As one of the university’s most valued, cherished, and meaningful awards given each year, the Cords of Distinction honor recognizes those who have positively influenced on-campus communities, actively pursued EMU values, engaged in and valued social and community involvement, and reflected academic excellence and social accountability. Recipients of the award are nominated by faculty, staff, administrators, and students and are chosen by the Cords of Distinction selection committee.

“These students participate in high levels of engagement outside of classes and recognize the importance of the social and civic aspects of engaging in the local community,” said Celeste Thomas, director of Multicultural Student Services, CoachLink coach, and co-chair of the Cords of Distinction committee. “They embody ‘To whom much is given, much is required.’ They have chosen to make the community better than when they entered it, and we thank you all for that.”

The 10 recipients were presented with blue and gold cords to wear at Commencement, which will be held Sunday, May 3, 2026.

They are:

• Sophia Armato
• Irais Barrera Pinzon
• Leah Beachy
• Leah Frankenfield
• Genesis Figueroa
• Arelys Martinez Fabian
• Dibora Mekonnen
• Sarah Prroj
• Roumany Sefin
• Emily Suarez Nunez

Click each recipient’s name above to jump to their section.

Sophia Armato

A Spanish language & Hispanic studies and education (PreK-12) licensure major from Manheim, Pennsylvania, she was honored by Sydney Metz, head field hockey coach.

Armato embodies what it means to be a Royal, choosing excellence in the classroom, dedicating hours of service to others, and living out her faith by loving like Jesus, her coach said. She has also raised the standard of integrity within EMU’s athletic community, Metz said, recalling a conversation they shared about the culture they hoped to build for the field hockey program.

“Our program was in a fragile place, and even one wrong move could set us back further,” Metz said. “But in that conversation, we also talked about what it means to do the right thing, even when it’s difficult. … You showed a willingness to lean into this challenge, to start a standard, and to grow in every area of your college experience.”

Metz said that Armato has made the most of her EMU experience. “You could find ‘Soph’ coming to practice after a long day of student teaching, then leaving practice to help others understand a Spanish conversation,” she said. “She would end her evening working at home on projects for her small business, continuing her homework, only to wake up early to serve coffee at Common Grounds. And through it all, she was living out her faith daily.”

Irais Barrera Pinzon

A political science and Spanish language & Hispanic studies major from Richmond, Virginia, she was honored by Celeste Thomas, director of Multicultural Student Services.

The first time Thomas met Pinzon, she knew immediately the student would change the tapestry of EMU.

Pinzon, with her infectious smile, high energy, and “urgency to get down to business,” motivates those around her to “get on board and, not just say something, but do something,” Thomas said. “You exude kindness toward everyone and have a genuine concern for the well-being of others. You are always seeking ways to make the world a better place, and when you set out to do something, you do not stop until you reach the goal.”

That was especially evident in the menstrual hygiene project she led, securing a $1,200 grant and installing 10 dispensers across campus, Thomas said. Pinzon also served on the board of the Latinx Student Alliance (LSA), fed the unhoused, and participated in the International Food Festival, the Latino student banquet, and Hispanic Heritage Month events.

“Being a first-generation immigrant college student with your own challenges, you were able to look beyond your own needs and assist others who may be less fortunate,” Thomas said. “You shared that your goal was to inspire other first-generation Latino students to keep dreaming by showing them that no goal is too big.”

Leah Beachy

A nursing major from Salem, Oregon, she was honored by Dr. Kate Clark, associate professor of nursing.

Beachy represents the very best of what it means to be both a nurse and a servant leader. She demonstrates keen intellect, discipline, perseverance, and a deep sense of purpose. “But what makes Leah truly exceptional goes beyond academics,” Clark said.

During her four years on the women’s soccer team, Beachy exemplified courageous leadership, advocating for change, gathering teammate feedback, engaging administrators, and pursuing solutions grounded in accountability, Clark said. As senior captain, she helped rebuild trust and integrity within the program, contributing to one of its strongest seasons both competitively and culturally.

Through EMU’s nursing program, Beachy learned to unite clinical excellence with justice-oriented patient care, seeing health care not just as treatment, but as a pursuit of dignity, equity, and compassion. Shaped by her intercultural experiences in Guatemala and Mexico, she helped facilitate a trauma-informed support group at Our Community Place for individuals recently rehoused after homelessness.

“And yet, even with all these accomplishments, Leah is most known for her warmth, her authenticity, and her limitless joy,” Clark said. “Whether serving as a tour guide, an ambassador for EMU, or simply showing up for others, she builds community wherever she goes and has a lot of fun doing it.”

Leah Frankenfield

A psychology major from Moraga, California, she was honored by Annalise Livingston, project coordinator for Royal RISE.

Frankenfield has been involved in just about every part of campus, always making an effort to connect with and support others, Livingston said.

“You are one of the most compassionate, driven, and engaged people I know, and your persistent dedication to caring for and including those around you is wildly inspiring,” she said. “Your determination to ensure that everyone feels they belong and have a safe space to be themselves, drawn from your own experience and vulnerability, shines through in your many involvements across campus.”

Through her leadership across various clubs and organizations, including Asian-Pacific Islander Student Alliance (APISA), University Women’s Empowerment Network (UWEN), Student Government Association, and Royal RISE, the senior psychology major—who will join EMU’s graduate counseling program this fall—planned programs and events to create welcoming environments and encourage connection. 

Frankenfield also served as a TA and peer tutor, ensuring students felt seen and supported. She’s provided students with a warm, friendly presence through her work at Common Grounds, the dining hall, the advancement and admissions offices, the library, and beyond. “You embody authenticity and humility,” Livingston said, “managing your hectic schedule in a semi-baffling way that leaves everyone around you wondering how on earth you do it all.”

Genesis Figueroa

A political science and Spanish language & Hispanic studies major from Millersburg, Ohio, she was honored by Interim President Rev. Dr. Shannon W. Dycus.

From her first day on campus, Figueroa has shown up consistently and with care, Dycus said.

As a conversation partner with the Spanish community and through her leadership roles—first as a senator, then secretary, and eventually co-president—Figueroa has shaped EMU in ways both visible and deeply felt, building connection and belonging across campus. Those roles require navigating complexity, listening deeply, and representing others with integrity, Dycus said, and Figueroa has carried them with a steady, grounded presence.

“What stands out most is not just what you’ve done, but how you’ve done it,” she said. “Again and again, people describe you as someone who listens deeply, brings warmth, and helps others feel seen. That kind of leadership shapes culture. That’s what you’ve done for EMU.”

Figueroa carried that spirit into the Latinx Student Alliance, as president of Young Democrats, and as a senior class officer, helping others learn together.

