Senior Marshals
Message of Congratulations from Marsha
The University of Maryland Senior Marshals this year — as in years past — represent graduating seniors who have demonstrated the highest levels of scholarship, service to the campus community, extracurricular involvement, and personal growth.
Together with Robert Infantino, associate dean of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences at UMD, I have had the privilege to serve alongside student Senior Marshals each year to usher in graduating Terps at main commencement ceremonies. We are so happy to be celebrating in-person commencements again this year.
We congratulate the Class of 2025 for their achievement in overcoming such unprecedented times and making the most of it. We celebrate the achievement of graduation for all of these Terps
Marsha Guenzler-Stevens, PhD '93
Director, Adele H. Stamp Student Union — Center for Campus Life
Division of Student Affairs
University of Maryland
Abigail Lee Hardy
Anthropology
Abigail Hardy, a member of the Monacan Indian Nation in Amherst, VA, is an anthropology major from Baltimore, MD. During her time at UMD, she has been the president of the Native and Indigenous Student Union, a teacher’s assistant for courses in the Department of Psychology and Anthropology, a former executive member of the UMD Women’s Rugby Football Club, and the undergraduate recipient of the Ashley Minner Indigenous Artist Award presented by #IndigenousUMD. Abigail is a member of the Indigenous Futures Lab and the IndigenizeSNAC cooperative, where she combines art and research to convey information through graphic recording. After graduation, Abigail plans to pursue a graduate degree in library sciences with a focus on archival work.
Abigail Manga
Information Systems
Abigail Manga is an Information Systems major from Fort Washington, Maryland. During her time at the University of Maryland, Abigail served as the President of Senior Council, President of the National Association of Black Accountants, Alumni & Member Engagement Chair of Omicron Delta Kappa, and as a Smith Ambassador. Abigail also serves on the Diversity Equity Council and Smith Community Council within the Robert H. Smith School of Business, while working as a Resident Assistant and Office Assistant in the Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs. Furthermore, Abigail was a part of the Public Leadership College Park Scholars Program, the QUEST Honors Program, and the Philip Merrill Presidential Scholars Program.
Aditya Viswanath Viswanathan Ram
Biochemistry and Neuroscience
Aditya Viswanath Viswanathan Ram is a Biochemistry and Neuroscience double major from Ellicott City, Maryland. During his time at UMD, Aditya was a research assistant at the Fushman Laboratory, a teaching assistant for Organic Chemistry 1 Lab, a resident assistant for the Department of Resident Life, an executive board member for the University Honors Student Board, an award recipient of the Bruce B. Jarvis Outstanding Junior Award in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, and an award recipient of the Student-Proposed Innovation and Research Experience Award from the Office of Undergraduate Research. Through all of his experiences, Aditya has always strived to uplift his peers and leave a positive impact on everyone he interacts with. After graduation, Aditya plans to attend medical school to become a physician who will work to improve the medical system and help underserved communities.
Alaya Chubb
Bioengineering
Alaya is graduating with a B.S. in Bioengineering and is an Honors College Integrated Life Sciences (ILS) scholar. During her time at the University of Maryland, she has served as an Academic Peer Coach for Engineering Academic Services, volunteered as a mathematics and reading tutor for the Latino Student Fund, served as the Fundraising Chair for the Charles R. Drew Pre-Health Society, and danced on the UMD STEPP team. She has also consistently volunteered as an ILS Peer Mentor for freshman ILS students, and attained research experience in two Department of Bioengineering laboratories and through the National Institutes of Health Summer Internship Program. After graduating, Alaya will matriculate to the University of North Carolina Adams School of Dentistry to pursue the Doctor of Dental Surgery program.
Allison (Hejia) Li
Information Science & Criminology and Criminal Justice
Hejia (Allison) Li is from Rockville, Maryland, and is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice and a Bachelor of Science in Information Science at the University of Maryland, College Park. During her time at UMD, Allison has strived to foster a supportive community for first-generation college students and LGBTQ+ students. As a Peer Career Educator, she has guided students in professional development, helping them refine resumes, cover letters, and interview skills. She serves as the President of oSTEM, advocating for LGBTQ+ students in STEM by organizing career panels and technical workshops. Additionally, as a member of the Dean’s Student Advisory Council, she works on outreach initiatives to enhance student engagement, and as Vice President of Phi Alpha Delta, she has led professional development and service opportunities for pre-law students.
Aneesah Lovejoy
Criminology & Criminal Justice
Aneesah is a Criminology and Criminal Justice major with a minor in Global Terrorism from Frederick, Maryland, with a passion for promoting justice, diversity, and national security. During her time at UMD, she has served as a Team Lead Resident Assistant for Centreville Hall, a Federal Fellow in Homeland Security, and an intern with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. She has conducted research on counterterrorism strategies, legal policy, and criminal justice reform while also gaining experience in investigative work and intelligence analysis. After graduation, Aneesah hopes to pursue a career in federal law enforcement or intelligence, where she will continue her work towards justice, equity, and national security.
Angelina Mussini
Environmental Science and Policy
Angelina Mussini is from Bel Air, MD, and will be graduating with a B.S. in Environmental Science & Policy. As a member of the Federal Fellows program, she served as a teaching assistant and a representative to the Dean of Undergraduate Studies' Student Advisory Board. Angelina is also a campaign coordinator for the Maryland Public Interest Research Group and has held internships with the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Maryland General Assembly. Additionally, she is a squad leader for the Mighty Sound of Maryland drumline, the scholarship chair of Tau Beta Sigma National Honorary Band Sorority, and a member of Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honor Society. After graduation, Angelina will pursue a Master of Public Policy here at UMD.
Anna Petersen
Criminology & Criminal Justice, Psychology
Anna Petersen is graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice and a dual degree in Psychology. During her time on campus, Anna has co-founded the Undergraduate Psychology Association, served as BSOS Student Senator, represented undergraduate students on the University Senate Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion committee and the Department of Psychology Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee, and served as the membership chair of Phi Alpha Delta pre-law fraternity. Anna has also been selected as a Philip Merrill Presidential Scholar, is a member of Omicron Delta Kappa, and earned the Honors College Research Grant for her undergraduate honors thesis studying the relationship between ghost guns and concentrated disadvantage. After graduation, Anna hopes to work for the federal government.
