lived in Denmark and Spain to study feminist theory and sex work policy. During her sophomore year, Zoe served as Deputy Director of Activism for the College Democrats of Indiana, where she mobilized college students to advocate for public education. The following year, she interned for US Senator Patty Murray in Washington, DC. In her final year, Zoe worked for Themester and the Kinsey-Kelley Center for Gender Equity in Business.

Acknowledgments

“I would like to thank my family for their unconditional love and support, especially through the pandemic. I would also like to thank my K-12 teachers, graduate instructors, and professors, who fostered my love of learning and challenged me academically.”

Merly Barrios

Merly Barrios is graduating from the IU School of Nursing with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. 

She is a 21st Century Scholar, a Groups Scholar, and the recipient of a Dr. Joyce Splann Krothe Nursing Scholarship. She has served as a student nurse apprentice at Parkview Health, specializing in cardiac progressive care, and as a cardiovascular technician at IU Health. She is a member of the IU Bloomington chapter of the Omega Phi Beta sorority and has served on the executive board. She has also volunteered for Groups Scholars to provide tutoring in anatomy courses. 

Acknowledgments

“I’d like to express my profound gratitude to all individuals who have consistently provided support, guidance, and assistance throughout my journey as a first-generation Latina at Indiana University. While the path has been challenging, I take great pride in the opportunity to contribute to my community and offer aid to those who aspire to walk a similar path in the future.” 

Arpan Bose

Arpan Bose is graduating from the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering with a Bachelor of Science in Informatics and a minor in Sports Marketing and Management. 

Arpan is an IU Global Engagement Scholar and has been on the Dean’s List for seven semesters since he began attending IU. He serves as the Lead Peer Mentor for the Luddy Living Learning Center, shoots photos for Luddy Marketing & Communications, and is a Luddy Ambassador. Within the IU Athletics Department, he is the Hoosier Hype Crew Captain for IU Basketball and Football, a Graphic Design Intern at the Mark Cuban Center for Sports Media and Technology, and a Ball Boy for IU men’s & women’s soccer. Arpan is also involved as an Adobe Student Ambassador and serves as the Co-President for the IU Adobe Creative Club. 

Acknowledgments

“Thank you to my parents for their unwavering support throughout the adventures we’ve embarked on during our worldwide journey! To all my beloved friends, mentors, and co-workers in Athletics and Luddy, thank you for the many fond memories we have created together!” 

Nick Bronico

Nick Bronico is graduating from the Kelley School of Business with a Bachelor of Science in Business in Finance and Real Estate.  

Nick is a Dean’s Scholar and Founders Scholar. He founded the IU Private Equity Program, which consists of two separate programs under the Kelley School of Business: the Private Equity Workshop and Crimson Equity Partners, an entirely undergraduate-led private equity fund for traditional buyout investments. He has also served as the Co-President of the IU Real Estate Club, Co-President of the Restructuring & Distressed Investing Club, and Vice President of the IU Real Estate Private Equity Program (Sample Gates Management).  

Acknowledgments

“I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have some tremendous upperclassmen and faculty mentors who have shaped my IU experience. Specifically, I would like to give a big thanks to Professors David Haeberle, Doug McCoy, and Dave Harstad for helping me grow both professionally and personally during my time in college.” 

Gabriella Couloubaritsis

Gabriella Couloubaritsis is graduating from the Kelley School of Business with a Bachelor of Science in Business Degree in Entrepreneurship and Corporate Innovation with a minor in Law and Public Policy.  

Gabriella is a Dean’s Scholar, Founders Scholar, Hutton Honors Balfour Scholar, and Rosemary Tanner Scholar. Gabriella served as the 114th Indiana Memorial Union Board President, increasing the number of student events through more campus partnerships, launching the IMU Art Initiative to diversify the art in the IMU, and launching the first-ever student IMU Catering menu to reduce costs by 33% and include more diverse cuisine for students. Her other experiences include mentoring for the Kelley School of Business Honors Program and serving as a research assistant at the Hamilton-Lugar Tobias Center. Gabriella has also participated as a member of the Jellison Living Learning Center, the Kelley Consulting Workshop, and as a featured artist in the Hutton Honors Art Showcase. 