“One nominator said it best: ‘Genesis rises to any occasion, leading with initiative, creativity, awareness, and a deep commitment to collective learning and action,’” Dycus said. “Alongside it all, you remain committed to your academic work, bringing discipline, focus, and purpose as a political science and Spanish major, as well as engagement with immigrant communities in Harrisonburg.”

Arelys Martinez Fabian

A Spanish language & Hispanic studies and education (PreK-12) licensure major from Winchester, Virginia, she was honored by M. Esther Showalter, instructor of Spanish language and Hispanic studies.

In a fast-paced world, Martinez Fabian knows when to pause and be fully present with others, actively listening and walking alongside those in need, Showalter said.

During Martinez Fabian’s first year at EMU, Showalter’s childhood best friend unexpectedly passed away. In the midst of that loss, the student came to her office to offer support. She brought a small houseplant to honor her friend, and over the years, it has grown from a foot tall to four feet high. “It is by far my healthiest plant,” Showalter said. “Many people comment on how great it looks, and I tell them the story of my friend and how you, Arelys, have comforted me in my time of need, as you have for so many others.”

Along with Figueroa, Martinez Fabian served as co-president of the Student Government Association, becoming the first Latinx women in that role. She led with heart and humanity, Showalter said, strengthening communication between students and administrators and ensuring student voices shaped key campus decisions. Her leadership also increased involvement from underrepresented students, contributing to a more inclusive and engaged campus culture.

“Arelys has lived the EMU experience to its fullest,” Showalter said. “She is an inspiring leader, a curious learner, and an empathetic friend.”

Dibora Mekonnen

A political science and social work major from Silver Spring, Maryland, she was honored by Deanna Durham, associate professor of social work and sociology.

Whether leading the social work student organization, the Young Democrats, or the University Women’s Empowerment Network (UWEN), or serving as a Community Advisor, hall director, dialogue facilitator, student chaplain, or development office assistant, Mekonnen has consistently worked toward a vision of EMU at its best. She has also been involved with the Campus Activities Council, Student Government Association, and the EMU Washington Semester. “Over the past four years,” Durham said, “is there anything you did not say ‘yes’ to?”

Mekonnen’s leadership and deep commitment to building a more inclusive and welcoming university have touched every corner, building, and space on campus, Durham said. This past semester, that impact extended into the local community through her senior social work practicum, where she worked with Harrisonburg Mayor Deanna Reed. “You are a multitasker extraordinaire,” Durham told Mekonnen. “Your ability not only to generate ideas but also to bring others along with you is impressive. You have embodied the belief that we are always better together.”

As hall director of Elmwood, Mekonnen fostered a community grounded in inclusion, social awareness, and belonging, Durham said. “You have pushed for change on campus and have never remained silent when there was potential for harm to another student.”

Sarah Prroj

A business administration major from Shkoder, Albania, she was honored by Tyler Goss, director of student engagement and leadership development. 

Goss remembers his first interaction with Prroj. The International Student Organization (ISO) was preparing for its popular International Food Festival. Dozens of cooks would soon gather on Thomas Plaza, and he and other volunteers were setting up decorations, including more than 50 flagpoles. Each flag came with its own challenge, Goss said, noting the political significance of their placement. 

“In the midst of all that chaos and decision-making, there was Sarah, a first-year student, stepping up, directing, delegating, and leading with confidence and ease,” Goss said. “That moment was just the beginning.”

The Albanian international student dedicated her four years at EMU to the ISO, but her impact extends beyond that community. She served as a Community Advisor and Royal Ambassador and led the Good Business Gathering Club. At Common Grounds, she began as a barista and became its financial manager. She also served as student government treasurer. Away from campus, she volunteered at Young Life camp and shared her story at the Perspectives of World Missions Conference.

“From ISO president to community volunteer to SGA treasurer, and all the hours of Common Grounds’ financial tasks in between, Sarah leads every space with dependability, vision, and a deep desire to help each community flourish,” Goss said.

Roumany Sefin

A business administration and medical lab science major from Port Said, Egypt, he was honored by Dr. Jim Leaman, associate professor of business.

It’s the rare undergraduate student who publishes original research and presents it at a prestigious academic conference, Leaman said, yet Sefin did so halfway through his undergraduate career. “Then, he leveraged that innovation to launch an entrepreneurial venture to serve the needs of others,” the professor said.

Sefin combines world-class science with a true heart for service. As a dedicated researcher and founder of ROUMATICS, he’s already made a mark in the medical field, Leaman said. “His cancer research at EMU and Harvard was chosen for an American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) meeting, a huge honor for any scientist.”

One of his nominators wrote: “In my many years as an instructor and mentor, I have seldom seen a student with more commitment to academic and moral excellence.”

Sefin supports his peers on campus by tutoring across three academic disciplines and guiding international students as they navigate English and adjust to life in the United States. He is also an active volunteer at a local nonprofit and serves as a deacon at his church.

“Whether he’s leading Bible study or teaching DNA workshops locally, Roumany leads with kindness and excellence,” Leaman said. “He truly represents the best of this community.”

Emily Suarez Nunez

A nursing major from McGaheysville, Virginia, she was honored by Allen Clay Jr., associate dean for campus life. 

From student chaplain to hall director, Suarez Nunez’s time at EMU has reflected her deep commitment to the well-being of the campus community, Clay said.

As hall director, she led first-year students with poise and compassion. She approached difficult conversations with empathy and clear boundaries, and worked through conflict in ways that built both accountability and belonging.

“Her supervisors speak of her as a trusted leader who embodies EMU’s values of academic excellence, peace, justice, and social responsibility,” Clay said. 

Suarez Nunez’s impact reaches well beyond residence life through her involvement in the Student Government Association, student chaplains, and Y-Serve. She has spent countless hours in service, led spring break trips to Atlanta and Puerto Rico, and helped coordinate volunteer opportunities that connect EMU students with communities in need.

Her coworkers describe her as someone who can brighten a room, even while balancing the rigorous demands of a nursing degree. “Her patients will encounter not just medical expertise but a caregiver who knows how to listen, honor difficult moments, and help people feel seen,” Clay said. “That is a gift that Emily will carry forward in the next steps of her life.”

In his closing remarks at the ceremony, Jonathan Swartz, dean of students and co-chair of the Cords of Distinction committee, noted the many things the recipients will carry with them after graduating from EMU: their cords, degrees, relationships, and memories.

“You also carry responsibility, because the world you are entering does not need more impressive resumes nearly as much as it needs people who are willing to live with clarity, compassion, and courage,” Swartz said. “[It needs] people who will ask not just what can I achieve, but what can I repair; not just where can I succeed, but where am I needed? If these cords mean anything beyond today, it’s this: you’ve already begun to answer those questions with your lives, and we trust you will keep answering them.”

The 2026 Cords of Distinction committee members: Jonathan Swartz, Celeste Thomas, Kate Clark, Deanna Durham, Justin McIlwee, Dawn Neil, and Aundrea Smiley. Special thanks to Jennifer North Bauman for her help and to Thaddeus Jackson ’25, who performed music for the event.