Arjun Rakheja
Biological Sciences: Cell Biology and Genetics
Arjun is a Cell Biology and Molecular Genetics major with minors in General Business and Actuarial Mathematics from Germantown, Maryland. During his time at UMD, he was the Secretary and Risk Management Officer for the Phi Delta Epsilon International Medical Fraternity MD Beta Chapter, a Team Leader for Maryland Mentor Corp’s Maryland Math Program and Higher Achievement Middle School Program, a Student Ambassador for the Reed-Yorke Health Professions Advising Office, a Volunteer in Terps for Change and Food Recovery Network, a Guided Study Sessions Leader for Cell Biology, and the DEI chair for the Student Alumni Leadership Council. A recipient of the Integrated Life Sciences Honors College citation, Arjun is passionate about research in the biological sciences, as he has researched in Dr. Brian Pierce’s lab where he analyzes coronavirus structures and studies cancer stem cells at Dr. Michal Zalzmans lab at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Off campus, Arjun works as a medical scribe for a vascular surgeon clinic, and he hopes to use these experiences to apply to medical school in the future
Ayeesha Fadlaoui
Animal Science
Ayeesha is an Animal Science major and Music Performance minor from Ellicott City, Maryland. At UMD, sheً was part of the Honors Humanities program and has been involved in the figure skating club as a Co-President, the Dean's Student Advisory Council for the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources as a Co-Chair, the Omicron Delta Kappa Leadership Honor Society, and is an ambassador for the College of AGNR. She has also served as an undergraduate research assistant and as a teaching assistant and tutor. After graduating, she hopes to complete a PhD program and pursue a career in biological research.
Bella Rosner
Psychology and Human Development
Bella is graduating with a dual degree in Psychology and Human Development and a minor in Nonprofit Management and Leadership. As a member of the inaugural Human Development Honors Cohort, she completed a thesis exploring relational reasoning in young children. She also earned her citation through the Public Leadership Scholars Program. During her time on campus, Bella held various leadership roles, including serving as an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant in the Department of Psychology, Peer Advisor for the College of Education, and member of the Student Alumni Leadership Council. She was also a founding member and Treasurer of the Human Development Student Association. Bella interned with the UMD Alumni Association and later worked as the Program Assistant for the College of Education’s Office of Advancement. After graduation, Bella plans to work as a researcher in a developmental psychology lab before applying to Ph.D. programs.
Benjamin-Nicolas Enwesi
Computer Science
Benjamin-Nicolas Enwesi is an ACES Honors student, Presidential Scholar, and Computer Science major from Upper Marlboro, MD, dedicated to diversifying STEM and making it more accessible to underrepresented populations. He has held many leadership roles including the President of the National Pan-Hellenic Council, Vice President of Kappa Alpha Psi, Tech Lead for Hack4Impact, and Peer Research Mentor for FIRE, while serving as a mentor through College Bound. He has gained professional experience through software engineering internships at Google and Intuit/Credit Karma and previously served as a Teaching Assistant for CompSciConnect and information systems courses in the business school. Benjamin believes that diversifying STEM is essential for driving innovation and empowering underrepresented communities in technology.
Bridget Fannon
Sociology & Family Science
Bridget is graduating with a dual degree in Sociology and Family Science and is from Bethesda, Maryland. During her time at UMD, Bridget has served as President of the community service fraternity Alpha Phi Omega, was a graduate of the CIVICUS Living and Learning Program, has worked as the Student Assistant for the College Park Scholars program, Civic Engagement for Social Good, and was an involved member of Lean on Me, a student-run mental health text line. She also participated in the Do Good Institute’s Impact Interns program, interned at the nonprofits A Wider Circle and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metropolitan Baltimore, is a member of the Omicron Delta Kappa Leadership honors society Society, and is a recipient of the Selma Tyser Edlavitch Scholarship for outstanding community service in Family Science. After graduation, Bridget plans to pursue a Master’s Degree in Social Work, using the skills and experiences she has gained at UMD to advocate for social issues she is passionate about.
Brooke Ayers
Geospatial Data Science and Anthropology
Brooke Ayers is a Geospatial Data Science and Anthropology double degree from North East, Maryland. She focuses on the intersection of human and environmental interactions, leveraging her knowledge in anthropology and geography to represent these complex relationships. She is currently a student researcher on the TREKS: Trails, Route-making, Ecological Knowledge, and Stewardship project as well as a GIS analyst intern for Harford County Water and Sewer.
Bryant Rivera Cortez
Middle School Math & Science Education
Bryant is a Banneker/Key scholar majoring in Middle School Math & Science Education with a minor in Disability Studies. During his time in Honors he was part of the Design, Cultures, & Creativity living learning program where he completed his capstone project titled The HorCHATa Podcast. Beyond academics, he was a trouper on Gymkana, a TerpsEXCED mentor, a College Success Scholars Team Leader, University Senator, and undergraduate researcher for KidWind. Upon graduating Bryant will be teaching middle school science in Prince Geroge’s County.
Caitriona Wright
Biological Sciences: Microbiology
Cat Wright is a Biological Sciences major with a focus on Microbiology from Kent Island, Maryland. She has been deeply involved in the American Society for Microbiology chapter at UMD as the vice president and in the Department of Resident Life as a Resident Assistant. She has loved her time at UMD and is thankful for all the opportunities the university has given her.
Charvika Minna
Neuroscience
Charvika is a Neuroscience major and FIRE program alumni from Laurel, Maryland. During her time at UMD, Charvika served as the President, Vice President, and SLAC Ambassador of OMSE’s Service Learning Certificate Program (SLC) and Co-President and Treasurer of the Nu Rho Psi (Neuroscience) National Honor Society. Furthermore, Charvika was a Teaching Assistant in four classes; a tutor in SLC; a Research Assistant in the Clinical and Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory; and an active member in the Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honor Society, Mortar Board National Honor Society, OMSE’s Academic Excellence Society, American Medical Student Association, and Pre-Surgical Society. After graduation, Charvika plans to work as a medical assistant before matriculating into medical school and aspires to become a physician who provides adequate care to underserved communities, working to create a more equitable healthcare system.
Comfort Oshagbemi
Government and Politics
Comfort Oshagbemi is a Banneker/Key Scholar majoring in Government & Politics with a concentration in International Relations and minoring in Economics. She completed the Honors Humanities program in UMD's Honors College, where she served as the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer. Comfort is an active member of Promoting Achievement and Diversity in Economics (PADE), a program dedicated to fostering diversity in the Economics field through mentorship and professional development. She has also contributed to the university community as a Peer Advisor at the BSOS Feller Center and a member of the Black Political Society, SISTA, Black Honors Caucus, Global Fellows, and many others.
