Herman B Wells was a leader of uncommon vision and generosity. As the architect of IU’s rise to greatness, his legacy continues to permeate every corner of the university. Created in 1961 by the Indiana Memorial Union Board of Directors, the esteemed Herman B Wells Distinguished Senior Award honors outstanding seniors that have excelled academically and are established leaders within the IU community.

This year, we are proud to honor Jordan Davis with the 2022 Herman B Wells Award for her academic excellence, established leadership, and ability exemplify the spirit of Herman Wells during her journey at IU.

Jordan’s Academic Accomplishments

Jordan is a William R. Fry Scholar at the Kelley School of Business graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Marketing, co-majoring in International Business, and minoring in Spanish. She has excelled in her studies with a 3.96 GPA while taking difficult coursework through the highly selective Kelley Honors program and Hutton Honors College. During the Fall 2021 semester, she expanded her global knowledge by studying abroad in Seville, Spain. She dove headfirst into Spanish culture by only speaking Spanish for four months, living with a host family, joining organizations at the University of Sevilla, while gaining the Certificate of Linguistics and Language Fluency Exchange, and taking advantage of every single moment. In her eyes, interacting with the world in this way is crucial to remember how small we are yet how big of a part we play in making the world a more connected place.

During her time at IU, Jordan has received numerous honors and awards, including the 2022 MLK Building Bridges Award (awarded to those that exemplify Dr. King’s advocacy for equality, diversity, inclusion, and respect), as well as the 2021 Kelley Coin. She has also been recognized as one of Poets & Quants’ Top 100 Best & Brightest Business Majors for 2022. Jordan is also a Kelley Honors student, a Hutton Honors Scholar, a Hudson and Holland Scholar, a Provost’s Founders Scholar, amongst other academic recognitions.

Jordan’s Student Involvement

Jordan’s campus involvement runs deep within the Kelley School of Business as well as the rest of the IU campus. As Director of Health and Wellbeing for IU Student Government, her biggest accomplishment was working with IU Facilities to implement sanitary products in all-gender restrooms to promote equality for transgender students at IU. As Vice President of Outreach for Kelley Student Government, her biggest accomplishments include: constructing the first Black Student Action Committee, creating historic legislation mandating diversity representation for student organization panel attendees at the alumnus level, and initiating a school-wide campaign called “I Am, I Am Not” to dispel identity stereotypes and promote inclusion. As Director of Human Resources for Women in Business, she managed the recruitment process by implementing more inclusive admissions methods, such as including allyship-centered questions and blind application reading. As an IU Orientation Leader, she was able to spread joy and optimism to thousands of incoming families through formal presentations and information sessions, along with informal chats and late-night dance sessions. She also sits on various search committees, advisory committees to campus leadership, and is committed to mentoring younger students who come after her. Jordan also co-hosts a podcast centered on Black women reclaiming their voice and owning their space. Considering she hopes to become a globally known talk show host one day, hosting her podcast and seeing her work reach a worldwide audience is definitely one of her proudest accomplishments.

After Graduation

Jordan will be moving to Chicago to work at Bain & Company as an Associate Consultant. She is so blessed to have these opportunities and is committed to knocking down barriers for others who look like her to have a seat and voice at the table as well.

Acknowledgment

When reflecting back on who has made an impact in her time at IU, Jordan said:

Above all else, my biggest thank you and shoutout goes to my loving and powerful God for showing me every single day that all things are possible through Him. I also want to thank every single person that makes up my incredible village: my family (blood and chosen), my best friends, the Fry Scholars program, my Kelley family, and everyone in between that has supported me, cheered me on, and inspired me to shoot beyond the moon.”

The Susan Butler Award was created in memory of Susan Butler, the mother of Margaret Butler Snow, a supporter of Indiana University during the Great Depression. This $2,500 award is given to a female graduating senior for outstanding scholarship and character.

For 2022, we are proud to recognize Amna Ahmed as the 2022 Susan Butler Award recipient for her impactful leadership and involvement at IU.

Amna’s Accomplishments

Amna will graduate from the College of Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies, Political Science, and Economics, with an individualized minor in Urdu. 

During her time at IU, Amna’s campus involvement has been multifaceted. Amna is a member of the 100th Board of Aeons, a 12-member student research and advisory organization that works closely with the president of Indiana University, offering thoughtful and informed student perspectives on campus issues. She also served as President for the Office of the Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education Student Advisory Board (OVPUE) during her junior year and conducted research on diversity in IU U.S. General Education courses, student-led courses, and counteractive IU policies. In addition, she served as a member of the Global Student 7 Advisory Board to the Dean of the Hamilton Lugar School, where she helped create relevant courses focusing on Black Lives Matter as global movement and Black internationalism. Amna continued her community involvement work as an Engagement Lead for 180 Degrees Consulting, a non-profit student consulting group on campus. She led a team of fellow consultants working with and provided services for an after-school minority children’s program, a women’s shelter, and an LGBTQ+ center.  In her first two years at IU, Amna worked as the Executive Director of Student Life and Executive Director for Academic Affairs through IU Student Government. She helped eliminate the $8.60 Drop/Add scheduling fee, participated in the restructuring of the One.IU mobile app, and held the first IUSG multicultural fashion show.

While Amna’s campus involvement is outstanding, she has also excelled in the classroom. She is a Wells Scholar and a member of the Phi Beta Kappa Honors Society. Amna has had the opportunity to work as a research assistant under Professor Sarah Bauerle-Danzman and Professor William Winecoff on international political economy-focused projects.

Acknowledgments

When reflecting back on who has made an impact in her time at IU, Amna said:

I would first like to thank my family for their endless support and for always encouraging me to find my own path. Thank you to Professor Christoph Irmscher and the Wells Scholars Program for making IU home and surrounding me with a vibrant community of thinkers and doers. Finally, I would like to thank Professor Sarah Bauerle-Danzman, Professor Nicole Kousaleos, and Professor William Winecoff for transforming the way I see the world; that is the greatest gift I could have asked for in a liberal arts education.”

The Clara Javan Goodbody Award was created in memory of Clara Javan Goodbody, the mother of Louise Ann Goodbody, the Dean of Women from 1906 to 1911. This $2,500 award is given to a graduating senior for use in pursuing graduate study. 

For 2022, we are proud to recognize Kali Konstantinopoulos as the 2022 Clara Javan Goodbody Award recipient for her impactful leadership and involvement at IU.

Kali’s Accomplishments

Kali is earning a Bachelor of Science in Intelligent Systems Engineering from the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering and a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics with a minor in Chemistry from the College of Arts and Sciences. Kali has been involved in significant research initiatives during her time at IU. On-campus Kali worked with Dr. Paul Macklin in the Luddy School to develop computational simulations of tumor development to study breast and colorectal cancer. Kali’s work in analyzing how low oxygen levels impact breast cancer contributed to an article published in the journal iScience titled “A persistent invasive phenotype in post-hypoxic tumor cells is revealed by fate mapping and computational modeling,” on which she is a co-author. In Winter 2021, Kali developed an online COVID-19 pandemic simulator to showcase the math behind pandemic predictions. In Summer 2021, she participated in a research internship at Harvard Medical School, working on software for simulating biological cell interactions and mechanics. 