Watch a video recording of the ceremony below!

As part of its ninth annual Academic and Creative Excellence (ACE) Festival, EMU held its 17th annual Authors’ Reception and Award Presentation on Thursday. The ceremony, hosted by the Provost’s Office in Old Commons Grounds (University Commons 177), celebrated the university’s Excellence in Teaching Award winners.

The awards honor three outstanding educators who exemplify excellence in teaching across four dimensions: impact on students, effective teaching practices, subject knowledge, and continual growth. This year’s recipients are:

• Dr. Ryan Good (professor or associate professor category)
• Dr. Kathryn Howard-Ligas (assistant professor or instructor category)
• Kevin Carini (adjunct faculty category)

Dr. Ryan Good
Associate professor of urban studies and director of the EMU Washington Semester

Professor Good’s teaching extends far beyond the classroom. He invites students into the lived realities of Washington D.C., helping them critically engage issues of race, space, and inequality. His deep knowledge of the region, combined with intentional course design, creates transformative learning experiences. Students describe “eureka moments” that reshape how they understand the world and their place in it. Ryan is reflective in his teaching, constantly refining his approach, and deeply committed to his students’ academic, professional, and personal growth. Simply put, he is the heart of the program.

“Not only does he work hard to prepare lessons that get students to think critically about what they are seeing in the city, he brings the city to them,” a colleague wrote. “They visit key organizations and events so that they can experience the real D.C. and gain deep insights about this city’s issues and how residents are overcoming them.”

“Ryan is enthusiastic about Washington and all the lessons it has to offer young minds,” another colleague wrote. “He loves this place. And he helps students to fall for it as well. A good number of our alums end up staying here afterwards or returning at a later point to live and work here.”

“Ryan would be the first to say that teaching and learning is a dance, and he is only a partner in their process, but I would say that he lays down the right tune and tempo and steps for them to succeed,” wrote another.

Dr. Kathryn Howard-Ligas
Assistant professor of psychology

Students consistently speak to Professor Howard-Ligas’s dynamic presence in the classroom. Her ability to balance interactive learning with deep disciplinary knowledge makes her courses both engaging and accessible. Drawing on her background in theater, she brings energy and clarity to complex psychological concepts. More importantly, she is intentional about connection, ensuring students feel supported, seen, and able to succeed.

“I appreciate the ways Kathryn connects with her students and ensures they have the support they need,” a colleague wrote. “Kathryn has been a great addition to the psychology department and has felt like a steady presence during all the transitions that the psychology department has endured.”

“Dr. Ligas is the most energetic teacher I have ever come across,” a student wrote. “Early morning classes are not for the weak but she speaks with such enthusiasm that it keeps you engaged throughout the class. And I genuinely love how she makes us do a ton of group activities, which to me, are a great way to learn. She also has great mastery over psychology concepts and clears all confusion and doubts with absolute clarity.”

Kevin Carini
Adjunct faculty in natural sciences

Students describe Professor Carini as deeply caring, engaging, and committed to their success. Even in challenging moments, he meets students with understanding and encouragement. His classroom is one of respect and energy, where learning physics becomes interactive, creative, and even joyful. Whether incorporating students into problem-solving or bringing humor into complex concepts, he creates an environment where students feel both challenged and supported.

“He takes time to listen and actually wants to see us succeed,” one student wrote. “In the classroom, he always incorporates the students into learning by writing his own problems with our names in them or making silly noises while crossing out variables to keep us interested and focused. He brings a positive and enthusiastic attitude to the classroom and EMU.”

In addition to the teaching awards, Dr. Tynisha Willingham, provost and vice president of academic affairs, recognized three faculty members who reached significant milestones at EMU this year:

• Dr. Hongtao Li has been awarded tenure and promoted to associate professor
• Dr. Timothy Seidel has been promoted to full professor
• Dr. Kristopher Schmidt has been promoted to full professor

Student writing awards

The ceremony recognized recipients of EMU’s First-Year Writing Awards, given to first-year students for their “excellent research papers.” The recipients are:

• First place: Ash Dixon for “The Environmental and Economic Effects of Fast Fashion”
• Second place: Monica Ehrenfels for “Assessing the 15-Minute City: Walkability in Modern Urban Spaces”
• Third place (tie): Malia Yoder for “Protecting our Forests: The Fight Against Deforestation” and Joshua Henkel for “AI Among Students”

Student academic awards 

The winners of EMU’s student academic awards were also announced at the event. Dr. Michael Horst, dean of Behavioral, Health and Natural Sciences, and the Rev. Dr. Sarah Ann Bixler, dean of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences, presented the awards.

Behavioral, Health and Natural Sciences

• The Judy H. Mullet Award for Psychology Internship Excellence: Hollyn Miller
• The Galen R. Lehman Award for Outstanding Achievement in Research in Psychology: Lauren Kauffman and Leah Frankenfield
• Outstanding Second-Year Biology Student: Malachi Peachey-Stoner
• Outstanding Senior Biology Student: Maria Longenecker
• Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Research: Maria Longenecker
• Natural Sciences Award for Exceptional Service: Sophia Nguyen and Dulce Shenk Zeager
• Outstanding First-Year Chemistry Student: Lisa Zimmerman and Mara Zimmerman
• Outstanding Senior Chemistry Student: Ethan Neufeld 
• Outstanding Senior in Engineering: Levi Stutzman
• Outstanding Senior Environmental Science Student: Madelynn Hamm and Jenna Oostland
• Outstanding Senior in Computer Science: Rebekah Copeland
• Outstanding Senior in Mathematics: Katie Tanous

Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences

Music

• Outstanding Student in Music: Naomi Kratzer and Eli Stoll
• Excellence in Musical Leadership: Jacob Nissley

Business and Leadership

• Outstanding Business Administration Senior: Sarah Prroj
• Outstanding Business Analytics Senior: Erik Wilkinson
• Outstanding Accounting Senior: Guadalupe Tenorio Ramirez
• Outstanding Achievement Award: Fadi Michael
• Outstanding Marketing Senior: Zazkia De la Vega
• Exceptional Research in Business and Leadership: Roumany Sefin
• Exceptional Service Award: Zazkia De la Vega
• Exceptional Leadership Award: Ben Knutsson

Center for Justice and Peacebuilding

• CatiAdele Slater for the dedicated organizing work as a graduate assistant, particularly the D.C. field trip
• Hannah Gilman for the innovative work advancing peacebuilding and conflict transformation tools in education through your practicum
• Toya Fernandez for the innovative work on restorative justice and racial healing, particularly bringing the Sankofa Circles to EMU
• Mercy Francis-Harris for your dedicated, thoughtful and quality work in all your classes
• Tyler Stanley for the dedicated work developed in all your classes, particularly PAX 509