Ema Rajala
Architecture
Ema is an Architecture major with a LEED Green Associate certificate and has completed two minors; Creative Placemaking and Sustainable Studies. Their natural tendency to drift towards leadership positions is evident in many of the extracurricular activities they attend, having spent a year as Event Coordinator for Maryland Ghostlight Company as well as dedicating time in their final year to be the President, Event Coordinator, and Director for the Maryland Shakespeare Players. While working two jobs, Ema has been able to challenge themselves even further by participating in many of the architecture clubs the school provides; Latinx Architects United, Women in Architecture, and the National Organization of Minority Architecture Students as well as continue to be an active member in the architecture professional fraternity, Alpha Rho Chi. Growing up in a military family let them experience many communities, but found the University of Maryland provided a community to make the strongest connections.
Emily Berman
Hearing and Speech Sciences
Emily Berman is a Hearing and Speech Sciences major with a minor in Human Development from Port Washington, New York. During her time at UMD, she worked as a Program Assistant in Resident Life for three years and served as a peer mentor in the Social Interaction Group Network for All (SIGNA). Emily also conducted undergraduate research in the Language and Cognition Lab, studied abroad, and was a member of Mortar Board and Order of Omega honor societies. After graduation, she plans to pursue a master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology to further her passion for fostering successful communication for all.
Emily R. Condon
Journalism
Emily R. Condon is a journalism major, also graduating with a general business minor from Smith, from New Jersey. During her time at UMD, Emily served various academic and volunteer roles for Merrill College including the 2022-2023 Dean Search Committee undergraduate representative, four year college assembly representative, Merrill Hall of Fame selection committee member, Provost's Student Advisory Board, Enrollment Management Student Advisory Committee, peer mentor, student ambassador, teaching assistant and appointments committee undergraduate representative. This summer she will intern at The Washington Post on their audience strategy team, and she has completed other internships with CNN Washington, NBC News social media and FOX45 News in Baltimore. She graduates as a member of Omicron Delta Kappa leadership society, the president of the Society for Professional chapter, the founding member of the Investigative Reporters & Editors chapter and former philanthropy chair of Sigma Delta Tau sorority.
Erika Holdren
Government & Politics, Concentration: International Relations
Erika is a Spirit of Maryland Award Finalist graduating with a BA in Government & Politics: Concentration in International Relations and a minor in Spanish Literature, Linguistics, and Culture. During her time on campus, Erika has served as the President of the Residence Hall Association, President of the National Residence Hall Honorary, Vice President of the Multiracial Student Union, a peer mentor for the College Park Scholars International Studies Program, and was a member of Omicron Delta Kappa, Global Fellows, Psi Sigma Alpha, Gamer Symphony Orchestra, Pa’lante Dance Company, and Student Government Association. Off campus, she interned for the U.S. House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, Congressional and MD State Representatives, FEMA, START, and the Maryland State Police. Upon graduation, Erika is excitedly staying at UMD to pursue an MS in Geospatial Intelligence!
Ethan Bolinger
Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
Ethan is a Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering Major from Linthicum, Maryland. He has served as the president of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers, was an executive board member of Omega Chi Epsilon Chemical Engineering Honor Society, and performed undergraduate research within the Zierden Lab to improve women's health outcomes. While holding his leadership positions, he has implemented mentoring and tutoring programs to reinforce the learning of underclassmen within engineering. After graduation, Ethan will be pursuing his PhD in Chemical Engineering to continue his research within the drug delivery field.
Grayson Vintz
Finance and Accounting
Grayson has demonstrated exceptional commitment to the Smith School of Business, particularly within the finance community. He has served as an Information Technology Analyst for the Lemma Senbet Fund and is currently the Portfolio Manager and a former executive member of the Smith Investment Fund. Beyond his finance focus, Grayson was Phi Chi Theta's Treasurer, is currently the Co-Chairman of the Smith Dean's Student Advisory Council, and is a member of Omicron Delta Kappa. He will be returning full-time to StepStone Group as a Venture Capital & Growth Equity Analyst.
Helen Wang
Economics and Marketing
Helen is an Economics and Marketing major from Baltimore, Maryland. While at UMD, she has served as the Events & Lectures Chair for Omicron Delta Kappa, Concerts, Lectures, and Funding Director for Student Entertainment Events, and Vice President of Meet Me Behind McKeldin Mall. Helen is also a member of Phi Beta Kappa and graduate of Honors Humanities. Post-graduation, she is excited to continue her education and pursue a JD.
Ijeoma Okoro
Public Health Science
Ijeoma Okoro is a Public Health Science major with a minor in Health, Humanities, and Medicine from Gaithersburg, Maryland. She is a Thurgood Marshall Fellow, a Do Good Accelerator Fellow, and was an on-campus research intern for Maryland ROPTA. She has conducted research at the National Institutes of Health, including the National Human Genome Research Institute and the National Institute on Drug Abuse, focusing on health disparities, substance use, and mental health. She has held leadership roles as Vice President of Mentorship for Sister2Sister, a Teaching Assistant, and a Health Professional Liaison for the Charles R. Drew Pre-Health Society. She has also served on the Commission on Juvenile Justice in Montgomery County, advocating for youth in the justice system. A dedicated scholar, Ijeoma has been awarded 30 scholarships, notably the Pedro Zamora and Davis-Putter scholarships. She is passionate about public health, social justice, mentorship, and healthcare equity. She has presented at national conferences, worked in clinical settings as a Certified Nursing Assistant for five years, and engaged in community-driven initiatives. Her global perspective was further shaped by studying abroad in São Paulo, Brazil, examining racism as a public health crisis.
Imaan Shikoh
School of Public Policy
Imaan Shikoh is graduating with a B.A. in Public Policy and a minor in Science, Technology, Ethics, and Policy (STEP). Throughout her time at UMD, she has been deeply committed to student advocacy, serving as Co-Director of Student Affairs in Student Government Association, an opinion writer at The Diamondback, and a co-founder of the Asian American Policy Union. Her work has focused on student safety, free speech, and basic needs access. A dedicated student activist, Imaan was appointed to the Joint Presidential and University Senate Task Force on Antisemitism and Islamophobia to combat religious discrimination on campus. Beyond UMD, she has interned at the U.S. House of Representatives and has played an active role in community organizing, including efforts to elect an undergraduate student to the College Park City Council.