On campus, Kali has been a member of the Board of Aeons for three years, serving as Vice President from 2020 to 2021 academic year and as President from 2021 to 2022. During her time on the Board, she worked on three institutional research projects informing policy recommendations for IU Bloomington and collaborated with administrators and students across campus. Kali is also heavily involved in the Center of Excellence for Women & Technology as the Lead Outreach Intern, encouraging IU students to gain technical skills and promote gender equity in the workplace. Additionally, she is an undergraduate instructor for organic chemistry and machine learning courses at IU, has been involved in the IU Journal of Undergraduate Research, and is a member of the Biomedical Engineering Society at IU. Off-campus, Kali is a volunteer for IU Health in the new Regional Academic Health Center. 

Acknowledgments

Kali was humbled and honored to receive this award.  When asked to share some personal reflections and acknowledgments to those in the community that supported her during her time at IU she said:

I would like to thank my research mentor, Dr. Paul Macklin, for encouraging my dual interests in medicine and computational biology. I would also like to thank Dr. Christoph Irmscher for all of his support in the Wells Scholars Program and Dr. Kelly Kish for helping me develop as a campus leader. Finally, I am immensely thankful to my family for always supporting my academic, professional, and personal goals.”

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 the 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 2022, we would like to honor Kate Adaniya, Eduardo Duro, Catherine Qing, Hana Shafique, Mary Slaughter, and Amberly Xie with the Elvis J. Stahr Award to honor all of their achievements on the IU Bloomington campus and service efforts within the Hoosier Community.

Award Winners:

Kate Adaniya
Eduardo Duro
Catherine Qing
Hana Shafique
Mary Slaughter
Amberly Xie

Kate Adaniya

Kate is graduating from the College of Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Sciences in Human Biology with a concentration in Human Health and Disease.

Academic Accomplishments

Kate’s outstanding academic accomplishments include being selected as a Cox Research Scholar as well as a Hudson and Holland Scholar. She has also been inducted into Phi Beta Kappa, a distinguished and exclusive academic society that honors the best and brightest liberal arts students. Since her freshman year, Kate has diligently worked in The Demas Lab, where she studies the effect of the microbiome on animal personality. During her time there, Kate has published twice, presented at two conferences, and ran an independent project that resulted in a first-author publication entitled “The ontogeny of personality: Repeatability of social and escape behaviors across developmental stages in Siberian hamsters.”

Campus and Community Involvement

For the past three years, Kate has found a love for teaching and mentoring other students through working as an undergraduate teaching assistant for Molecular Biology. Currently, she is a mentor ambassador for Mentor Collective, where she strives to be a support system for other students entering college. Kate is a member of the Board of Aeons, a 12-member student research and advisory organization that focuses on pertinent issues on Indiana University’s campus and presents the research and solutions to President Whitten. Outside of campus, Kate has developed a passion for providing healthcare in underserved communities through her volunteer work at the Heart and Soul Free Clinic, a medical clinic in Westfield, Indiana that provides free healthcare to uninsured and underinsured individuals. Next year, she will be attending Indiana University’s School of Medicine in Indianapolis.

Acknowledgments

In reflecting on the individuals and resources that have helped in shaping her journey at IU, she said:

I would like to thank Dr. Gregory Demas, Dr. Sapna Mehta, and Dr. Sidney Shaw for their constant encouragement of my academic and personal growth. To my family and friends, thank you for bringing so much positivity and laughter into my life. To IU and the Cox Research Scholars Program, thank you for providing the space to grow, seek out new opportunities, and make long-lasting friendships.”

Eduardo Duro

Eduardo is graduating from the College of Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Sciences in Biology, a Bachelor of Arts in Portuguese, and a Certificate in Animal Behavior (with honors notation), with minors in molecular life sciences and chemistry, as well as Hutton Honors Notation.

Academic Accomplishments

Eduardo’s outstanding academic accomplishments include his research in developmental biology, as demonstrated in his honors thesis research on butterfly wing development and the role of calcium signaling. On top of his academic achievements, Eduardo serves as a peer mentor for the Faculty and Staff for Student Excellence (FASE) program, wherein he helps students make a successful academic and social transition from their home environments to college. Eduardo takes pride in his leadership role as a teaching assistant for courses in Biology and Portuguese. He has received numerous academic awards during his time at IU, such as the 2021 Goldwater Scholarship, a 2021 Foreign Language and Area Studies (FLAS) Fellowship Award, the 2020 IU Undergraduate Research Advanced Research Scholarship, the 2020 IU Bicentennial Public Science Symposium Winner, and was a runner-up for the Connect Challenge, among other recognitions.

Campus and Community Involvement

As president of the Brazilian Students Association, Eduardo stays in touch with Brazilian cultural representation at IU. As a member of Grupo de Teatro VIDA, Eduardo participates in theatrical performances to apply theory to practice and provide engaging language learning opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. Eduardo also gives back to the community through his participation in the Building Bridges program, which provides guidance in language learning and acquisition to children in the greater Bloomington area. He was also involved as an on-site coordinator for the 2021 LeaderShape Program, where he worked to adapt the program to accommodate COVID-19 precautions. His outstanding work in the community granted him the 2020 Outstanding Undergraduate Community Engagement Award.

Acknowledgments

Eduardo’s gratitude goes out to the faculty, mentors, coworkers, and friends who have stood by his side and supported him through his achievements. When asked to acknowledge those who have impacted him during his time here at IU, he said:

I would like to thank my IU mentors who have helped me develop and grow every day: Dr. Lydia Borjon, for her extensive support in my Biology honors thesis; Dr. Dan Tracey, for welcoming me into the Tracey lab and supporting my research; Dr. Luciana Namorato, for her help with my Portuguese honors thesis, and for being a great Portuguese instructor; Dr. Rhi Johnson and Dr. Sapna Mehta, for their support in my academic growth; and Lillian Casillas and Nicky Belle, for their support in my community engagements. These individuals – as well as several other faculty, mentors, coworkers, family and friends – are the reason I am here today, and this great community has surrounded me, believed in me, encouraged me, and supported me during every step of my time here at Indiana University.”

Catherine Qing

Catherine will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the College of Arts and Sciences, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Informatics from the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering. Additionally, she will be receiving a Certificate in Clinical Psychological Science.