Undergraduate Teacher Education

• Virginia Scholars Award in Undergraduate Teacher Education: Arelys Martinez Fabian

Authors’ Reception

The event showcased faculty and student scholarly works published since Jan. 1, 2025. Featured authors included:

Faculty

Ann Schaeffer, associate professor of nursing; James M. Yoder, professor of biology; Bryce Van Vleet, assistant professor of psychology; Mary Ann Zehr, assistant professor of rhetoric and composition; Wendell J. Shank, instructor of Spanish; Carol Grace Hurst, associate professor of social work; David F. Evans, professor of history and intercultural studies; Jacob Alan Cook, assistant professor of Christian ethics; Doug Graber Neufeld, professor of biology; Kathryn Mansfield, adjunct faculty for Center for Justice and Peacebuilding; Stephanie Day Powell, assistant professor of Hebrew bible; Timothy Seidel, associate professor of community and international development; Mark Metzler Sawin, professor of history; Debbi DiGennaro, instructor of social work; Heike Peckruhn, associate professor of religious studies; Jeff Copeland, professor of biology; Paula Ditzel Facci, assistant professor of peacebuilding; Dr. Cherelle Johnson, instructor of business and leadership; Benjamin Bergey, associate professor of music; Mary Sprunger, professor of history; Daniel Showalter, professor of mathematics; Benjamin J. Guerrero, assistant professor of music; and Steven David Johnson, professor of Visual and Communication Arts.

Students

Ash Dixon, first-year psychology major; Monica Ehrenfels, first-year music major; Joshua Henkel, first-year sociology major; and Malia Yoder, first-year natural sciences major; as well as the authors and artists of The Phoenix (2025), which was edited by Alexis Lewis and Zoey Mongold.

First-year student Monica Ehrenfels and junior Micah Wenger, both music and peacebuilding majors, provided music for the authors’ reception.

Photos by Aric Berg and Jon Styer/At Ease Design & Consulting

Dr. Ben Ruth ’09, a noninvasive cardiologist with Sentara Cardiology Specialists in Harrisonburg, received the 2026 Golden Stethoscope Award.

Ruth was selected from 43 nominees and more than 400 physicians on the Sentara RMH Medical Center staff to receive the award. Now in its 18th year, nomination for the annual award is “one of the highest honors a Sentara RMH physician can receive,” according to a sent by Sentara Health on April 1.

“I am truly honored to receive this award,” Ruth said in the release, “especially knowing it comes from colleagues I respect and collaborate with every day.”

The Golden Stethoscope Award is announced each year on National Doctors’ Day (March 30) and recognizes outstanding physicians who demonstrate excellence in patient care, customer service, communication, and teamwork.

‘EMU helped prepare me’

Originally from the Philadelphia area, Ruth came to the Shenandoah Valley to attend EMU and graduated with a degree in biology and a minor in math. “It’s here that I met my wife (Laura Ruth ’09) and I really grew to love this area,” .

“EMU helped prepare me with the empathy, integrity, and the clinical skills that my patients need,” he said in a last summer.

After graduating from EMU, Ruth earned his doctor of medicine from Pennsylvania State College of Medicine (Hershey, Pennsylvania) in 2015. He completed his residency in internal medicine and a fellowship in general cardiology at the University of Virginia Health System. He joined the at Sentara RMH Medical Center in Harrisonburg in August 2021.

Treats patients with compassion and humility

At Sentara, Ruth specializes in advanced imaging and preventive cardiology. His patients not only enjoy his professionalism, the release says, but also his warm, friendly demeanor.

Colleagues noted in their nominations that Ruth is a highly skilled, compassionate physician who provides exceptional, patient-centered care. He is known for listening carefully, communicating clearly, and going above and beyond to ensure patients feel respected, understood, and well cared for.

“Dr. Ruth brings a combination of clinical and imaging skills, compassion, and humility to every patient encounter,” Dr. Brad Rash, medical director of Sentara Cardiology Specialists, said in the release. “He is also an exceptional colleague and resource for our cardiology team. This recognition is well-deserved and a fitting tribute to the positive impact he has on the community.”

“Dr. Ruth earned that recognition through consistent excellence,” Dr. Robert Garwood, vice president and market chief medical officer at Sentara RMH Medical Center, said in the release. “He keeps his team well-informed, fosters a collaborative environment, and serves as an exceptional mentor. His sound judgment and thoughtful decision-making ensure the highest quality of care for his patients.”

“This event is about lifting one another up,” said Tyler Goss, director for student engagement and leadership development. “Coaches, faculty, staff, and fellow students all took the time to nominate these students for these awards.”

Kyle Remnant, adjunct director of the EMU Wind Ensemble, emceed the program. He announced each student’s name, noted who had nominated them, and shared the reason they were selected for each award. Recipients received a $2 Common Grounds Coffeehouse gift card.

And now, the awards…

Academic Champions

This award is for people who excelled academically or contributed significantly to the academic success of others.

Recipients: Leah Palmieri, Thalia Salinas, Ezekiel Awkward, LaToya Fernandez, and Sophia Armato.

Amazing Leadership

This award is for those who provided significant leadership across campus.

Recipients: Alex Belisle, James Powell, Jacob Sankara, Kaylin Ozuna, Marie Spaulding, Arelys Martinez Fabian, and Leah Frankenfield.

Enthusiastic Encouragers

This award is for those who encouraged and supported others in meaningful ways. “I know this isn’t a complete list because I see examples of it all across campus,” Remnant said. “We have so many, and it’s awesome.”

Recipients: Shavia Davis, Alberto Weaver, Lauren Kauffman, Daeman Odom, JosĂŠ Gabriel MelĂŠndez, Hannah Gilman, Kristen Andersen, Esme Martin King, Kiyah Mata, Rosa Martin Fonseca, Leah Frankenfield, and Lawson Kauffman.

Movers and Shakers

This award is for those who helped to shift campus culture for the better.

Recipients: Fiker “Fifi” Yigzaw, the EMU Outdoor club, the EMU Soccer Club, Malia Bauman, and Leah Beachy. 

Create-Your-Own awards

“There are many things happening on campus that don’t fit into any box we’ve already created,” Remnant said. “So coaches, teachers, and friends made their own awards to better reflect the kind of awesomeness some of our students show.”

Daisy Buller received the I’m Going to Make Myself an Athlete Even if it Kills Me Award in recognition of her commitment to “do everything possible” as a triathlete to make the 2025 NCAA National Championships. “Ten thousand yards of swimming each week, too many 50- to 100-mile bike rides, too much running, and lots of strength sessions led to Daisy placing 12th at East Regionals and leading EMU to a sixth place finish at Nationals,” Coach Bob Hepler wrote in his nomination.