Isabella Socha Soares
Government & Politics and Criminology & Criminal Justice
Isabella Bella Socha-Soares is a Criminology & Criminal Justice and Government & Politics major with a minor in Portuguese and Brazilian Studies from Linden, New Jersey. Bella co-founded UMD Students Demand Action to raise awareness about gun violence and works as an research assistant for the UMD President's PROGRESS Initiative. She was a teaching assistant for International Security & Intelligence and Strategic Thinking, AI, and Innovation Power seminars and serves as the Philanthropy & Community Service Chair for Omicron Delta Kappa. Bella also serves as a Student Advocate at the Student Legal Aid Office and is working to be the first lawyer in her family.
Jasmine Hall
Studio Art and American Studies
Jasmine Hall is graduating with a dual degree in Studio Art and American Studies with a minor in Art History. She is from Silver Spring, Maryland and is a member of Omicron Delta Kappa. During her time at UMD, Jasmine has served on the Student Government Association as a Governance Board Justice, worked as a Teaching Assistant for UTerp, been an intern for the Michelle Smith Collaboratory for Visual Culture, and participated in the Maryland Student Legislature. She has had her artwork featured in a variety of university art exhibitions, also having earned academic awards such as the Dean’s Senior Scholar Award and the Mark H. Sandler Endowed Student Experience Award.
Jennifer Mangandi-Sibrian
Bachelor of Science in Architecture
Jennifer Mangandi-Sibrian is an accomplished first-generation student receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Architecture. At the University of Maryland, she has demonstrated remarkable dedication to her community and her discipline. Her leadership roles, including President of Women in Architecture, Academic Peer Mentor, and active membership in the Latinx Student Union and Latinx Architects United, highlight her strong commitment to uplifting others. With a deep passion for Rehabilitative/Healing Architecture, Jennifer is determined to further her education by pursuing a master's degree and becoming a licensed architect, while continuing to share her experiences with prospective students and building an inclusive, collaborative community.
Jerry Shen
Biological Sciences, Mathematics
Jerry Shen is a dual-degree student in General Biology and Statistics with a minor in General Business from Boyds, Maryland. During his four years at UMD, he has served as president for both the American Physician Scientist Association and Science Olympiad, treasurer for the Audubon Student Chapter, vice president of programming for La Plata Hall RHA, and member of SCALE. Within the University, Jerry represents CMNS students on the Provost’s Student Advisory Council, is an undergraduate teaching assistant for organic chemistry, and is an undergraduate researcher at the Losert Lab. After graduation, Jerry is excited to attend medical school where he aims to pursue a career as a physician, connecting his interests in advanced computational data science approaches to solving clinical problems.
Jessica Faby
Accounting
Jessica is an Accounting major from Long Island, New York. Passionate about fraud prevention and education, she helped establish the Justice For Fraud Victims Project at UMD, creating opportunities for students to collaborate on real-world financial fraud investigations with detectives from local police departments, with some cases even going to trial based on the group's findings. She has also served as Vice President of Finance for Pi Sigma Epsilon (a professional business fraternity), Vice President of Membership for the Accounting and Business Association, and is an active member of Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honor Society. Additionally, Jessica was a Sophomore Finance Fellow and contributed to the College Park Scholars Justice and Legal Thought Program community as a Media Intern and Peer Mentor. Upon graduation, she looks forward to pursuing her M.S. in Accounting as a Terp and working to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
Jessica Stanley
Kinesiology
Jessica is earning her bachelor's degree in Kinesiology and plans to pursue a doctoral degree in occupational therapy. She has been actively involved in community service through Terps for Change and Maryland Mentor Corps, focusing on poverty alleviation and improving English and math literacy for ESOL and elementary school students. Jessica has also worked as a developmental disabilities coach with KEEN, served as a TA for Introduction to Kinesiology (KNES200), and mentored pre-health students as co-president of the Pre-Occupational Therapy Association. Outside of campus, she has dedicated time to research, collaborating on projects developing an antidote for CO poisoning at the University of Pittsburgh and assessing the satisfaction of female veterans utilizing mobility devices for their service centered injuries through the Human Engineering Research Laboratories.
John Baldeh
Information Systems, Information Science
John Bolla Baldeh, a first-generation college student and son of Gambian immigrants, is graduating with a double degree in Information Systems at the Robert H. Smith School of Business, with a minor in Public Leadership, and in Information Science with a minor in Information Risk Management, Ethics, and Privacy. As President Emeritus of the Senegalese Gambian Student Association, he expanded digital engagement by 400 percent and organized eight major cultural events, including the association’s first-ever collaborations with Faces of African Muslims at the University of Maryland and a historic SpiceGiving potluck uniting the University of Maryland East African Students Union, People for Tigray, and the Oromo Student Association, fostering connections between students from Jamaica, Tigray, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Sudan, Uganda, Kenya, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Senegal, and The Gambia. His professional work reflects a strong foundation in governance, risk, compliance, and operational resilience, contributing to a $2.4 million fundraising increase for an education-focused non-governmental organization at PricewaterhouseCoopers, developing an Internet of Things-driven inventory management solution using Azure Cloud at Cloudforce as part of the University of Maryland’s first-ever Break Through Tech Sprintern cohort, and leading his team to first place in a General Data Protection Regulation, Service Organization Control, and International Organization for Standardization 27001 consulting competition for an Artificial Intelligence startup during the University of Maryland’s inaugural Winter 2025 Tech Consulting and Analytics program in London, where he also presented an analysis of Macfarlanes' role in the $9.2 billion Norton LifeLock Avast merger. Beyond academics and professional pursuits, John Bolla is a DJ, writer, and part-time ethnomusicologist, bridging disciplines through interviews with NBA 2K game developers, venture capitalists, and critically acclaimed writers and artists in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia Metropolitan area while refining his public speaking, legal analysis, and creative storytelling through extensive research and dialogue with industry professionals, and after graduation, he plans to pursue a Juris Doctor or Master of Laws in Cyber Law, leveraging his expertise in business, information science, and public policy to drive innovation in digital governance, cybersecurity compliance, and global risk management as a trailblazer who zealously champions the underdog.
Kaitlyn Zhou
Public Policy, Family Science
Kaitlyn is graduating with a BA in Public Policy and Family Science, in addition to a citation in Public Leadership. During her time on campus, Kaitlyn has served as the President of Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honors Society, President the Student Alumni Leadership Council, and student ambassador for the Department of Family Science, School of Public Policy, and College Park Scholars. She also worked as a student intern in the Office of the Vice President for University Relations and was an Orientation Advisor her sophomore year. Upon graduation, Kaitlyn will be completing her Master's in Public Policy at UMD and pursuing a career in family and child welfare.