Academic Accomplishments

Catherine has interned for Middle Way House, a non-profit organization in Bloomington, Indiana that provides shelter and support for survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking. She has also worked with the IU School of Nursing on the Aldrich Project, where she taught a social-emotional learning curriculum to middle school students in rural Indiana as a part of substance abuse prevention efforts. Catherine has also done research in both Dr. Amanda Diekman’s and Dr. Kurt Hugenberg’s psychology labs, where she has contributed to research on social roles, stereotypes, and prejudice. She is currently completing her honors thesis on the social pain perceptions of low-socioeconomic status individuals and their consequences in education.

Campus and Community Involvement

During her time at IU, Catherine has served as the president of Culture of Care, a student organization that does advocacy work in the areas of mental health, sexual wellbeing, drug and alcohol awareness, and respect. In that role, she also served on the United Council for Equity (led by the Office of Vice Provost for Diversity & Inclusion), the Coalition for Substance Use (led by Substance Use Intervention Services), and the Student Health and Wellness Council (led by the Office of the Provost & Executive Vice President). Through Culture of Care, she has aimed to foster a more caring environment in which Hoosiers look out for each other and have the resources needed to cultivate enjoyable and safe experiences at IU. In addition to Culture of Care, Catherine worked as an English tutor in the Asian Culture Center and served on the committee that created and established the first Asian/Pacific American Thematic Community located in Teter Residence Hall. She was also the co-president of HHart, a student organization under the Hudson and Holland Scholars Program and the Hutton Honors College that seeks to make artistic spaces at IU more inclusive and provide a platform for underrepresented artists.

Acknowledgments

Catherine is incredibly grateful for her time as a Hoosier. When asked who she would specifically like to extend her gratitude for supporting her college journey, Catherine said:

I would like to thank my family and friends for their support and love. To Sam Hammett and the entire Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Victim Advocacy, thank you for not only supporting me as a leader, but also for teaching me infinitely many new things. To Dr. Mimi Attenoukon of the Hudson and Holland Scholars Program, thank you for bringing so much joy and kindness into my life. Finally, I want to thank Dr. Timothy Patrick and Dr. Kurt Hugenberg for helping me grow as a researcher and educator, and for allowing me to further explore the world of psychology.”

Hana Shafique

Hana is graduating from the College of Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree in Scientific Communication – a major that she created with the Individualized Major Program. 

Academic Accomplishments

Hana takes immense pride in being selected as a Herman B Wells Scholar, a Hudson and Holland Scholar, and a Science, Technology, and Research Scholar (STARS). She has also recently been inducted into Phi Beta Kappa, a national academic honor society honoring liberal arts students. Hana participated in a Wells Scholars seminar course about activism, communication, and Belizean culture taught by Dr. Pyburn, where she had the opportunity to travel to Belize with a cohort of Wells Scholars for a service-learning project at the Tumul K’in Center of Learning.

Hana was accepted into the Pre-Medical Program at St. Anne’s College at the University of Oxford, where she took coursework in subjects such as medical ethics, metabolic regulation, and endocrinology. Hana’s interest in medical education led her to serve as the US ambassador for SmashMedicine, a renowned online medical education platform which seeks to improve its learners’ lives through inclusive and impactful educational experiences. Hana was involved in research at the Mackie Lab at the Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, where she helped examine the role and function of the endocannabinoid system using a variety of techniques. Her academic excellence molded her to become an undergraduate teaching assistant for biochemistry, organic chemistry, and molecular biology courses. 

Campus and Community Involvement

On campus, Hana served as Co-Director of the Wells Activism and Volunteer Effort (WAVE). She has also been involved in TEDxIndianaUniversity, the Indiana University Journal of Undergraduate Research (IUJUR), as well as the Office of the Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education Student Advisory Board (OVPUE SAB), where she interacted with innovative and bright students at Indiana University to research initiatives put forth by Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education. During her senior year at IU, Hana served on the Board of Aeons, a student advisory team that works with the Office of the President to propose informed recommendations on important campus issues. Hana looks forward to presenting her findings later this spring through a written report and presentation to President Pamela Whitten. 

Acknowledgments

When acknowledging those who have impacted her time here at IU, Hana said:

I’d like to thank Professor Christoph Irmscher, Professor Anne Pyburn, and Professor Cathrine Reck because they have been influential in helping shape my academic and professional endeavors. I am eternally appreciative to my family, Farah, Shoaib, and Adam, for their unconditional love and constant support. I also want to thank the Wells Scholars Program (WSP) as well as the Mackie Lab for providing me with a sense of community during my time at Indiana University.”

Mary Slaughter

Mary is graduating from the College of Arts and Sciences with a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology, a Bachelor of Arts in Hispanic Literature, and a minor in chemistry.

Academic Accomplishments

Mary’s outstanding academic accomplishments include being inducted into and serving as Co-Vice President of Sigma Delta Pi, the National Collegiate Hispanic Honors Society. In addition, she has been inducted into Phi Beta Kappa, the nation’s oldest academic honor society for students in the arts and sciences. She works as an undergraduate researcher for four research groups and mentors on-campus. During her freshman year, she was a member of the inaugural class of the Arts and Sciences Undergraduate Research Experience (ASURE) in Dr. Michael Manzella’s Genome Engineering lab. At the same time, Mary also worked through the Center of Excellence for Women & Technology’s Emerging Scholars Research Experience for Undergraduate Women (REUW) program. Mary received notoriety for her research project in the Newton Lab exploring Wolbachia in Caribbean island flies. For this work, she won the 2021 Executive Dean’s Award for Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity. Mary took an academic opportunity to study abroad in Ghana through the Hutton Honors College, where she explored the intersections of culture and health in Africa. During her time abroad, she participated in a research group focused on assessing the knowledge that local school teachers had regarding preventative measures against malaria and how this affected classroom instruction.

Campus and Community Involvement

Mary currently serves as the President of Hoosier Health Advocates, an organization dedicated to reducing health disparities both locally and abroad. As President, she has guided the 14-member executive team through the process of breaking from their partner, Timmy Global Health (TGH), to form an independent entity. Prior to the pandemic, Mary served as Vice President of Programming and later Historian for Phi Delta Epsilon, a co-ed medical fraternity on campus. In addition, she served as Director of Advocacy for Build at IU, a club dedicated to reducing poverty and illiteracy. Off-campus, Mary has volunteered with Beacon Inc., the Shalom Community Center, the Indiana Recovery Alliance, and Remote Area Medical. Mary has given back to the Bloomington community by engaging in service-learning through the Spanish Department, specifically at the Boys and Girls Club and local elementary schools.

Acknowledgments

Mary has said that her accomplishments at IU not have been possible without my mentors along with the support of my friends and family. She went into detail about the uniquely formative roles each of her IU mentors had on her time at IU and beyond:

I would like to thank my IU mentors for their continual support and mentorship: Dr. Mike Manzella, for opening up the research world to me; Dr. Irene Newton, for her investment into me as a scientist; Dr. Cate Reck, for her guidance and wisdom; Dr. Cecilia Obeng, for believing in me; and Dr. Israel Herrera, for his advocacy and outreach.”