Logan Boyd received the Most Valuable Non-SGA Senator Senator Award. “Logan has been an amazing presence in SGA meetings,” wrote an anonymous nominator. “Logan did not run for student government this semester, but has shown up to numerous meetings and provided helpful insight and been a fun presence in meetings.”

Renae Benner and Isaac Greenleaf received the Planetarium Professionals Award from an anonymous nominator. “Renae and Isaac have been working for weeks to keep improving the planetarium in the Suter Science Center, which is not an easy project, and they are killing it,” that person wrote.

Engage Awards

“The moment we’ve all been waiting for all semester long: the EMU Engage Awards,” Goss announced. These awards, presented as emu-shaped trophies, were given to the three students who earned the most Engage Points this semester.

Third place (bronze emu) with 41 points: Arleigh Mason
Second place (silver emu) with 44 points: Mara Zimmerman
First place (gold emu) with 46 points: Lisa Zimmerman

For a recording of the ceremony, watch the video embedded below:

Royals Freshman Athlete of the Year

This award is given to first-year student-athletes with the most outstanding athletic achievement in the past academic year. Student-athletes who maintained a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 were eligible.

Male Freshman Athlete of the Year: Ezekiel Awkward (Men’s Volleyball)

made an immediate impact as an outside hitter on the volleyball squad. The Bloomfield, New Jersey, native ranked second on the team and ninth in the Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) in total kills with 227. He was also a significant contributor in the service game for the Royals, placing second on the team and fifth in the ODAC in service aces with 30. His efforts helped lift EMU to a 15-16 record, a third-place finish in the ODAC, and a spot in the conference’s inaugural men’s volleyball tournament.

“Ezekiel is a man of few words who leads by example, works hard, is dedicated and responsible, always pushes hard to get better, and is an excellent teammate,” said Omar Hoyos Aliff, head men’s volleyball coach.

Female Freshman Athlete of the Year: Ava Walker (Lacrosse)

proved to be a prolific goal scorer for the lacrosse team. The Glen Allen, Virginia, native set the single-season school record for goals with 46. She also set EMU’s single-game goals record, scoring nine times in a victory over Averett on April 5. Among ODAC players, she ranked seventh in goals per game (2.71), eighth in shots per game (5.53), and 12th in total points (58). With her help, EMU Lacrosse experienced its winningest season in program history, going 6-11 overall and 4-6 in ODAC play.

“From the first day that Ava stepped onto the lacrosse field, it was clear she was someone special,” said head coach Mikaela Brooks-Fauver. “Beyond the stats and highlight plays, what makes Ava stand out is her mindset. She shows up early, puts in the extra reps, and leads with quiet confidence and heart.”

Royals Athlete of the Year

This award is given to student-athletes with the most outstanding athletic achievement in the past academic year. Student-athletes who maintained a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 were eligible.

Male Athlete of the Year: Andre Mills (Men’s Volleyball)

, a sophomore from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, had one of the best offensive seasons in the ODAC. The opposite hitter ranked first in the conference with 370 kills and 3.43 kills per set, which was 49th most among all Division III players. He eclipsed at least 20 kills in a match three times this season, including an ODAC-high 28 kills in a five-set win over Marymount on March 22. He ranked first in the conference with 448.5 points, which was 53 points higher than the next closest player. He also led the ODAC with 4.15 points per set and finished fourth in the conference with 0.32 service aces per set. Defensively, he was second on the team and 11th in the ODAC with 0.73 blocks per set.Ěý

“He’s very competitive and leads by working hard, pushing everyone to do their best,” Hoyos said. “He brings a lot of energy and competitive spirit.”

Female Athlete of the Year: Meaghan Dean (Softball)

A sophomore transfer from Madison, Virginia, finished the season ranked near the top of the ODAC in most major statistical categories. Her .437 average led the Royals and was fourth highest in the conference. She led the ODAC in home runs with six, and was third in hits with 55. Dean, who batted third, drove in 55 runs, which was 10th most in the conference. Among ODAC players, she ranked second in total bases (82), second in on-base plus slugging percentage (1.122), and third in slugging percentage (.651). She had nine doubles and struck out just four times in 126 at-bats. As an infielder, she was seventh in the ODAC with 167 put-outs and made just two errors with a .988 fielding percentage from her spot at first base.

“Meaghan is a softball player who leads by example,” said Head Softball Coach JD McCurdy. “She always has a great attitude. She’s humble, competitive, accountable, and a great teammate.”

President’s Award

This award is given to student-athletes who exemplify the values of the athletic department through academic achievement, athletic contribution, faith commitment, leadership, campus involvement, and service.

Male President’s Award: Jason Dwyer ’25 (Baseball)

, of Fairfax, Virginia, majored in political science and history with minors in pre-law and criminology and achieved a 3.94 GPA. He plans to attend graduate school at either George Washington University or George Mason University and enlist in the Virginia National Guard.Ěý

A four-year member of the Royals baseball team, Dwyer was named the team’s “glue guy” and served on the Baseball Leadership Council. He played in 36 games with 22 starts, notching 19 hits and driving in 10 runs. 

Off the field, he was a recipient of the EMU Honors Scholarship, was named to the Dean’s List all four years, and was selected to the All-ODAC Academic Team the past three seasons. He was a project co-leader for an Inclusive Excellence Grant, interned for a U.S. senator during a semester at the Washington Community Scholars’ Center, and served as president of the EMU College Republicans. He also was a Community Advisor, a student representative for Reimagining EMU, and a member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and Student Government Association.

“Relationships and perseverance define my EMU athletics experience,” he said. “The relationships have been invaluable, but perseverance has been the greatest lesson. This experience has helped mold me, and I am forever grateful for what it has taught me and the people it has brought into my life.”

Female President’s Award: Jenna Weaver ’25 (Women’s Cross Country, Track & Field, Triathlon)

, of Harrisonburg, Virginia, majored in nursing with a minor in sociology and achieved a 3.99 GPA. She plans to take her nursing boards, move to Alaska with her fiancĂŠ, and work as a nurse on an intermediate care unit.

She was a four-year member of the cross country, triathlon, and track & field teams. In triathlon, she was a two-time runner-up and a third-place finisher at the NCAA East Regional National Qualifier. She was named Second-Team All-American at the NCAA Triathlon National Championship in 2022, and was named First-Team All-American in 2023. During her four years with  EMU Track & Field, she etched her name in the record books in the 1,500-meter, the mile, the 3K, 5K, and the 10K. She is also the EMU record holder in the triathlon.

Weaver was named to the Dean’s List and the ODAC All-Academic Team for cross country and track & field all four years, the NCAA All-Region Academic Team, and is a three-time NCAA Triathlon Academic All-American. She was a member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, the Nursing Student Association, and the Peace Fellowship Club.

“EMU Athletics has been one of the most positive experiences of my college career, and for it I am extremely grateful,” Weaver said. “The last four years have helped me grow to believe in myself, be confident in my abilities, how to encourage and lead teammates, and how to strive together.”