Acknowledgments

“IU has made me feel like the luckiest and happiest person because of the amazing people here. I would not have gotten anywhere without my amazing IU support network, including friends, classmates, mentors, professors, staff members, and administrators. Thank you to my nominators and recommenders, especially Alison Kvetko through the Kelley Honors program, Hank Walter through Union Board and the IMU, and Sarah Bauerle Danzman through my research role at Hamilton-Lugar.” 

Caroline Covey

Caroline Covey is graduating from the Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies with a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies and a Bachelor of Arts in Slavic East European Languages and Cultures on the Russian Track. 

Caroline is a Dean’s Scholar and Founders Scholar. She served as former President of the Phi Mu Fraternity, where she collaborated with Panhellenic and Greek presidents to improve Greek Life. Caroline has also tutored student-athletes and worked as a teacher’s assistant. Caroline has completed two theses for her honors notation. One of her theses explored strategic stability in the context of the Russia-Ukraine war and attempted to analyze nuclear theories as they have evolved from the Cold War. Her second thesis utilized her Russian skills and analyzed the impacts of nineteenth-century censorship on Aleksandr Pushkin.  She has also interned for the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies and Boeing’s Defense, Space, and Security Division.  

Acknowledgments

“Thank you to my parents, who have supported me through all my college endeavors and thank you to my wonderful professors who have pushed me, encouraged me, and made my time at IU worthwhile. Спасибо!”

Ara Cowper

Ara Cowper is graduating from the School of Public Health with a Bachelor of Science in Sport Marketing and Management and a minor in Coaching and Leadership. 

Ara is a 21st Century, Founders, and Lauren Robel scholar, as well as a seven-time Dean’s List member, Academic All-Big Ten honoree, and Big Ten Distinguished Scholar. She is a varsity student-athlete on the Indiana Rowing team, where she is also an executive board member on SAAC, a Hoosier Hero mentor, and a member of Women Impacting Others (WIO). This year, she was the Rose Bowl Game Keith Jackson Postgraduate Scholarship Recipient. Ara is a social media and digital intern for IU Athletics and a social media specialist for the Indiana Pacers. She has worked with social media for the NCAA, the Big Ten Conference, and CBS Sports during her time at IU. 

Acknowledgments

“To my parents, Mum and Cory; my WCHS family, Shan, McClung, Fish, Papa H, G, and Byrket; my IU support system, Shawn, J.T., Madi, Lisa, and Mattie; Lynnea, Rachel, and the rest of my Cuban Center family; and my Indiana Rowing teammates and IU Athletics family: thank you. Every day, I am amazed that I get to be surrounded by the most incredible people who love and support me, invest in me, and encourage me to chase after my dreams. There aren’t enough words for the impact you’ve had on my life, and I can only hope that everyone gets to one day experience the love and support that I have received from you.”

Kate Hevner Mueller served Indiana University from 1937 to 1969 as Dean of Women, Senior Counselor for Women, and Professor of Education. Dr. Mueller was a national pioneer for women professionals and developed the Master’s Program in College Student Personnel (Higher Education and Student Affairs) at Indiana University in the early 1950s. The Kate Hevner Mueller Senior Awards were established in 2013 to honor IU seniors who have proven leadership on campus both inside and outside of the classroom and who have improved the IU community through their presence.

This year, Indiana University selected 28 outstanding recipients for the Kate Hevner Mueller Outstanding Senior Award. In this article, we’re congratulating Isabelle deCastro, Caterina DeSantis, Emery Donald, Amangul Hydyrova, Annetta Itnyre, Marsha Koda, and Mofe Koya for their ability to represent Dr. Mueller’s essential goals of the university: to promote intellect, develop personality, and inspire citizenship and leadership to all students.

Isabelle deCastro

Isabelle deCastro is graduating from the Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies with a Bachelor of Arts in International Law and Bachelor of Arts in Spanish with a minor in Cybersecurity Policy and a certificate in Political and Civic Engagement. 

Isabelle is a Hudson and Holland Scholar, a Provost’s Scholar, and a David E. Albright Scholar. Isabelle has been involved on and off campus as a member of the PACE Leadership Council and Sigma Iota Rho Honors Society. She has served as an intern for the Hamilton Lugar School, an intern for The White House Office of Public Engagement, a student liaison with the Monroe County Chapter for the National Organization for Women, and a student employee for PACE and the Big Ten Voting Challenge. 