Lily Fleischmann
Public Policy
Lily recently graduated from the University of Maryland, where she earned a degree in Public Policy with minors in Nonprofit Leadership and Innovation & Entrepreneurship. During her time at UMD, she founded Terps for Reproductive Justice, served as president of the School of Public Policy Student Government Association, and participated in the Rawlings Undergraduate Leadership Fellows Program and the College Park Scholars Public Leadership Program. Lily's professional experiences include internships with the Office of Barack and Michelle Obama, Malala Fund, the National Council of Jewish Women, and the office of Senator Raphael Warnock. Lily loves hiking and spending time outdoors, and never says no to sushi!
Lijon Frances Guiyab
Biochemistry
Lijon is a Biochemistry major with an Asian American Studies minor from Kingsville, Maryland, and has participated in the Integrated Life Sciences Honors College. During her time at the university, she has been vice president of Students Against Skin Cancer, liaison officer for Pre-Surgical Society, team leader and mentor through Maryland Mentor Corps, member of Omicron Delta Kappa, an undergraduate teaching assistant, and research assistant investigating both podocin, a kidney protein, and SARS-CoV-2. After graduation, Lijon plans to take a gap year and work as a medical assistant before matriculating into medical school.
Olivia Ryder
Public Policy
Olivia is a Public Policy BA/MPP student from Gaithersburg, Maryland who hopes to work in social policy and expand access to reproductive health services across the country. On campus, Olivia co-founded and served as Vice President and Social Media Director of Students for Reproductive Justice, co founder and Program Coordinator for CP Plan B, the Graduate Social Director, Undergraduate Social Director, and Student Ambassador for the School of Public Policy, Vice President of Programming for the Residence Hall Association, and on the Programming Council for Zeta Tau Alpha. She earned her College Park Scholars citation in Public Leadership, was selected for the Maryland Service Scholars Program and Federal Fellows program, a current Do Good Accelerator Fellow and is a member of leadership honor society Omicron Delta Kappa. During her time at UMD, she was a Legislative Intern for Congressman Jamie Raskin, Intern in Governor Wes Moore’s Executive office, Intern for the Do Good Institute, and a Research assistant for Reproductive Justice Maryland as a part of her master’s capstone project.
Lora Abuobaid
Chemistry
Lora is a Chemistry major and Humanities, Health, and Medicine minor from Rockville, Maryland on the pre-medicine track and is interested in the intersectionality of science and humanities within medicine. She loves to work with kids and volunteered with the activity coordinators at the Children’s National Hospital’s Healing Garden, where she had the opportunity to create and provide “Science with Lora” STEM activities with patients and their families. She also founded and led Students Against Skin Cancer, an organization on campus that spreads awareness of skin cancer, provides students with sunscreen samples, donates sunscreen to nearby homeless shelters, and has been working on implementing sunscreen dispensers and prohibiting tanning devices on campus. Lora also loves mentoring and teaching and volunteered as a CMNS Recruitment Ambassador as well as spent 3 semesters as a Guided Study Sessions leader for BSCI222: Principles of Genetics, one of her favorite courses.
Mary Samokhvalova
Finance and Accounting
Mary Samokhvalova is a Finance and Accounting double major from Ellicott City, MD. During her time as a student, Mary served as President and then Adviser of UMD’s premier financial literacy education organization the Collegiate Financial Management Association (CFMA), IT Analyst for UMD’s Lemma Senbet Undergraduate Endowment Fund, the Women in Finance Mentorship Program, and the Design Cultures and Creativity Honors Program. She was awarded the University System of Maryland Board of Regents 2023 Student Excellence Scholarship in the Leadership and Advocacy category for achievements at the CFMA and advocated for financial literacy education as a selected speaker at the University System of Maryland Student Forum 2024. Upon graduation, Mary will be starting her career at T. Rowe Price as an Equity Research Associate Analyst.
Mason Minus
Government and Politics
Mason Minus is a student leader who values community. Through his work as the former President of the Black Student Union, Co-Chair of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the SGA, and Leader in the Student Success Initiative, Mason has dedicated his college experience to bringing all members of the student body together regardless of their background. Mason's passions are also invested in the arts and he exercised his love for performing by composing and co-writing a theatrical production for Black History Month and portraying Gab in the Clarice Production, Hip Hop Anansi. He aspires to combine his passions for leadership and creativity in his pursuit of becoming a Lawyer, Actor, Activist, and Influencer who advocates for underrepresented communities.
Matthew Williams
Biological Sciences: General Biology
Matthew is from Sykesville, Maryland, and will be graduating with a B.S. in General Biology and a minor in Science, Technology, Ethics, and Policy (STEP). During his time at UMD, he has served as president of Delta Epsilon Mu, counselor for Camp Kesem, research assistant in the Herberholz Crustacean Lab, recovery leader with Food Recovery Network, and as a tutor for the Petey Greene Program. Matthew was also awarded the Honors Research Gran and the Maryland Summer Scholars Award. Additionally, he was awarded the Katy Betinger Service Award at the end of his two-year CIVICUS Living & Learing Program. He will be pursuing a career as a physician specializing in pediatric care.
Max Filliben
Classical Languages and Literatures
Max hails from Gaithersburg, Maryland, and he will be graduating with a Classics major and a Statistics minor. A graduate of the Honors Humanities LLP, Max used opportunities within the program to write music which he has performed at campus events and for which he won a Keystone project award. He won a Portz Prize for Outstanding Honors Students for his contributions to the program both within it and outside as a Resident Assistant in the Honors Humanities dormitory. As a student in the College of Arts and Humanities, Max represented the Classics department on the Dean’s Advisory Board, and he participated in the ARHU Ambassadors program.
Michelle Rodriguez
Public Health Science
Michelle, a proud Mexican and first-generation student from Bowie, MD, is graduating with a B.S. in Public Health Science. She served on the inaugural Dean’s Undergraduate Student Advisory Council for the School of Public Health and was a Representative on the University Senate’s Committee on Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion, as well as a University Honors Peer Academic Leader. Beyond campus, she has worked as a Community Health Worker, providing resources to underserved communities, and has interned with the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Energy, and the National Hispanic Medical Association. After graduation, she will pursue a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology at the University of Maryland, focusing on advancing data-driven solutions to address health inequities in the Latinx community.