Amberly Xie

Amberly is graduating from the College of Arts & Sciences with a Bachelor of Science in Physics and Chemistry.

Academic Accomplishments

While at IU, Amberly found many opportunities to research related to her interests in biology. On campus, she conducted research under Dr. Bogdan Dragnea studying the assembly of virus-like particles around various optical cargo. This research led to her first published paper in Bioconjugate Chemistry, a peer-reviewed scientific journal by the American Chemical Society, titled, “Hydrophobic Cargo Encapsulation into Virus Protein Cages by Self-assembly in an Aprotic Organic Solvent.”  She had additional research experiences as a Summer Undergraduate Research Fellow in the Barry Lab, a Student Researcher at Mayo Clinic, and at the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory Center for X-Ray Optics at the University of California Berkeley. She has also received numerous departmental awards and scholarships in physics and chemistry.

Campus and Community Involvement

Amberly’s co-curricular involvement has included leadership roles on the IU Swim Club and as a member of the IU Journal of Undergraduate Research. In the Bloomington community, she volunteered at the Bloomington Animal Shelter and Middle Way House. She has also quite literally made her mark in the Bloomington community as a muralist, where she planned, designed, and painted a mural for the Artisan Alley Mural project. 

Acknowledgments

When asked who she would like to thank for their support during her journey at IU, Amberly said:

Thank you to my friends and family for all of the support throughout university! And thank you to my mentors – whether through working under your guidance or taking one of your classes – for making university and research so enjoyable.”

The P. J. and Hilda W. Hill Award were established from a gift from P. J. Hill, a 1920 graduate of Indiana University. The $5000 award is presented to the outstanding senior on the IU Bloomington campus who has done the most to “better race relationships on the IU campus” during their undergraduate career.

For 2022, we would like to honor Kandace Rippy and Nichole Flowers with the P.J. and Hilda W. Hill Award for supporting and enhancing diversity and inclusion through their work at Indiana University.

Nichole Flowers
Kandace Rippy

Nichole Flowers

Nichole is a Hudson and Holland Scholar, a Groups Scholar, and a student athlete on the track and field team. She will be graduating from The School of Public Health with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science. 

Nichole takes pride in serving on the executive board of IU’s Student Athletic Advisory Committee. In this role, she supervises all of IU Athletic’s Diversity and Inclusion affinity groups, such as Hoosiers Out Loud, Women of Impact, Global Hoosiers, HER, and MOVE (Men of Valor Excelling). She also serves on the executive board of HER, a student-athlete group dedicated to to providing a safe place for women of color in IU athletics. As an executive board member of the IU Athletics’ Diversity and Inclusion Council, she focused her efforts on implementing and creating change within IU Athletics to make it more diverse and inclusive. Nichole has been awarded the IU NAACP Allyson Felix Award. which highlights a female student athlete’s contributions to the Black community at IU. Nichole’s impact through sports granted her the IU Athletic Spirit, Award which honors student athletes who demonstrate a strong desire and commitment to excellence in team leadership, community service, and personal development. 

Acknowledgments

Nichole wanted to recognize the many outstanding professors, coaches, and colleagues here at Indiana University that supported her and challenged her to reach new heights:

Thank you to my coaches for always holding me to high expectations. Thank you to Lisa and Sam for pushing me to get involved in the Excellence Academy. Thank you to my teammates and friends for supporting me and believing in me.”

Kandace Rippy

Kandace is a Groups Scholar, and has received both the Groups Scholars Program Peer Advisor of the Year Award and the 2021 Groups Scholars Program G’18 Student of the Year Award. She is earning a Bachelor of Arts in Management and Human Organization from the College of Arts and Sciences.

As a member of the Dean’s Council on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Kandace sought to assist in broadening and deepening IU’s commitment and its efforts on matters that impact diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice across campus. In this role, she has committed to engaging and strengthening the lines of communication between IU’s diversity and inclusion administration and IU faculty, staff, and students. Kandace’s involvement in the Black Student Union allowed her to explore new ways to unify Black students on campus. Kandace has also become a bright student leader through her work as a Peer Health and Wellness Educator for the IU Student Health Center, a Groups Peer Advisor, and an Ambassador for the Groups Scholars Program. Kandace used her voice impressively as a reporter for Black Voices on IDS News and served as the Director of Student Rights within the IU Student Government.

Acknowledgments

Kandace found her support system both in her family and in the IU community. She said:

I am eternally grateful to those who believed in me and believed that I was most qualified for this award. I want to thank you for allowing me to end this journey in celebration. I am very blessed!”

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 has selected 29 outstanding recipients for the Kate Hevner Mueller Outstanding Senior Award. In this article, we congratulate Iswerya Ajay, Erika Araujo, Brandon Barnes, Madeline Clemmer, Maiya Cook, Jacob Cooley, Madeline Dederichs, and Jayna Dolfi 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.

Award Winners:

Iswerya Ajay
Erika Araujo
Brandon Barnes
Madeline Clemmer
Maiya Cook
Jacob Cooley
Madeline Dederichs
Jayna Dolfi

Iswerya Ajay

Iswerya is earning a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the College of Arts & Sciences. On campus, Iswerya has been a residential assistant for the past two years at Union Street Center. Iswerya went through a rigorous process known as “gunning” to earn a spot on the Indiana University Student Foundation Steering Committee, while also being a founding member and Director of Content for People of IU. In this role, she was the sole writer and wrote over 100 stories of inspiring Hoosiers. She was awarded the Up-and-Coming Student Leader of the Year Award in 2021 for her contributions to the People of IU. Additionally, she has been on the Dean’s List, received the Kelley Moment Coin, and is an IU Ventures Scholar. 

Acknowledgments

When sharing her thoughts on the importance of a support system throughout her journey at Indiana University, Iswerya said:

IU has consistently exceeded my expectations and given me a better student experience than I could’ve ever imagined. The people I’ve met during my time here have been remarkable and I truly cannot express my gratitude to everyone I have had the honor to meet and learn from, because without each of you I would not have had the opportunities or grown into a leader I am today.”

Erika Araujo

Erika is a Hudson and Holland Scholar earning a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from the School of Public Health. Since her freshman year was involved with the IU Auditorium. Starting off as a volunteer usher, she was promoted to Student Manager after one year. One semester later, she was promoted to Assistant Guest Services Manager. Additionally, erika is an active member of Latinos Unidos and took on the role of President in Fall 2019. Erika is proud of making the School of Public Health Dean’s List in Fall 2020 and Spring 2021. Currently, she is interning at Middle Way House with their prevention team.