Profiles were written by EMU Athletics

Royals Freshman Athlete of the Year

Male Freshman Athlete of the Year:ĚýĚý(Track & Field)

A first-year athlete from Broadway, Virginia, Gonzalez-Santiago achieved not only EMU all-time marks, but also garnered regional and national recognition.

Most notably, Gonzalez-Santiago broke the school record in the 500m with a blazing-fast time of 1:04.86, which is also the 20th-fastest indoor 500m in NCAA Division III history. Gonzalez-Santiago had the following EMU All-Time Top 10 performances during the indoor season: third in 200m, third in 400m, and ninth in long jump. Gonzalez-Santiago’s 400m time of 49.06 was the fastest in the ODAC during indoor season, and he was named USTFCCCA (U.S. Track & Field and Cross Country Coaches Association) All-South Region indoors for the 400m.

Female Freshman Athlete of the Year:ĚýĚý(Track & Field)

David, a first-year athlete from Richmond, Virginia, made an instant impact on the EMU Women’s Track & Field program.

Her name is on the EMU All-Time Top 10 lists for four indoor events and three outdoor events. She is second in school history in the indoor 300m, sixth in the indoor long jump, and fifth in the indoor triple jump. At the ODAC Indoor Track & Field Championships in February, David finished fourth overall in the triple jump, just one spot shy of an All-ODAC recognition as a first-year.

David’s indoor success carried over to the spring outdoor season, during which she rose to fourth in EMU history in the outdoor triple jump, sixth in the 400m hurdles, seventh in the outdoor long jump, and ninth in the outdoor 200m. At the ODAC Outdoor Track & Field Championships in April, David scored points for the Royals in two events, placing seventh in the 400m hurdles and eighth in the triple jump.

Royals Athlete of the Year

Male Athlete of the Year:ĚýĚý(Cross Country/Track & Field)

Immanuel had a breakthrough 2023-24 campaign on the cross country trails as well as on the track.

In cross country, Immanuel, a junior from Allentown, Pennsylvania, ran the third-fastest 8K in EMU history, clocking in at 25:11.7. Immanuel continued to race at a high level into the postseason, placing seventh at the ODAC Championships to achieve First Team All-ODAC status, followed by a 17th-place showing at the NCAA DIII South Region Championships. The latter performance by Immanuel earned him a spot at the NCAA DIII Cross Country Championships.

In track & field, Immanuel set the school record for the indoor 5000m, completing 25 laps of the 200m indoor track in a time of 15:09.89. Moving outdoors for the spring season, Immanuel ran the second-fastest times in EMU history for both the 3000m steeplechase and the 5000m. Immanuel’s 3000m steeplechase time came in a runner-up showing at the ODAC Championships in April. ĚýImmanuel also became just the seventh runner in EMU history to break the sub-four-minute barrier in the 1500m, running a personal best of 3:57.64 at the ODAC Championships.Ěý

Female Athlete of the Year:ĚýĚý(Track & Field)

Taylor followed up an All-American performance in 2023 by continuing to rewrite the EMU record books and make noise at the ODAC and NCAA Division III levels in 2024.

Taylor, a master’s graduate from Pottstown, Pennsylvania, won both the long jump and shot put at the ODAC Championships. In the long jump, Taylor reset her own school record with an impressive leap of 5.82m. Currently, Taylor is ranked in the top 10 in the ODAC in nine different events: heptathlon (first), long jump (first), shot put (second), javelin (second), triple jump (fourth), 400m (sixth), 100m hurdles (seventh), high jump (eighth), and the 200m (10th).

Taylor’s performances this spring have also garnered national attention and rankings. In all of NCAA Division III, she is ranked seventh in both the heptathlon and the long jump. With those marks, Taylor is in line to qualify for the NCAA Division III Outdoor Track & Field Championships for the second year in a row.

“In two short years, she has already become one of the greatest overall athletes to come through EMU,” Head Track & Field CoachĚýKyle DickinsonĚý˛ő˛šžąťĺ.

President’s Award

This award is given to student-athletes who exemplify the values of the athletic department through academic achievement, athletic contribution, faith commitment, leadership, campus involvement and service.

Male President’s Award:ĚýĚý(Men’s Soccer)

Bonilla, a Richmond, Virginia, native, double-majored in political science and history, minored in Spanish and achieved a 3.87 GPA. He graduated in May and plans to attend grad school.
Ěý
He was a member of the men’s soccer team for four years while at EMU. In 2023, he led the team and was second in the ODAC in assists with seven, while also helping the team reach the ODAC Tournament for the first time since 2018.
Ěý
He has been named to the Dean’s List all four years, was named CSC Academic All-District in 2022 and 2023, is a three-time All-ODAC Academic Team member, and presented at the intercollegiate historical Erasmus Symposium. He was also a member of the Latino Student Alliance (LSA), served as historian in 2021-2022, and as president for 2022-2023. He was vice president of the Student Government Association, was a member of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, the International Student Organization and was the SGA representative for the Union of Student Organization.

Female President’s Award:ĚýĚý(Women’s Volleyball)

Miller, of Millersburg, Ohio,Ěýdouble-majored in biology and psychology and achieved a 3.98 GPA. After graduating in May, she plans to attend Walsh University in Ohio to get her master’s degree in occupational therapy.Ěý

She was a four-year member of the women’s volleyball team. During her time on the court, she etched her name in the record books, sitting third in career assists with 1,789 and fifth all-time in assists per set with 6.65. 

She has been named to the Dean’s List all four years, was a biology honors student in 2022, was named CSC Academic All-District from 2022 to 2024, is a three-time All-ODAC Academic Team member, was named to the VaSID All-State Academic Team in 2023 and was the recipient of the Women’s Volleyball Academic Award in 2023.Ěý

On campus, she was a Student Athlete Advisory Committee representative from 2020 to 2023, before becoming the president in the fall of 2023. She was a leader for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, a Common Grounds barista, co-president of the senior class, a peer tutor, part of the University Women’s Empowerment Network leadership team and was a Celebration Team Leader.Ěý

Profiles were written by EMU Athletics. They have been edited for conciseness.

The celebration was held at Brix & Columns Vineyards in McGaheysville, Virginia. Eighteen guests from EMU, including students, administrators, faculty and staff, attended to show their support for Font-GuzmĂĄn.

The Diversity Business Leadership Award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated exceptional personal and professional leadership within the business or nonprofit community, according to the nomination form. 

“This person must have a track record of giving back to their community through the creation of economic opportunities, advocating for minorities and those in the protected classes in the workplace and/or in business, or creating an environment for residents to become self-sufficient or successful,” it reads.

Font-GuzmĂĄn, who was hired to lead the Office of DEI in 2021, has made great strides in increasing the sense of belonging for all students at EMU. This progress is highlighted in a short-form documentary featuring actor Dennis Quaid and airing in millions of homes.