Moumita Afrin
Biological Sciences: Physiology and Neurobiology; Anthropology
Moumita Afrin is a graduating senior from Ellicott City, Maryland with a double degree in Biological Sciences and Anthropology and a minor in Humanities, Health, and Medicine. During her time at UMD, she received the Outstanding Achievement award from the Environment, Technology, and Economy Scholars program, served as President of UNICEF at UMCP, Journal Club Coordinator with Grey Matters, Subcommittee Chair with the Student Health Advisory Committee, Operations Director for The Petal Project, Teaching Assistant for introductory biology courses, and a Peer Mentor with the College of CMNS. Besides academics, she enjoys hiking, baking, listening to music, and spending time with her friends!
Natali Palacios
Human Development
Natali Palacios is from Hyattsville, MD, and will be graduating with a B.S. in Human Development and a Minor in Spanish Heritage Language and Latino/a Culture. During her time at UMD, she has served as a Peer Advisor for the College of Education, President of the Human Development Student Association, member of the Undergraduate Student Assembly, member of the College of Education Programs, Curricula, and Courses (PCC), and intern at the Office of Student Services. She is also president of Kappa Lambda Xi Multicultural Sorority, Inc. Off Campus she has interned at the Library of Congress as an Indigenous Studies Digital Collections Virtual Intern and at the United States Department of Agriculture as a Human Resources Intern. After graduation, she will pursue her Master’s in International Education Policy at the University of Maryland to follow her goal of becoming an International Student Advisor.
Navleen Kaur
Neuroscience
Navleen Kaur is a senior neuroscience major with a focus on cellular, molecular, and physiological neuroscience from Howard County, Maryland. Navleen has a strong passion for healthcare, research, and service, with a keen interest in leveraging her leadership skills to advocate for the underprivileged. In her time at the University of Maryland, she has explored these interests through her role as an undergraduate research assistant with the Language, Experience, and Development (LEAD) Lab, where she investigated the role of early childhood language input on the development of language, executive functioning, and social cognition neural networks. She also served as the president of the Maryland Bhangra Dance team, was a Guided Study Sessions leader for general chemistry I and II, a medical information officer for Hearts for the Homeless, and a member of Delta Phi Omega Sorority, Inc. In the future, she plans to pursue a career in medicine.
Paige Boyland
Kinesiology
Paige Boyland is an undergraduate student from Gaithersburg, MD graduating with a Bachelor’s in Science in Kinesiology; Paige will be the first college graduate in her family to pursue medical school after graduation. Passionate about global health and community service, during her time at UMD, Paige was a College Park Scholar in the Life Sciences Scholars Program in which she became a peer mentor and scholars ambassador and has also served various leadership roles in the Global Medical Brigades chapter of UMD, the Phi Delta Epsilon MD Beta chapter, and as a Resident Assistant. In addition, she was also a puppy sitter for the Guide Dog Foundation with Terps Raising Pups, a tutor for the International Rescue Committee with Peer to Peer, a research assistant for the Vascular Kinetics Lab with the Fischell Department of Bioengineering, a teaching assistant for Anatomy and Physiology laboratories with the College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences, a Shock Trauma Volunteer at the University of Maryland Medical Center, an America Red Cross Volunteer at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, and a Research Intern at The National Institutes of Health. Paige is leaving UMD with immense gratitude for all the opportunities and communities she connected with on and off-campus while being a Terp; She is elated about what the future has in store for her post-grad when she matriculates to medical school and beyond.
Paige Loftus
Criminal Justice/Criminology
Paige is from Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania and will be graduating with a major in Criminal Justice with minors in Philosophy and Law & Society. During her time on campus she has been Vice President of Event Planning for BridgeUMD, Administrative Assistant to TerpsEXCEED, Teaching Assistant for the College of Behavior and Social Science for courses on criminal law and human trafficking, and Tutor with the Maryland Mentor Corps. Off campus she has interned with the Public Defender Service for D.C. and volunteered with A Grateful Mind helping answer crisis calls to find aid for individuals facing homelessness. She aspires to commit her professional career to helping individuals in crisis situations.
Rameen Aamir
Public Health Science
Rameen Aamir, a graduating student from Baltimore, MD, is earning her B.S. in Public Health Science. Dedicated to her campus community, she has served as President of Mu Delta Alpha Sorority, Inc., Co-Founder/Co-President of Youth in Public Health, a University Learning Assistant for Anatomy and Physiology II, and a research assistant for the Social Policy Impact on Reproductive Events (SPIRE) Study, which evaluates the impact of health policies across the U.S. She also earned her Honors Citation through the University Honors, Honors College as a member of House Shaula. After graduation, she plans to apply to medical school, striving to become a doctor who breaks down communication barriers between patients and physicians, ensuring every individual receives the care they deserve.
Raquel Chaupiz
Public Health Science
Raquel Chaupiz is a Public Health Science major with a minor in Spanish at the University of Maryland. She is deeply involved in leadership roles, serving as the President of Partners in Health Engage, a legislator in the Student Government Association, a Peer Research Mentor for the First Year Innovation and Research Experience (FIRE), and a member of ODK. Raquel also served as a Resident Assistant and the Captain and Social & Fundraising Chair for Pa'lante Latin Dance Company. In her current role as a volunteer Firefighter/EMT at the College Park Volunteer Fire Department, she is contributing to mapping buildings to assist in emergency scenarios and researching emergency medical resource needs in Prince George’s County and the greater College Park area.
Reagan Michelle Armstrong
Animal Science - Science/Pre-Professional
Reagan is a Pre-Physician Assistant student from Ewa Beach, Hawaii, pursuing a B.S. in Pre-Professional Animal Science. She is deeply involved in campus life, serving as the Treasurer for the Pre-Physician Assistant Club, a Recovery Leader with the Food Recovery Network, and a Student Library Assistant at the STEM Library. Additionally, Reagan works as a Medical Assistant at a local Internal Medicine clinic and has contributed as an Undergraduate Research Assistant in the Taneyhill Lab, studying neural crest cells to understand their function in human development and disease. Her passion for healthcare and medicine is reflected in her roles as a Teaching Assistant for the Anatomy of Domestic Animal Lab and her commitment to applying her leadership and clinical experiences to a future career as a Physician Assistant.