Acknowledgments

While reflecting on the people that have impacted her journey at IU most, Erika said:

I would like to thank Miriam “Mimi” Attenoukon, Erin Wylie, and Maria Talbert for nominating me and for writing my letters of recommendation. I see them as my mentors and motivators and appreciate their support. I would also like to thank my friends and family for being there for me and supporting me while I’ve been at school. I also want to thank my professors at the School of Public Health, the IU Auditorium, and La Casa/Latino Cultural Center for shaping my journey at IU and making Bloomington feel like my “home away from home.”

Brandon Barnes

Brandon is earning a Bachelor of Arts in International Law and Institutions and Political Science with minors in Informatics and Intelligence Studies from the Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies. During his time at IU, Brandon has been involved in IU Dance Marathon and has been actively involved with the IU Student Foundation, where he currently serves on the organization’s Steering Committee. As a student representative, Brandon has served as a Peer Coach with the Walter Center for Career Achievement and as a Student Ambassador for the Office of Admissions. Additionally, he has been a student in the Indiana Political Analysis Workshop within the Department of Political Science.

Acknowledgments

When asked to reflect on who he would like to thank for supporting him during his journey at Indiana University, Brandon said:

[I would like to thank] my family for their unconditional love and support; my professors, advisors, and supervisors for their constant inspiration and mentorship; and my friends for making IU a place I can genuinely call home. I would also like to express my gratitude to the staff of the IU Student Foundation and the Walter Center for Career Achievement – particularly Andrea Hardisty, Jenna Piva-Laramie, and Andrea White – for considering me for this award and for giving me a place and an environment in which I have been able to thrive during my time at IU.”

Madeleine Clemmer

Madeleine is earning a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the College of Arts & Sciences. During her time at IU, she worked to establish Youth for Environmental Sustainability, a club that strives to develop a more comprehensive local sustainability legislature. In the summer of 2019, her club’s first resolution passed through Bloomington’s city council with six major changes the city would work to implement – many of which have already become a reality. The city has introduced new water bottle-filling stations, safer bicycle routes to schools, and more climate goals. Madeleine has done research in Dr. Ken Mackie’s neuroscience laboratory, where she focused on projects that involved understanding changes in the adolescent mouse brain associated with chronic phytocannabinoid exposure. The process of learning about changes in the brain associated with drug use furthered her interest in medicine. Next year, Madeleine plans to attend medical school. 

Acknowledgments

Thinking back on the individuals that have supported her most throughout her time at IU, Madeleine said:

I would like to thank my mom and dad for their encouragement and guidance; my grandparents for their support; and Dr. Mackie and the Mackie Lab for allowing me to participate in research.”

Maiya Cook

Maiya is earning a Bachelor of Science in Economic Consulting and Law, Ethics, and Decision-Making from the Kelley School of Business. She is also a Kelley Honors Student and a William R Fry Scholar. Maiya has spent three years in Indiana University Student Government with focuses on expanding diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts and supporting leadership development. During her time with IUSG, she collaborated with the Dean of Student’s Office to form the United Council of Equity, which brings student leaders from marginalized backgrounds together to support one another and learn how to combat bias. She participated in the first IU Student Leader Delegation Trip to Israel, and has also participated in an International Rescue Committee volunteer trip to provide English literacy lessons to refugees. Additionally, Maiya led a trip to the Florida Keys to remove microplastics and other debris in Biscayne National Park through the Alternative Break Program. 

Currently, Maiya serves as Vice President of Outreach for Kelley Student Government, and continues to emphasize organization collaboration and DEI-based initiatives and events through her position. She is also proud to be one of the eleven Black Women of Fry who urged the Kelley School of Business to provide more support and resources towards diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Upon graduating from IU, she will be going to Chicago to work as a management consulting analyst at AArete Consulting. 

Acknowledgements

When Maiya was asked who all she wanted to thank for standing by and supported her through her achievements at IU, she said:

I would like to thank the entire Kelley Office of Diversity Initiatives for not only recruiting me, but for being my home base when my family has been so far away. I would also like to thank my mentors from IUSG – Matt Stein and Isabel Mishkin – for treating me as an equal and instilling me with the confidence to be the leader I am today. I would also like to thank my professors – [especially] Kathy Fisher, Jeanette Heidewald, and Stephanie Moore – for their patience and for seeing the potential in me before I could. Lastly, I would like to thank my wonderful friends, who have truly been my family these past four years and have inspired me to be my best self every step of the way.“

Jacob Cooley

Jacob is earning a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the Kelley School of Business. Throughout his time at Indiana University, Jacob made it a priority to join clubs and organizations that had a purpose or mission that was bigger than himself. Jacob joined the Indiana University Dance Marathon (IUDM) – which raises money for children at Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis, IN – serving on the Morale Committee. Jacob served as a tour guide for both Indiana University and the Kelley School of Business. Additionally, he is currently a Program Manager for the Investment Banking Workshop, where he mentors students interested in a job in finance/investment banking. During his four years at Indiana University, Jacob is proud to have been a student leader in both Fellowship of Christian Athletes and The Salt Company, a multi-generational and college student-focused ministry.

Acknowledgments

When considering the figures at IU and beyond that have influenced his college career most, Jacob said:

I would first and foremost like to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, as I would not be here today without Him. Additionally, I would like to thank my parents, Jason and Kimberly, my sister, Lauren, and my grandparents for shaping me into the person that I am today. Finally, I would like to thank Professor Amy Kinser, Professor Clark Barwick, Professor Susan Monaco, and Professor Steven Sibley for being my biggest supporters at every step of the way during my time at Indiana University.”

Madeline Dederichs

Madeline is earning a Bachelor of Science in Policy Analysis from the O’Neill School of Public & Environmental Affairs. Madeline began her campus involvement as soon as she stepped foot on-campus starting with IU Student Government, serving as the Director of Student Life, a member of Congress, and currently, the Student Body Vice President. Throughout her various terms, she worked closely with the IU Police Department and Public Safety and Institutional Assurance Office to clarify the use of the Clery Act when students received IU Notifications; and engaged with student workers and faculty to promote fairness and improved on-campus working conditions. In 2020, Madeline served as the President of the Student Recreational Sports Association, where she consulted with campus partners to negotiate an increase to the approximately $6 million annual revenue from the student activity fee to improve facilities and programming.

Acknowledgments

In talking about her time and her community impact at IU, Madeline said:

I’m incredibly grateful for the encouragement and support I have received over the years from the faculty and staff that I’ve engaged with in my leadership roles. With their recognition of my talents and skillsets, they’ve pushed me to hone in on my strengths and continue pursuing initiatives that benefited the greater campus community.”