Acknowledgments

“Thank you to all the faculty and fellow students who have made all my involvements on campus worthwhile; these are relationships I will cherish forever. Also, thank you to my family—Mom, Dad, Jacob, and Carly—you have made me into the person I am; I’m forever grateful and appreciative!”

Caterina DeSantis

Caterina DeSantis is graduating from the College of Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Arts in Media Advertising, a minor in Studio Art, and a certificate in Journalism. 

Caterina is a Media Scholar, John Ritter Scholar, Tom Hirons Scholar, and Caine Family Scholar. She has been involved in SEASON Fashion Magazine since her Freshman year doing everything from video content to layout design. She has also been a Resident Assistant at Willkie dormitory for the past three years. Caterina has also worked as a multimedia intern at the Office of the Provost, strategically telling stories about the IU and Bloomington communities. Last semester, she functioned as lead art director for The Beautiful Thinkers Project podcast and is currently continuing her work for the podcast. 

Acknowledgments

“Thank you to Ethan Gill, one of my mentors, for nominating me for this award, and to all my professors, friends, and family that helped encourage me to always do my best during my time at IU.” 

Emery Donald

Emery Donald is graduating from the College of Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a minor in World Political Systems. 

Emery is a Dean’s Scholar and has been on the Executive Dean’s List throughout  her undergraduate education. She has worked as a Residential Assistant at Willkie Residence Hall, mentoring first-year students and serving on Willkie’s Diversity Board. Emery has also participated as a Peer Educator for the Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Victim Advocacy. This position allowed her to advocate for survivors of sexual violence and educate students on the importance of consent. 

Acknowledgments

“First and foremost, I want to extend my deepest thanks to my parents, Amanda and Nick, for their unconditional love and support. Additionally, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my mentors, Marcus, Marie, and Lea, as their guidance and support have been invaluable throughout my college journey.” 

Amangul Hydyrova

Amangul Hydyrova is graduating from the College of Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience, a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, and a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies.  

Amangul is a Wells Scholar and winner of the James E. Moffat Outstanding Economics Major Award of 2023. She is the founder and the president of the Women in Economics club. She has organized meetings with alumni, a coding and career workshop, and career trips to the Chicago Fed and St Louis Fed. Additionally, she served as a Director of Student Life at IU Student Government where she organized philanthropic events and led the procurement initiative for a professional photo booth that provides free services to the IU community. Furthermore, as a member of the Dean’s Advisory Board Global Student 7, Amangul helped in organizing the America’s Role in the World Conference and worked on an initiative for atrocities research. 

Acknowledgments

“I would like extend my gratitude to the Wells Scholars Program and Director Chritoph Irmcher for being my support system. Additionally, I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to the incredible professors who believed in me, inspired me, and supported me in every way they could on my journey!” 

Annetta Itnyre

Annetta Itnyre is graduating from the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs with a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental and Sustainability Studies with minors in Gender Studies, Communications, and Public Advocacy.  

Annetta has participated in Students for a New Green World, Women in Government, and Democrats at IU, among others. Annetta is proud of her active involvement in IU Student Government, Sustain IU, Education Abroad, the O’Neill Undergraduate Programs Office, Jubilee, the Independent Council of Women, and the All-Campus Choir. Annetta has also participated in field research on biodiversity in Costa Rica and has worked as a Sustainability Analyst for the Willowbank Wildlife Reserve in New Zealand. 

Acknowledgments

“I want to express my deepest appreciation to Dr. Jon Eldon, Dr. Brenda Weber, and Dr. Shazheen Attari for their unwavering support and guidance throughout my academic journey at IU. Their dynamic teaching styles and infectious enthusiasm for learning have instilled in me a lifelong passion for knowledge. Additionally, I extend a heartfelt thank you to Dr. Kurt Zemlicka, whose thought-provoking classes have challenged me to think critically and have inspired me to pursue a career in environmental communication. I am forever indebted to these remarkable professors for their unparalleled mentorship and wisdom. And finally, I would like to extend a special thanks to my parents, Ron and Alisa, my family, my friends, and my partner, Grace, for their constant support and love throughout my time at IU. Thank you to everyone who was a part of this remarkable journey.” 