Reese Alexis Blas Artero
Criminology/Criminal Justice
Reese is a Criminology/Criminal Justice major with minors in Nonprofit Leadership & Social Innovation and Science Tech & Ethics Policy. Hailing from Guam, Reese has consistently remained involved in student advocacy organizations like the Residence Hall Association as an Ellicott Senator, National Residence Hall Honorary, the Association of Big Ten Students as the Executive Director, the University Senate as the Behavioral & Social Sciences Representative, and the Student Government Association as the Undergraduate Studies Representative, Coordinator of Recruitment & Retention, and currently as the Student Body President. Beyond advocacy, Reese has been a member of the Women's Club Volleyball team, the Filipino Cultural Association, and the Asian American Student Union. She has served campus operations on various advisory boards such as the Resident Life Advisory Board, the Campus Transportation Advisory Board, the Title IX Student Advisory Board, Campus Safety Advisory Board, and the Committee for Review of Student Fees which has contributed to Reese's passion for student affairs and creating a campus community built on innovation and care.
Robin Schlesinger
Family Science
Robin is a Family Science major with a double minor in Public Leadership and Law & Society from South Brunswick, New Jersey. During her time on campus, Robin served as the President of the Panhellenic Association, a Fellow for the Karabelle Pizzigati Initiative, President of Phi Upsilon Omicron, Vice President of Programming for Order of Omega, the Chair of On-Campus Outreach for Terps Against Hunger, and a member of Omicron Delta Kappa, the Vice President of Student Affairs Student Advisory Council, and Delta Gamma Sorority. She was named the 2024 Dean's Outstanding Undergraduate Scholar for the School of Public Health, was a finalist for the 2024 Spirit of Maryland Award, served as a teaching assistant, worked as a research assistant, and helped launch a global classroom in partnership with a university in Brazil. Upon graduation, Robin will be pursuing a career in government affairs with a focus on public health lobbying.
Ryan Carr
Public Policy
Ryan Carr is a Public Policy major, and History minor, from Kensington, Maryland. During his time at the Univesity of Maryland, Ryan has been involved in several organizations, including Kappa Omega Alpha professional fraternity, Omicron Delta Kappa leadership honors society, BridgeUMD, and the Student Government Association. He has also gotten involved in the local community through internships at the Montgomery County Council, the Maryland General Assembly, and TerpsVote. After graduation, Ryan plans on attending the University of Maryland for graduate school.
Saanika Mahashetty
Physiology and Neurobiology; Management
Saanika Mahashetty is a Physiology and Neurobiology and Business Management dual-degree student from Boyds, Maryland, and is a student in the University Honors program within the Honors College. Passionate about health equity and medical research, she founded the university’s first collegiate chapter of Trials of Color, advocating for diversity in clinical trials. As part of the Global Fellows program, she works at the FDA’s Health of Women Program, researching gender disparities in medical device testing and their impact on diverse populations. A dedicated musician, Saanika has been a member of UMD Anokha, the university’s South Asian A Cappella group, for all four years of college, serving as captain and music director this past year and leading the group to wins at national competitions.
Salma Tagnaouti
Information Science
Salma is an Information Science major from North Potomac, Maryland. During her time at UMD, she actively contributed to her campus community as Director of Product for Hack4Impact-UMD, a Resident Assistant and Community Assistant within ResLife, and a Resource Specialist at the Student Organization Resource Center. She gained hands-on experience through internships at PricewaterhouseCoopers as a Data and Technology Consulting Intern and at Verizon as a Product Security Intern. Outside of academics, Salma enjoys going to the gym, cooking, and exploring new places in the DMV. No matter where her journey takes her, she is dedicated to making a meaningful impact on her community and those around her.
Sarah Borgos
Criminology; Criminal Justice & Psychology
Sarah is receiving dual degrees in Criminology and Criminal Justice and Psychology; she is originally from Waynesville, Missouri, but moved to Maryland to pursue both programs. During her time on campus she has served as the both the Director of Membership and the Director of Recognition for National Residence Hall Honorary, she is also member the Lavender Leadership Honors Society, a CARE to Stop Violence Outreach Peer Mentor, a volunteer for Terps for Change, the Vice President of Social Programming for Senior Council, a FIRE researcher for the Global Development and Design section and a Teaching Assistant for the Psychology Department. Previously she has been a Coordinator for Terps for Change and a member of the LGBTQ+ History Month Planning Committee.
Sarang Han
Bioengineering
Sarang Han is an A. James Clark Scholar from Ellicott City, MD, pursuing a degree in Bioengineering. She conducted a BIOE honors thesis on preeclampsia modeling, and was involved on campus, as president of the Student Health Advisory Committee, Vice President of Service and Outreach and Academic Affairs for Biomedical Engineering Society, Engineering Representative of Student Government Association, Peer Mentor Captain and representative of Science and Global Changes of College Park Scholars program, and teaching assistant for multiple Bioengineering courses. Post graduation, she intents to become a physician scientist to advance artificial organ development through tissue engineering approach to solve global organ shortage issue.
Shashank Singh
Computer Science
Shashank Pratap Singh is a Computer Science major as well as a Tech Entrepreneurship minor, from Rockville Maryland. Originally from Lucknow, India, he came to UMD as an international student, bringing a unique perspective and a strong desire to contribute positively to the UMD community. During his time at UMD, he served as the Co-President of the International Student Advisory Board, board member of the CMNS Inclusive Excellence Advisory Board and the Vice-President of Student Affairs' Student Advisory Council, advocating for student well-being and inclusivity. As an Undergraduate Teaching Assistant for CMSC216 & CMSC132 and a Community Assistant at La Plata Hall, he fostered supportive environments in both residential life and academics for students. His commitment to academic and extracurricular excellence earned him recognition, including induction into Omicron Delta Kappa, the National Leadership Honor Society, and the Community Assistant of the Year Award.
Sierra Raspa
Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering
Sierra is an electrical and mechanical dual degree engineering student from Baltimore County, MD with a Gemstone Honors College citation. During her years at UMD, she was the lead of self-assembling robotics research team through the Gemstone program, an undergraduate teaching fellow (UTF) for 4 years (ENES100, ENES102, ENEE205, and ENEE150), a member of the electrical team for Testudog Robotics at UMD club, a Women in Engineering (WIE) student advisor, the founder of WIE Code (an onboarding coding bootcamp for incoming women in engineering freshmen) and a member of team TerpAlert in the XFoundry Startup Competition. Additionally, she has developed technical experience through various internships including working on light physics research at the Lawrence Berkely National Laboratory, developing a weather balloon for Quantum Space, performing jitter and control analysis for NASA Goddard, and designing/simulating controllers for power circuitry at RCT Systems. She is very excited to enter the next phase of her life working in industry!