Jayna Dolfi

Jayna is earning a Bachelor of Science in Supply Chain Management from the Kelley School of Business. During her time at IU, she developed an award-winning two-part training session that educated 105 student athletes on the Green Bandana Project, a mental health awareness and suicide prevention initiative. In 2019, Jayna became an executive board member for All IN, a mental health student group within athletics that strives to have an open conversation about mental health and raise awareness amongst athletes. In 2020, she was elected to the Student Athletic Advisory Committee as Mental Health Executive, where she oversaw 15 committee members through the planning of mental health-related events such as round table discussions, yoga sessions, and meditation events. Jayna has received the 2020 Excellence Academy Spirit award for her exemplary display of leadership that embodied the “Spirit of Indiana: 24 Sports, One Team” mentality, and has also been recognized as a 2019 Founder’s Scholar. 

Acknowledgments

In recognizing her personal and Student Athletics communities that have impacted her time at IU most, Jayna said:

First and foremost, I would like to thank my parents, Greg and Pollyanna Dolfi, for being my biggest cheerleaders and supporting me throughout my ups and downs. I would also like to thank Lisa Winters, Mattie White, and Sam Hortsman for always being there and for helping develop me into the leader I am today. Lastly, I want to thank Allen Kohn for always being a friendly ear to help me through anything life could throw at me.”

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 has selected 29 outstanding recipients for the Kate Hevner Mueller Outstanding Senior Award. In this article, we congratulate Peri Ehudin, Hannah Fry, Sadia Habib, Brandon Hamblin, Caliel Hines, Jeremy Kim, and Sarah Kurpius 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.

Award Winners:

Peri Ehudin
Hannah Fry
Sadia Habib
Brandon Hamblin
Caliel Hines
Jeremy Kim
Sarah Kurpius

Peri Ehudin

Peri is earning a Bachelor of Science in Human Development & Family Studies from the School of Public Health. She has been an active member in the Alpha Epsilon Phi sorority, serving as Vice President of Philanthropy in 2020. Peri was also passionately involved with the Indiana University Dance Marathon, acting as a 24-hour dancer for RHARC’s team during IUDM 2018. In 2019, she joined the Fundraising committee and danced for 36 hours. In 2020, she took on the role of Fundraising chair for the Fundraising Committee, and most recently, Peri served on the Executive Council for the IUDM 2021 year as the Director of Fundraising. As a scholar, Peri has made the School of Public Health Dean’s List twice – in Spring 2020 and in Spring 2021.

Acknowledgments

When asked to name the people at IU and in her personal network that have supported her Hoosier journey most, Peri said:

I want to thank my parents for always believing in my passions as much as I do and for being an incredible support system. I also want to thank a few professors who went above and beyond in guiding me inside and outside of the classroom, namely Professor Catherine Sherwood-Laughlin, Professor Angie Wong, and Professor Deborah Getz. The education and encouragement I have received from each of you will help me long after I graduate. I will be forever grateful to each of you for being your student, and you will each continue to inspire me.

Hannah Fry

Hannah is earning a Bachelor of Science in Nonprofit Management & Leadership from the O’Neill School of Public & Environmental Affairs. Hannah is a member of the O’Neill Honors Program. Hannah has been an active member of the Indiana University Student Alumni Association since Fall 2019, where she later served as a Student Fellow. For her academic merits, Hannah has been awarded the Bayh Family Scholarship, the Browning Scholarship, and the Jo Ann Linsmith Scholarship. Additionally, Hannah is proud to have been an intern for both the Indiana University Foundation through the 2020 Daniel C. Smith Internship Program, as well as the 2021 Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) Advancement.

Acknowledgments

Reflecting on her time at IU, there were numerous individuals whose support has guided Hannah throughout her academic journey:

I am beyond grateful for the Indiana University professors, staff, faculty, students, donors, and alumni that have impacted me over the years and have embedded within me a sense of pride and passion for my alma mater. Thanks to your guidance and support over the years, I feel confident in my abilities to go off into the world and ‘Lead for the Greater Good’ in everything I do!

Sadia Habib

Sadia is earning a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Business Analytics from the Kelley School of Business. She is a part of the Hutton Honors College, and was selected to participate in the Business Operations Consulting Workshop through the Kelley School of Business. Throughout campus, Sadia has served in leadership roles as part of the Indiana Memorial Union Board, most recently serving as the President of the Indiana Memorial Union Board. In this role, she focused on making the Indiana Memorial Union a welcoming and inclusive space. In one of her initiatives, she created a student gallery in partnership with the IDS and People of IU in the Georgian Room in the Indiana Memorial Union to celebrate everyday IU students in action. Sadia is also the Assistant Dean of Intake for Theta Nu Xi Multicultural Sorority Inc. She had the opportunity to serve as a Residential Assistant at Union Street Center for the past three years, where she coordinated programs for the Honors Thematic residential community. For these accomplishments and more, the Division of Student Affairs awarded Sadia with the 2021 McKaig Student Award for her leadership and devotion to the IU student body. 

Acknowledgments

When sharing her thoughts on the importance of a support system throughout her journey at Indiana University, Sadia said:

I would like to thank my mentors, advisors and professors, who pushed me to achieve more and enabled me to grow as a student leader. Moreover, I would like to thank my family and friends for believing in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself. I am where I am today because of all the overwhelming support I was fortunate enough to receive in the last four years.

Brandon Hamblin

Brandon is earning a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from the Kelley School of Business. Brandon swam for the IU Men’s Swim Team, where he was also a Big Ten Champion in 2019 and 2022. Brandon is involved in the Athletic Director’s Diversity Council, Big Ten Mental Health Cabinet, and Big Ten Equality Coalition. As part of his leadership in the Athletic Director’s Diversity Council, he helped make the equality athletic apparel that was used by IU athletes throughout the 2020-2021 seasons. Brandon also served as a Hoosier Hero mentor, where he mentored freshman student athletes to help with their transition as a collegiate athletes. In addition to his involvement with IU Athletics, Brandon spent time in the Bloomington community volunteering with the Boys and Girls Club and in the Reading Across America program.

Acknowledgments

In recognizing her personal and Student Athletics communities that have impacted her time at IU most, Brandon said:

I would like to thank my parents, Christine & Neil Hamblin, for supporting my decision to come to IU and for giving me the tools and resources needed to help me succeed. I would like to thank Coach Ray Looze for recruiting me and allowing me to be on the IU swim team. Lastly, I would like to thank Scott Dolson, Mattie White, and Lisa Winters for allowing me be so involved in the IU Athletic Department.