Marsha Koda

Marsha Koda is graduating from the Kelley School of Business with a Bachelor of Science in Business in Marketing. 

Marsha is a Hudson and Holland Scholar. She is a highly engaged student leader and served as the 2023-2024 Student Body Vice President of the Indiana University Student Government. Throughout her academic career, she has held positions including Vice President of Outreach for Kelley Student Government, Vice President of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Class President of Mu Beta Lambda Business Fraternity, Inc., and Vice President of You See Me—a mental health organization for women of color on campus. 

Acknowledgments

“I express my heartfelt gratitude, beginning with a sincere thank you to God, the constant source of strength and guidance in my life. Special appreciation goes to my mother, Jamie Koda, whose unwavering encouragement has inspired me to become the best version of myself. My gratitude extends to my sister and the entire family for their continuous support. I am immensely thankful to the exceptional individuals Alison Miron, Paige Thomas, Maqubè Reese, and Jamie Gathing, who played pivotal roles during my undergraduate years, guided me through the award process, and provided invaluable support in both my personal and professional development. To my cherished family, friends, and Aaliyah Raji, thank you for the enduring love, support, and unwavering faith you’ve bestowed upon me. I am truly grateful and I love you all.” 

Mofe Koya

Mofe Koya is graduating from the Kelley School of Business with a Bachelor of Science in Business in Public Policy Analysis with a co-major in Law, Ethics, and Decision-Making. 

Mofe is a Herbert Presidential Scholar, Provost’s Scholar, and Hudson and Holland Scholar. Her leadership and involvement at Indiana University include several leadership roles in the Hutton Honors College, where she served as a two-time Director for the Hutton Honors Council, the largest honors student-led org on campus, the Chief Financial Officer for the Honors College Funding Board, and the Honors College Director of Student Accounts. Mofe’s other experiences include participating as a Research Assistant at the Center for Research on Race and Ethnicity, Peer Coach at Kelley Undergraduate Career Services, and a Member of the 102nd Board of Aeons. 

Acknowledgments

“I am so grateful to have had so many professors and faculty to look to for guidance, support, and encouragement during my years here at Indiana University. I would like to thank Dr. Clark Barwick, Dr. Lynn Cochran, Kori Renn, Dr. Lucy LePeau, and Professor Sylvester Makobi for each of their roles in my growth and development during these past four years. I would also like to thank my mom, dad, and sister for their continued support and encouragement, which has made me the person I am.” 

Kate Hevner Mueller served Indiana University from 1937 to 1969 as Dean of Women, Senior Counselor for Women, and Professor of Education. Dr. Mueller was a national pioneer for women professionals and developed the Master’s Program in College Student Personnel (Higher Education and Student Affairs) at Indiana University in the early 1950s. The Kate Hevner Mueller Senior Awards were established in 2013 to honor IU seniors who have proven leadership on campus both inside and outside of the classroom and who have improved the IU community through their presence.

This year, Indiana University selected 28 outstanding recipients for the Kate Hevner Mueller Outstanding Senior Award. In this article, we’re congratulating Ryan Macharia, Niamh Monk, Aramide Ogunmekan, Kayla Oxley, Isabella Pastore, Xavier Ramirez, and Kennedy Reardon for their ability to represent Dr. Mueller’s essential goals of the university: to promote intellect, develop personality, and inspire citizenship and leadership to all students.

Ryan Macharia

Ryan Macharia is graduating from the College of Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Arts with an interdepartmental major in Philosophy and Political Science and a minor in business.  

Ryan is a Provost’s Scholar, Hudson and Holland Scholar, and was recently elected for membership in the Gamma of Indiana chapter of Phi Beta Kappa. He is the Vice President of the Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity and the Community Outreach Chair for the Pre-Black Law Students Association.  Ryan is also involved as a member of the Black Student Union and the African Students’ Association. Previously, he served as a new member educator for the Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity.  

Acknowledgments

“I want to send a special thank you to my family, first and foremost, for not only raising me but also teaching me how to navigate the world. I also wish to thank Professor Aurelian Craiutu, Professor Judith Failer, Ms. Jeanne Myers, and Mr. Jordan Davis for their generosity, kindness, and willingness to assist me in my academic pursuits. Lastly, thank you to my wonderful girlfriend, Danielle Dixon, for her amazing, unconditional support.” 