“Jackie has accelerated EMU’s DEI journey,” EMU President Dr. Susan Schultz Huxman said. “She has equipped us in word and deed for how we can expand our horizons and belong together as a community of learners.”

Font-GuzmĂĄn said she was deeply grateful for the support and the opportunity to continue contributing to the community’s journey toward inclusivity and belonging. 

“This award is a testament to the extraordinary community at EMU,” she said. “My efforts are built upon the foundational work of countless individuals who have advocated for and advanced DEI over many years.”

Earlier this month, as EMU students Madelynn Hamm, Vanessa Gardiner and Aja Laun pieced together the slides for their ACE Festival presentation, they received some exciting news. The Smithsonian Institute heard about their work collecting traces of salamander DNA and wanted their help.

Over the past two years, members of the project — guided by faculty mentor Professor Doug Graber Neufeld — collected water samples from the streams of West Virginia and vernal pools of the George Washington National Forest to gather environmental DNA on species of salamanders (the common two-lined salamander and the more elusive tiger and hellbender salamanders). Their project is especially beneficial as it uses a noninvasive approach to monitor species distribution.

On Thursday, at the seventh annual Academic and Creative Excellence (ACE) Festival, Hamm, Gardiner and Laun presented on their research methods and findings. Their 15-minute talk was one of 49 oral presentations delivered by more than 85 student presenters throughout the day all across campus — at Campus Center, in Suter Science Center and at Martin Chapel — in the humanities, biology and environmental sustainability, engineering, nursing, political science, education, and more. Topics ran the gamut from managing the invasive species in Park Woods with baby goats (mark your calendars for 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, April 20, to help clear the brush and pet those baby goats) to the historical and modern context of arsenic dye, lead paint and fast fashion.

Click here to view the schedule.

Throughout the day, more than 120 students presented their research at 65 poster displays spread across EMU’s campus.

One of those posters was about the use of popular artificial intelligence tool ChatGPT among students at EMU. In their research, students Mesa Dula, Jansen Miller and Ben Alderfer found that the majority of EMU students who use the AI chatbot use it about one to two days a week, mostly for generating ideas and brainstorming. About 30% of the 47 students they polled said they did not use ChatGPT at all. Alderfer said he uses ChatGPT often and was curious to see its use among his classmates.

“I think it’s a great tool and I think it’s probably going to become far more prevalent in the next couple years,” he said.

At another display, engineering majors Lleyton Stutzman, Micaiah Landis and Adam Stoltzfus operated a sandbox. Visitors could create mounds or divots in the sand, and a computer would adjust to the new topography by projecting hills and mountains and lakes and rivers. Landis said the sandbox shows them how water flows down mountains and through valleys, which has applications in studying erosion.

Students used the day off from classes to attend the oral presentations, view poster displays, congratulate published authors at a reception, take in the many music and arts events and get a sense of what everyone’s been working on over the past year.

For students who attend the ACE Festival, it gives them the experience of attending an academic conference, said festival coordinator Diane Farrar. For students who present at the festival, it’s a way to showcase their own research, creative projects, and papers, she added.

EMU President Susan Schultz Huxman, speaking before a keynote address on Wednesday, spoke about the goals of the ACE Festival. The first goal is to recognize excellence in research at EMU. A second goal is to raise the visibility of the diversity of scholarship at EMU.

“And, number three is to validate liberal arts education — to examine the rigor, the relevance, the impact and interdisciplinary richness of research that pulsates from our liberal arts fields in the humanities, fine arts, social sciences and STEM disciplines,” she said.

Speaking of that keynote address…

Author Douglas Abrams delivers keynote address

A lot of people might know about Archbishop Desmond Tutu, but few know him as well as Douglas Abrams. The New York Times-bestselling author, who co-wrote The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World with Tutu and worked with him for more than a decade, shared the wisdom he’s gleaned from the Nobel Peace Prize laureate — including how to avoid road rage — as well as lessons from many other luminaries. Abrams co-wrote The Book of Hope: A Survival Guide for Trying Times with primatologist Jane Goodall, which was this year’s selection for EMU’s Common Read. He spoke about the importance of hope in a world that’s suffering and the dangers of despair and cynicism.

“In one study, communal hope was the best predictor of community well-being,” Abrams said. “Hope and despair are as contagious as any virus. Despair turns us inward. Hope sends us into the arms of others.”

During a talkback session following the address, Mary Ann Zehr, who teaches first-year writing at EMU, shared that she had her students read The Book of Hope and that it had resonated with them. She asked Abrams if interviewing Goodall made him a more hopeful person.

“In writing the book, I was able to see this long march through history that we are on and to see the progress we’ve made, and that has been really inspiring,” Abrams replied.

Student artists unveil works at opening reception

An opening reception at Margaret Martin Gehman Gallery showcased the works of four talented EMU artists. Cassidy Walker expressed the duality of people and the differences between how they perceive themselves and how others perceive them in a series of mixed-media portraits. Valentina Barahona created a line of packaging design labels for a juice brand that would prove eye-catching to consumers. Mariah Miller used a technique called cyanotype to create a visual representation of how “humans invade and then abandon nature.” Afton Rhodes-Lehman reflected her experiences with obsessive-compulsive disorder in a collection of acrylic paintings that juxtapose restrictive and rigid lines with the “chaotic joy” of vibrant colors. The exhibition will run through May 1.

Musicians dazzle at student recital

A student recital at Lehman Auditorium on Thursday featured vocalists Reah Clymer, Arnayja Parker, Riley Quezada, Elie Hoover, Jacob Nissley and Kay Pettus, pianist Rafael de Tablan, clarinetist Luke Haynes, organist Laurel Evans, tuba player Allie Smith and French horn player Tyler Williams. The student musicians were accompanied on piano by Harold Bailey, David Berry and Luke Haynes.

The slate of music performances continued Thursday night with a wind ensemble concert. A university choir concert will be held at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 19, in Lehman Auditorium, and a concerto/aria orchestra concert will be held at 7 p.m. on Saturday, April 20, in Lehman.

A bevy of award winners, among both students and faculty, were announced at ACE Festival events on Thursday.

Three faculty members receive Excellence in Teaching Awards

Hosted by the Provost’s Office, the 15th annual EMU Authors’ Reception and Awards Presentation recognized and celebrated the winners of the university’s Excellence in Teaching Awards:

Adjunct faculty: David Pruett
Instructors and assistant professors: Allison Wilck
Associate professors and professors: Ji Eun Kim

For more information about each award winner, visit the post below.