Caliel Hines

Caliel is earning a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience with minors in Chemistry and Psychology from the College of Arts & Sciences. During his time at IU, Caliel served in numerous roles committed to the improvement of the IU community. As a member of the Committee for Undergraduate Education, he helped review and approve over 50 policies and academic programs (degrees, majors, minors, and certificates) proposed by schools and departments in the College of Arts and Sciences. Caliel is also a proud member of the Kovener Teaching Fellowship Program, where he assisted a faculty member with the piloting and implementation of a more inclusive and equitable chemistry course (CHEM-C117: Principles of Chemistry & Biochemistry). Caliel served as Vice President of the Board of Eons, a student-research and advisory Board to the President of Indiana University, where he conducted research on campus-related issues which directly influenced more than 33,000 undergraduate students on the Bloomington campus. Moreover, Caliel served as an Undergraduate Research Assistant in the Lu Laboratory of the Gill Center for Biomolecular Sciences, where he frequently coordinated standard laboratory procedures for time-sensitive experiments and operated delicate scientific instruments. For this, he was recognized as a Fleischer Research Scholar and noted as a meaningful contributor to the published research of the lab.

Acknowledgments

When sharing his thoughts on the importance of a support system throughout his journey at Indiana University, Caliel said:

Without a doubt, if it were not for the support of my family, friends, and the faculty of IU, I would not have been able to accomplish a single thing. Thus, I give all Glory to God for what He has done and for the ways He has made.

Jeremy Kim

Jeremy is earning a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the Kelley School of Business. Jeremy served in many leadership positions at IU. He is currently President of the Indiana University Student Foundation (IUSF), an executive board member of Beta Sigma Psi, Student Body Treasurer for Indiana University Student Government, and a member of the Cabinet of Student Leaders. For his efforts as a campus leader, Jeremy has been honored with the IUSF Executive Award, as well as the Hingst Award, which is awarded to the Beta Sigma Psi chapter with the most outstanding scholastic program.

Acknowledgments

Jeremy is incredibly grateful to his family and friends for supporting him during his time at IU. Jeremy shared:

I have met the most amazing people; they have only encouraged me to become the leader I aspire to be. Thank you to my parents, Euna and Myeong; the 2022 IUSF Steering Committee; my fraternity brother and role model Lucas Ganyard; my vice president Ruhan Syed who entrusted me with the role of treasurer; and so many more. My time at IU would mean nothing without them and for that, I am truly grateful.

Sarah Kurpius

Sarah will earn a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies and Spanish with a minor in Communication and Public Advocacy from the College of Arts and Sciences, as well as a certificate in Latin American and Caribbean Studies (CLACS) from the College of Arts and Sciences. Sarah is currently writing a thesis for the International Studies Honors Track, which she will orally defend in April. She has completed the Hutton Honors Notation while maintaining a 4.0 cumulative GPA. Sarah is also a member of three collegiate honors societies: Phi Beta Kappa, the National Collegiate Arts and Sciences Honor Society; Sigma Delta Pi, the National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society; and Sigma Iota Rho, the Collegiate International Studies Honor Society. Taking her learning beyond the classroom, she has also studied abroad with the Missouri School of Journalism and completed a strategic communications internship in Monteverde, Costa Rica during the summer of 2021. Sarah has won several academic and research awards during her time at IU, including the 2020 Luis Dávila Best Undergraduate Student Essay in Latino Literature, Arts & Culture, the 2021 Sam Burgess Undergraduate Library Research Award, and the 2021 Distinguished Pol-IU-glot Scholar, award for knowledge of 3+ languages and an interest in multiculturalism. Lastly, in terms of on-campus involvement, she is currently serving on the 2022 IU Student Foundation Steering committee as a co-chair of the Little 500 Cycling Committee.

Acknowledgments

When reflecting on the individuals that she appreciates most for their continued support at IU, Sarah said:

I would like to thank all my friends and family members, but especially my parents, who have helped me through many stressful times and endured many late-night phone calls offering advice; and my grandparents, who have always been so excited about everything I’m doing and always show up when I need them. I would also like to thank the many faculty members and advisors who have believed in me along the way and pushed me to be my best.

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 has selected 29 outstanding recipients for the Kate Hevner Mueller Outstanding Senior Award. In this article, we congratulate Kylie Lewis, Xue “Snow” Li, Maren McClelland, Carrick Moon, Jessica Morris, Kaitlyn O’Connor, and James Romano 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.

Award Winners:

Kylie Lewis
Xue “Snow” Li
Maren McClelland
Carrick Moon
Jessica Morris
Kaitlyn O’Connor
James Romano

Kylie Lewis

Kylie will graduate with a Bachelor of Arts in Geography and Mathematics from the College of Arts and Sciences. 

Kylie served as a Resident Assistant in Forest Quadrangle for two years, helping first-year students acclimate to Indiana University. Since freshman year, she was also heavily involved in TEDxIndianaUniversity, where she served as a curator and as Director of Finance. Kylie was an involved member of the Political and Civic Engagement (PACE) department’s Student Leadership Council, which granted her opportunities to moderate IU-based and national public issue forums; prepare a presentation on restorative justice for a university conference; and grow her civic skills. She also interned for the Big Ten Voting Challenge and is currently working as the Engagement Intern for Sustain IU.

Acknowledgments

While looking back on her time at IU, Kylie wanted to recognize numerous individuals that have guided her:

I want to thank my family for being consistently supportive of any and everything I have wanted to do in college. Thank you for driving down from Indianapolis whenever I needed it, whether it be because I was sad and stressed or because my windshield wiper fluid needed changing; I am so grateful for your love and support. I also want to thank all the professional and academic mentors I’ve gained over these last four years – you all give me so much to aspire to!”

Xue “Snow” Li

Xue is earning a Bachelor of Science in Finance and Digital Technology Management from the Kelley School of Business. Xue has achieved considerable academic success through the Kelley Honors program and Hutton Honors College. She served as a research assistant and peer tutor for the Kelley School of Business. As a student coordinator at the Office of International Services, she committed to making international students feel at home by creating and/or leading extracurricular activities and programs that allowed international and domestic students to connect, including Conversation Partners, a language exchange program. Her efforts provided opportunities for international students to share and display their culture and allowed domestic students to learn from different global perspectives. 

Acknowledgments

Xue would like to recognize all of the support and opportunities that were given to her during her journey at IU by her family and friends, as well as her faculty and staff nominators:

[To my faculty and staff nominators] thank you for… all the support and opportunities you have given me during my journey at IU. I have grown academically and professionally with your guidance, and I am grateful to have worked with you. I would also like to say thank you to all my friends and family for their kindness, support, and companionship!”

Maren McClelland

Maren is earning a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from the Hamilton Lugar School of Global and International Studies. Maren had the opportunity to pursue many different research and leadership experiences while at IU. She co-authored a paper on online trolling through the Center of Excellence for Women & Technology’s Research Experience for Undergraduate Women program; assisted the Department of State in implementing artificial intelligence into their security systems; and evaluated open-data policies across the nation through the Ostrom Workshop. Maren also co-founded the Rotaract Club and served as president of the Student Alumni Association, where she served the Bloomington community and IU alumni from around the world.

Acknowledgments

When asked to share her gratitude for the award, Maren said:

At a place like IU, there are people changing the world around every corner. I’m extremely grateful and thankful for the professors, alumni, and community leaders who taught me how to become one of those people!”