Niamh Monk

Niamh Monk is graduating from the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Science with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science. 

Niamh received an athletic scholarship for rowing after being recruited from New Zealand. She has completed both regional and national competitions in the 1st Varsity 8 rowing boat for the IU women’s rowing team. She has also participated in Global Hoosiers, a group for international athletes at IU, working alongside other diversity, equity, and inclusion groups for the Student Athletic Advisory Committee. 

Acknowledgments

“I want to express my gratitude to Steve Peterson, IU Women’s Rowing head coach, for extending the opportunity to attend IU and compete on the Women’s Rowing team, as well as my family for supporting me throughout this experience. Thank you to Lisa Winters and JT Post for their unwavering support over the past four years. Above all, I would like to thank my IU rowing teammates; this experience would be incomplete without them.” 

Aramide Ogunmekan

Aramide Ogunmekan is graduating from the Kelley School of Business with a Bachelor of Science in Business in Accounting with a co-major in International Business and a minor in Music. 

Aramide is a William R. Fry Scholar and President of Mu Beta Lambda Business Fraternity, Inc., the first minority-based professional fraternity in the nation. Aramide has been heavily involved in music-based extracurriculars on campus and is in her third year as a vocalist in the IU Soul Revue, a band dedicated to preserving and performing black popular music. Aramide is also a vocalist in Yours Truly, a student-led Bloomington band that performs funk, pop, and R&B music. 

Acknowledgments

“I truly appreciate all my mentors, advisors, friends, and family who’ve helped me throughout the last four years. I attribute all my accomplishments in my time at IU to my incredible support system.”

Kayla Oxley

Kayla Oxley is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Business in Marketing with a co-major in Business Analytics from the Kelley School of Business. 

Kayla is a Kelley Scholar and was the 2022 team winner of the Kelley Impact Competition. She currently serves as the Lead Teaching Assistant for BUS-K 304: Honors Technology and Business Analytics. Within this position she represented IU at the 2022 Microsoft Excel Collegiate Challenge, placing seventh in the world. She has also been involved with the Business Honors and Kelley Scholars programs, Marching Hundred, Big Red Basketball Band, All-Campus Band, and is the Vice President of Kelley’s Dean’s Insight Board. 

Acknowledgments

“I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to my family, friends, and faculty mentors, especially Anna Deeds, Sarah Sherry, and Shawna Meyer-Niederman, for their invaluable support. In addition, I am immensely grateful for the Kelley Scholars Program for believing in me and investing in my future.” 

Isabella Pastore

Bell Pastore is graduating from the School of Public Health with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health and a minor in Public Management.  

Bell is a Provost’s Scholar and received the Dean’s Medal of Commendation. Previously, she received a research grant through the Hutton Honors College to study the relationship between sex education curriculum and state legislation. Bell has held several leadership positions in IU Student Government, serving as the Student Body Vice President (2022-2023) and the First-Year Internship director (2021-2022). Within her current internship, she has researched sexual violence prevention programs and bystander intervention education. She is also the captain and co-founder of a new Little 500 Women’s team, Alpha Fasta Bika. 

Acknowledgments

“Thank you to my parents and friends for helping me pursue a college education, pushing me to do my best, and always believing in me over the past four years. I would also like to thank countless University staff and faculty who supported me throughout my time at IU.” 

Xavier Ramirez

Xavier Ramirez is graduating from the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs with a Bachelor of Science in Public Affairs in Law and Public Policy and Human Resource Management.  

Xavier is a Herbert Presidential Scholar, Hudson and Holland Scholar, Civic Leaders Scholar, and Provost’s Scholar. He has participated in two study abroad programs through the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs. During his sophomore year, he participated in a 3-week summer study abroad program in Greece with the Civic Leader Learning Center, exploring the origins of classical democracy firsthand. During the second semester of his junior year, Xavier spent a semester in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, at Erasmus University Honors College. He took classes regarding human rights, environmental and narrative law, the philosophy of media, and literature and politics. 