The event also recognized three recipients of student writing awards:

First place: Tie between Caleb Metzler, Willy-Nilly Reforestation, Why Diversification is Key, and Brooke Snyder, Microplastics and the Potential Threats They Pose to Humans
Second place: Willem Hedrick, The Effects of Short-Form Video, TikTok, and the Effects of Short-Form Video Content on Adolescents

In addition to the awards, the reception showcased the published scholarly works of faculty, staff and students from the past two years. Featured faculty authors included: Kirsten Eve Beachy, Sarah Bixler, David Berry, Jacob Cook, Shannon Dycus, Marti Eads, Paula Facci, Nancy Heisey, Steven David Johnson, Jim Leaman, Heike Peckruhn, Kevin Seidel, Tim Seidel, Kimberly Schmidt, Daniel Showalter, Mary Sprunger, Andrew Suderman, Paul J. Yoder, Howard Zehr, and Mary Ann Zehr. Chamber musicians Miriam Rhodes and Dr. Benjamin Bergey performed violin music for the reception, which was held at the Sadie Hartzler Library.

Three VaCA students receive Styer scholarship award

At the art exhibition, Professor Steven David Johnson announced the recipients of the Matthew Alan Styer Award:

• Cassidy Walker
• Nussa Garti
• Oslyn Mejia Gomez

The award is given to three rising seniors majoring in the visual arts who have demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication in design and/or photography, Johnson said.

Matthew Alan Styer ’05, a graduate of EMU’s Visual and Communication Arts (VaCA) program, worked for EMU’s marketing and communications department as a videographer, designer and photographer until 2008. The scholarship endowment honors the memory of Styer, who died from leukemia at age 30 in 2011.

STEM Celebration poster award winners announced

The recipients of this year’s STEM Celebration poster awards are:

Environmental Applications of GIS posters
First place: Joel Kornhaus, Assessing vegetation growth as a result of sand dams
Second place: Tie between Evelyn Shenk and Esme Martin
Honorable mentions: Levi Myers and Laura Craft

Chemistry class
First place: Jenna Oostland, William Bartel and Madelynn Hamm, Water System Health of Local Streams
Second place: Amber Bonds and Maya Tutton
Honorable mentions: Evelyn Shenk, Andrew Arledge and Elaine Miranda Perez

Biology class
First place: Marciella Shallomita, Bioinformatic analysis of cardiac tissue functionality: Implications for the process of bioengineering hearts
Second place: Ethan Neufeld
Honorable mentions: Betty Debebe, Elaine Miranda Perez and Aja Laun

Independent research and projects
First place: Marciella Shallomita, Abigail Forrest, Elaine Miranda Perez and Sadie Oesch, Loss-of-Function In The Drosophila Serotonin Transporter (dSert) Gene Changes Sleep and Activity and Decreases Life Span
Second place: Adesola Johnson, Meredith Lehman and Allysen Welty-Peachy
Honorable mentions: Levi Stutzman, Ivan Betancourt, Myles Dixson, Ben Friesen Guhr, Jonathan Kronimus and Sean Swartley; and Samantha Hensley, Hayley Collins and Sarah Moore

The posters from STEM disciplines (biology, chemistry, biomedicine, engineering, computer science, and psychology) were judged by EMU STEM faculty, with winners selected in the four categories. 

And, for one more award…

Office of DEI announces a new staff award for community organizing

The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), in conjunction with the Committee on Diversity and Inclusion (CODI) and Professor Dr. Gaurav Pathania, announced a new award for EMU staff employees who promote community organizing and enhance a sense of belonging and inclusivity among diverse groups. 

The Ambedkar-Baker DEI Award for Community Organizing seeks to honor the contributions and legacy of eminent African-American civil rights activist and organizer Ella Baker and social reformer Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, architect of India’s Constitution. This award celebrates staff members at EMU who work together to address institutional inequalities and make positive changes. Eligible candidates are those who contribute to building a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming community at EMU, fostering a sense of belonging for everyone. Staff members can either be nominated by others or nominate themselves for this award.

Further details about the criteria for this award and the nomination process will be released this fall.

Sponsors for the ACE Festival included Blauch Brothers Inc. mechanical contractors, Park View Federal Credit Union, and Omar’s Hair Salon & Barbershop.

Photos by Macson McGuigan/EMU and Jon Styer/At Ease Design & Consulting

Allen, of Weyers Cave, Virginia, was presented with the award on Friday, March 22, at the NASW chapter’s annual conference in Norfolk. She said it was an honor just to be nominated for the award and was shocked to find out she had won. Joining her at the conference from EMU was Professor Carol Hurst.

“I was excited to have one of my professors and my family in the same place because they’ve been there for me and encouraged me along the way,” Allen said.

The EMU senior, whose mother is a social worker for the Harrisonburg-Rockingham Community Services Board, said she’s always enjoyed helping others.

This semester through a full-time senior practicum, Allen is working side-by-side with a school social worker and helping students at Riverheads Elementary School become more engaged in their academics. As part of her field placement with Augusta County Public Schools, she meets with kids weekly and works to get them caught up through mentoring, fun activities, academic support and motivation.

The top of their list

Professor Deanna Durham, director of the social work program at EMU, said Allen was a unanimous pick from the nomination committee.

“There are three faculty in social work and we all brainstormed about who would be a good person to nominate,” Durham said. “We all had Bri at the top of our list.”

A nomination letter sent to the NASW noted Allen’s engagement in intercultural relationships and her direct work with children and their parents through and the Boys & Girls Club of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County.

“Bri’s leadership and interpersonal strengths stand out,” the letter reads. “She has been a warm and energetic organizer of others.”

It lauds Allen in her ability to lead her softball teammates and social work classmates in service projects. It also notes her positive contributions in class as well as her aptitude for clinical social work practice.

“Brianna Allen is a caring, empathetic social worker and member of NASW who will make an impact on our field,” the letter states.

A rewarding part of the job

Allen said her classes at EMU and the support she’s received from professors have prepared her well. 

“I see the things I’ve learned play out in my practicum all the time,” she said.

After graduating from EMU in May, Allen will begin an accelerated online program at Virginia Commonwealth University to earn her master’s in social work. As part of the three-semester program, she said she looks forward to being placed in an internship where she can continue making a difference.

“In social work you meet individuals who need help and sometimes don’t know where to start,” Allen said. “Maybe you can’t solve their problems, but you can give them the tools they need. Seeing them take those tools and either turn their life around or change a part they need to work on — that’s really rewarding.”

Small but mighty

EMU’s social work program has been continuously accredited by the Council on Social Work Education () since 1976. Only about 15 programs in Virginia, including EMU, are fully accredited, Durham said. Thirty-three social work majors make up the program.

While the award received by Allen will draw more attention to the quality of students at EMU, Durham said the program has already set itself apart from its peers.

“We’re small but mighty, and we have students who are digging in deep in the profession and contributing amazing energy and creative imagination to our local community,” Durham said. “This will be another time for other programs to look to EMU and say, ‘Wow, way to go.’”