Carrick Moon

Carrick is earning a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the College of Arts & Sciences. Carrick has interned for Authentic Campaigns, the Scott County Judge Executive’s Office, and the IU Office of the Provost. He is a Dean’s Scholar and the recipient of the 2021 Jeffrey Haynes Hillis Award, the 2021 Richard Bishop Award, and the 2021 Jim Fielding Award. He was also a finalist for the 2022 Carolyn Kelly Memorial Scholarship. 

During his senior year, Carrick served as an undergraduate research fellow for the Kovener Program, where he has worked alongside a cohort of students and faculty to interrogate pedagogical practices within the College. This spring, he is participating in the Jane Jorgensen Internship under Director Patrick Smith, where he is researching and crafting strategies to better serve marginalized students through mentorship at Indiana University. 

Carrick was the first transgender candidate for President of IU Student Government, where he served as a member of the Cabinet of Student Leaders. He has also been Treasurer of IU’s student-run fashion editorial, Season Magazine. Carrick has also volunteered with the Bloomington Boys and Girls Club, the LGBTQ+ mentorship program, and the College of Arts and Sciences Ambassadors program. He is most proud of his work as the founder and first president of the Queer Student Union at IU. He has led the development of a dynamic community of LGBTQ+ students committed to empowering each other in pursuit of a more inclusive campus. He looks forward to watching the organization reach new heights, guided by IU’s next generation of LGBTQ+ student leaders.

Acknowledgments

Carrick wanted to give thanks to the many figures that have influenced him throughout his time at IU:

First, to Mom, Dad, and Colin, thank you for all your love through success and stumbling. Thank you for teaching me to keep my eyes forward, my head up, and my heart on what I can do for others. Thank you to Sarah Kachmann for teaching me how to move with grace, and for believing in the best of who I am and who I can be. Special thanks to Bruce Smail, Jim Fielding, and Mara Bernstein for their unwavering support and encouragement. To all the friends who inspire me every day: it speaks to a remarkable privilege that the names of positive influences would overrun this page. If you read this and consider yourself so, you undoubtedly are.”

Jessica Morris

Jessica is earning a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish, International Studies, and Linguistics from the College of Arts & Sciences. Jessica is a Herman B Wells Scholar, Founders Scholar, Hutton Honors College member, and a member of  Sigma Delta Pi National Collegiate Hispanic Honor Society, which recognizes students for their academics, leadership, abroad experience, and community service in the study of Spanish. She is also the recipient of the Indiana Outstanding College Student of Spanish Award, presented to Indiana college students for their academic excellence in and passion for the Spanish language, culture, and literature. She is also working to complete a thesis on gender during Argentina’s Dirty War.

Jessica currently serves as the congressional secretary for IU Student Government (IUSG), where she helps enact policy initiatives with other members of the IUSG Executive Branch, including efforts to decrease policing on campus and establish gender-neutral restrooms in all IU buildings. She also held many leadership roles on the Independent Council, including her current leadership role as Co-President. In addition, she is involved with Hoosier Scholar Ambassadors (HSA), serving in multiple leadership roles over the past three years; at present, she is serving as the Director of External Relations for HSA.  

Acknowledgments

When asked to share a few acknowledgments for those who helped support her during her journey at IU, Jessica said:

I would first like to thank my mom, dad, and sister for all of their support and encouragement… I would also like to thank my incredible friends (especially Molly, Meghan, and Raul) for reminding me to relax and for loving me endlessly.”

Kaitlyn O’Connor

Kaitlyn is earning a Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management from the O’Neill School of Public & Environmental Affairs. Kaitlyn is a self-proclaimed advocate for women’s health, well-being, and safety. She served as the Vice President of Risk Management for the Panhellenic Association (PHA), where she implemented organization-wide risk, health, and safety-related policies and procedures for PHA’s 4,000 members. During her term, she and her team shifted the culture around sexual violence by mobilizing a powerful coalition of women to create higher standards for perpetrators of sexual violence. This initiative led to an invitation to speak at one of the largest Greek student leader conferences in the country, the Association of Fraternal Leader & Values Central in February 2022. 

Kaitlyn’s leadership expanded to judicial board procedures, resulting in an Innovation in Judicial Proceeding Award. She also supported the community’s transition back to in-person events and educated both fraternity and sorority members on risk management procedures in a new training. She hosted a first-ever Panhellenic Association National Hazing Prevention Week Campaign with an emphasis on why and how women haze. Kaitlyn has also served as the Panhellenic Director of Honor Board, and Alpha Delta Pi’s  Director of Social Enrichment. Kaitlyn’s has also acted as Chair of the IU Dance Marathon Fundraising Committee, for which she was nominated for the Ashley Louise Crouse Award, which recognizes strong character and leadership within IU Dance Marathon. 

Acknowledgments

There are many people Kaitlyn would like to thank who have supported her through her time as a leader at Indiana University:

I would like to thank my family and friends for always encouraging me to have a life full of continuous learning and for loving me wholeheartedly every step of the way. To my Panhellenic advisor, Leo Serrato, and Assistant Dean, Dr. Leslie Fasone: thank you for always offering sage advice and empowering me to continue with new initiatives, even when they seemed daunting. I also want to thank Professor Cheryl Hughes for being a fierce advocate, educator, and kind confidant when I needed it most. Lastly, a special thank you to the entire OSFL team, Dean of Students Office, Office of Sexual Violence Prevention and Victim Advocacy, Chief [Jill] Lees [of the IU Police Department], and the rockstar 2021-2022 Panhellenic Executive Team.”

James Romano

James will receive a Bachelor of Arts in International Law and Institutions and East Asian Language and Cultures from the College of Arts and Sciences, with minors in Spanish and History. He was a four-year recipient of the Founders Scholar Award, and has been involved at IU through his role as the founding president of the Chi Phi Fraternity Iota Delta Chapter. He was also the founding Vice President and Director of Outreach for the Alexander Hamilton Society Chapter at Indiana University. James has been the co-editor-in-chief of The Tab IU, a student news organization that promotes justice and provides a voice to the issues of the student community. He is currently the program assistant for the East Asian Studies Center, where he facilitates colloquium events with East Asia scholars. 

Acknowledgments

While reflecting on the people that have impacted his journey at IU most, James said:

I want to thank my parents, Anthony and Jennifer Romano, for serving as role models for community leadership and demonstrating the importance of justice, education, and civic participation. I want to thank Rabbi Sue Silberberg at IU Hillel; Paul Helmke, director of the Civic Leaders Center; and Heather Payne, Residence Life Coordinator at Union Street Center, for being exemplars of building inclusive communities on campus. I want to thank my Co-Editor-In-Chief Leighton Howard and The Tab IU team, my brothers in the Chi Phi fraternity, and the members of the Alexander Hamilton Society at IU.”