Acknowledgments

“Thank you so much to my amazing friends, who always inspire me to strive for greater heights, to see the goodness in the world, and to love those around me. A special thank you to my mom and dad, who are not only the best parents in the world but also my greatest advocates and the reason for who I am today!” 

Kennedy Reardon

Kennedy Reardon graduated in December 2023 from the Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies with a Bachelor of Arts in International Law, from the O’Neill School of Environmental Affairs with a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental and Sustainability Studies, and completed minors in Spanish and Criminal Justice. 

Kennedy is a Dean’s Scholar and the recipient of an IU Athletics scholarship. She is a member and two-season captain of the Indiana University Field Hockey team. She has also served as a Community Impact leader within the Athletics department, where she helped develop relations between Bloomington and the athletics community. Kennedy also participated in Coach for College as a teacher and coach for children in Vietnam. 

Acknowledgments

“I cannot thank IU Athletics enough for their ardent support of athletes not just as players, but as students and young professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge; specifically my coaches, Kayla Bashore and Dani Castro, Ali Crouch, and Lisa Winters, for pushing me past my comfort zone when I was a freshman and continuing to provide me with mentorship. Secondly, thank you to my professors who made my education at IU special and have encouraged me to do my best work, as well as those who have become mentors for me—Professor Lame, Professor Eskew, and Professor Popp.”

Kate Hevner Mueller served Indiana University from 1937 to 1969 as Dean of Women, Senior Counselor for Women, and Professor of Education. Dr. Mueller was a national pioneer for women professionals and developed the Master’s Program in College Student Personnel (Higher Education and Student Affairs) at Indiana University in the early 1950s. The Kate Hevner Mueller Senior Awards were established in 2013 to honor IU seniors who have proven leadership on campus both inside and outside of the classroom and who have improved the IU community through their presence.

This year, Indiana University selected 28 outstanding recipients for the Kate Hevner Mueller Outstanding Senior Award. In this article, we’re congratulating Tarj Richards, Rose Schnabel, Zoe Swanson, Madeline Tagua-Horne, Maddie Tyler, Imari Walker, and Jassen Yep for their ability to represent Dr. Mueller’s essential goals of the university: to promote intellect, develop personality, and inspire citizenship and leadership to all students.

Tarj Richards

Tarj Richards is graduating from the Kelley School of Business with a Bachelor of Science in Business in Accounting and Finance and is actively working toward his MBA through the 3/2 MBA program. 

Tarj previously won the Kelley Deloitte Database Competition with his three teammates. He is the president of the Caribbean Cultural Organization and has achieved a 200% membership increase and a 300+ follower boost on Instagram during his term. As Vice President of Finance for Balance at Kelley, he earned a Mental Health First Aid certification, allowing him to advocate for over 10,000 students. He worked as a Team Leader at Rec Sports and served on the Student Personnel Advisory Council. Tarj has also served as a Peer Tutor, a Delegate of Kelley Student Government, and a Student Involvement Ambassador. He recently embarked on a 7-week field study in Jakarta, Indonesia. 

Acknowledgments

“I am immensely grateful to the dedicated professors, supportive peers, and the vibrant Indiana University community for playing pivotal roles in my academic and professional journey. Your unwavering encouragement and guidance have been instrumental in shaping my success and accomplishments during my time at IU. Thank you for being an integral part of my transformative experience.”

Rose Schnabel

Rose Schnabel is graduating from the College of Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and Bachelor of Science in Biology with an individualized minor in Science Writing. 

Rose is a Wells Scholar, Founders Scholar, and recipient of the Provost’s Award for Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity in the Humanities. She has been involved in on-campus research in carbohydrate chemistry since her freshman year, presenting original research at regional and international conferences, with mentorship from Nikki Pohl and Lalitha Gummidi. Rose has also participated in the IU Journal of Undergraduate Research, where she led the Online Creative Content Board. 

Acknowledgments

“I would like to thank the Wells Scholars Program for its continued support that allowed me to pursue an education here at IU. I also owe a huge thanks to my mentors and advisors who supported me during my Spanish honors thesis (Olimpia Rosenthal, Melissa Dinverno, Israel Herrera-Cárdenas) and chemistry research (Nikki Pohl, Lalitha Gummidi, Prashant Kumar).” 

Zoe Swanson

Zoe Swanson is graduating from the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science and a minor in Spanish. She is in the Accelerated Master’s Program, working towards an MPA-MSES degree. 

Zoe is a recipient of the Izaak Walton League Scholarship and the Chris R. and Jerilyn W. Lowery Scholarship and is a member of the Hutton Honors College. She is the IU Administration Advisor for the IUSG Environmental Affairs Committee. She has also been involved in Women in Conservation and the O’Neill Environmental Professional Students Association. Zoe completed her O’Neill Honors thesis on mangrove restoration techniques and currently serves as a volunteer in the coral facility of the van Kessel lab. She has also participated in the Sustainability Scholars Program, was a member of the Civic Leaders Center, and is a graduate assistant for the O’Neill Honors Program. 

Acknowledgments

“I would like to thank my family and friends, as well as John Karaagac, Rick Mulcahy, Victoria Lydick, Allison Schnable, and Becky Rosen for their continuous support. I want to give a special thanks to Chip Glaholt for mentoring me during my time at IU and for helping me grow as a student and person.” 

Madeline Tagua-Horne

Madeline Tagua-Horne is graduating from the O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs with a Bachelor of Science in Arts Management and minors in Law and Public Policy, Theatre, and Spanish. 

Madeline is a Hudson and Holland Scholar. She has served as the Co-Director of the IU Funding Board for the past two years, presenting to the Board of Trustees and creating the most recent report for the Committee for Fee Review. Madeline serves as a stage manager for the Department of Theatre & Drama, where she has actively continued her love for the arts. Madeline will continue her education this fall at the IU McKinney School of Law in Indianapolis, where she plans to study entertainment & sports law to represent minorities in the entertainment field. 

Acknowledgments

“I want to say thank you to my parents, grandparents, uncle, and sister for their endless support throughout my undergraduate career. I would also like to thank Professor Paul Helmke, Professor Frank Lewis, Trish Hausmann, and Dedric Dennist for helping me shape my undergraduate career into what it has been and propelling me forward.” 

Maddie Tyler

Maddie Tyler is graduating from the Jacobs School of Music with a Bachelor of Science in Ballet with an outside field in Arts Management. 

Maddie is a Premier Young Artist Scholar. She has served as the president of the Bloomington Ballet Ensemble, a student organization committed to sharing ballet with Bloomington and the IU community. She works with a team to manage the IU Jacobs Ballet social media and has been a Jacobs Academy Ballet Instructor for two years, working with dancers between four and twelve years old. 

Acknowledgments

“I would like to thank Dr. Ursula Kuhar for nominating me for this award, and for supporting me throughout my four years at IU. I would also like to thank the ballet department faculty and my family and friends, who have encouraged me, motivated me, and helped me grow.” 

Imari Walker

Imari Walker is graduating from the Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies with a Bachelor of Arts in International Law and Institutions, the College of Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics, and is receiving a minor in African Languages (Swahili) and a certificate in Global French. 

Imari is a Hudson and Holland Scholar, Provost’s Scholar, Herbert Presidential Scholar, and Center for Leadership Development Scholar. Imari has served as the parliamentarian, vice president, president, and treasurer of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Tau Chapter. She has also written IU Cinema blog posts, organized event information, and compiled historical information for Themester. Recently, she became a member of IU Funding Board as a member of the DEI Committee. Imari has worked for the OVPDEI Overseas Studies and Scholarship program for 3 years as a program assistant, helping with advising and various study abroad events. 

Acknowledgments

“I wouldn’t be here without the mentorship and guidance of my supervisors and professors who have pushed me to always do my best and put myself out there!”

Jassen Yep

Jassen Yep is graduating from the College of Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, and a minor in Mathematics and Chinese. 

Jassen is a Dean’s Scholar and a Big Ten Conference Champion in the 200-meter breaststroke. He is a member of IU’s swim and dive programs, which have won three team Big Ten titles and four top 10 NCAA finishes in his time. Jassen has also participated in various capacities in the IU Journal of Undergraduate Research, Students for a New Green World, and Food Not Bombs. 

Acknowledgments

“I want to thank my amazing teachers, who helped me develop a passion for learning, and my coaches, who always pushed me to be a better athlete and a better person.”