Sophia Vahdatshoar
Public Health Science
Sophia is a Public Health Science major from Clarksburg, MD, graduating with a BS from the School of Public Health. She is dedicated to developing inclusive communities in residence halls with her work as a Multicultural Advocate, and has furthered her passion for social change as a teaching assistant for CHSE228 -- facilitating discussions on multicultural dilemmas. Sophia was also a member of the Civic Engagement for Social Good program, volunteering in service initiatives such as Food Recovery Network and Sustainable Ocean Alliance. Proud of her heritage as an Iranian woman, she is committed to using public health to advance equity and well-being in her community.
Sophia Winner
Government and Politics, Economics
Sophia is from Baltimore, Maryland, and will be graduating with a dual degree in Government and Politics and Economics with a minor in Law and Society. During her time at the University, Sophia has held leadership positions as President of the Maryland Parliamentary Debate Society, President of the Honors Humanities Living Learning Program, Historian of Omicron Delta Kappa, and served as an intern with the Maryland Democracy Initiative. She is the recipient of the Winston Family Honors Best Student Paper Awards, the Lowell Ensel Endowed Keystone Scholarship, and was a finalist for the Spirit of Maryland Award. Sophia currently interns with the Governor’s Office of Crime Prevention and Policy and the Scholars Strategy Network, and hopes to continue to advance progressive policy initiatives to uplift and empower historically disenfranchised communities nationwide.
Steven Mendelson
Biological Sciences
Steven, a Biology major with minors in Business and Sustainability from Rockville, Maryland, completed the College Park Scholars Program and later served as a Scholars Engagement Assistant and Scholars Ambassador. He also worked as a campus tour guide, participated in MEOR, and spent part of his sophomore summer conducting marine biology research in Cape Town, South Africa. After studying abroad in Rome, Steven returned to UMD to further his involvement with the Food Recovery Network and the Student Alumni Leadership Council (SALC). Upon graduating, he will pursue a career in dentistry and attend Penn Dental Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania.
Trisha Reddy
Biological Sciences: Physiology and Neurobiology
Trisha Reddy is a Biological Sciences major in the Integrated Life Sciences (ILS) Honors College, pursuing double minors in Spanish and Sociology. She has dedicated her time at the University of Maryland to fostering community and leadership, serving as President of the Undergraduate Student National Dental Association, President of the Indian Students Association, a Senior Student Ambassador for the Health Professions Advising Office, and an Office Assistant for ILS. Additionally, she conducted research as an assistant in the Hearing Brain Lab and is a member of the Omicron Delta Kappa Leadership Honor Society. Trisha is passionate about mentorship and healthcare accessibility and hopes to continue advocating for these values as a dental student.
Vincent Pham
Computer Engineering
Vincent Pham is a Computer Engineering major in the BS/MS program at the University of Maryland’s Electrical and Computer Engineering Department. Coming from Catonsville, Maryland, he has been deeply involved in campus life, serving as President of IEEE-Eta Kappa Nu Gamma Xi Chapter, Event Coordinator for the ECE Peer Mentoring Program, a Student-Athlete Tutor at the Gossett Student Center, an Engineering Orientation Advisor, and an Undergraduate Teaching Fellow for ENEE101. He is also an active member of multiple organizations, such as the Vietnamese Student Association, Thai Student Association, Terps Racing EV, and the Engineering Video Editing Club. A recipient of several prestigious scholarships, including the Clark Legacy Scholarship and the Charles E. Sydnor III Senatorial Scholarship, Vincent aspires to innovate in the field of computer architecture by designing, verifying, and optimizing processor technologies.
Wayde Parham
Technology and Information Design
Wayde Parham is a first-generation college student from Laurel, Maryland. He is graduating with a degree in Technology and Information Design. During his time at the University of Maryland, he served as Vice President of Finance for the Black Student Union and Vice President of Finance & Operations for Student Entertainment Events (SEE). Upon graduation, Wayde will be working full-time for Amtrak in Philadelphia and pursuing his master’s degree in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI).
Wren Poremba
Computer Science
Wren Poremba (they/them) is graduating with a major in Computer Science and a minor in Philosophy. During their undergraduate career they have served as a president for Lean on Me College Park, an executive director for Hack4Impact-UMD, and the percussion section leader for UMD's Gamer Symphony Orchestra. Outside of campus Wren has interned for Inovalon working on healthcare data analysis as a software engineer and presented research at the ACM Symposium on User Interface Software and Technology (UIST) on how to make virtual reality accessible to blind and low vision users. After graduation Wren hopes to continue using their leadership and technology skills to improve our world and the lives of people in it.
Yara Ayache
Psychology (B.S.) & Public Health Science (B.S.)
Yara Ayache is a Banneker/Key scholar and Integrated Life Sciences (ILS) alum from Clarksville, MD graduating with dual degrees in Psychology and Public Health Science, with double minors in Nonprofit Leadership and Social Innovation and Korean Studies. Throughout her leadership and service spanning various roles and causes including serving as the President, Treasurer, and Events Director of A Worldwide Arabic Resource Effort (AWARE); Fundraising Director and Health Disparities Committee Member of the American Medical Student Association; President and VP of Community Service of Psi Chi International Psychology Honor Society; member of Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honor Society; TA for various courses, a medical assistant; volunteer at the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Ward at UMMC; Animator of a Junior Youth Group (Youth 4 YOUnity); Volunteer Intern and member of the Board of Directors at Austin Asian Impact; and her work with students and audiences locally in PG County, UMD, and worldwide through her podcast and social impact program The Spirit of Success, she is committed to bringing people together to unite in our diversity and sparking positive change in our world. She was a top 10 finalist for the 2024 Spirit of Maryland Award, recipient of the ILS Outstanding Service Award, a 2 time Accelerator Fellow for The Spirit of Success, and a Mini-Grant recipient for AWARE. Passionate about health equity, social justice, and medicine, Yara will begin medical school post graduation, and is determined to continue using her diverse skills, drive, and commitment to working in the spirit of service to evoke meaningful change in our world and empower others to become impactful changemakers.
Zoe Huang
Marketing
Zoe is a marketing major at the Robert H. Smith School of Business where she also plans to pursue her Master's in Management through the Plus 1 program. Originally from Northern Virginia, Zoe is a student athlete on the volleyball team where she participated extensively in Maryland Made, the career and leadership development program for student athletes. Participating in the Kubasik Program, Gosset Fellows, Leadership Academy, InTERPship, Career Exposure Tours in Atlanta and Charlotte, and the B1G Life Series, Zoe became president for the Student Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC), before also becoming Maryland's representative for the Big 10 SAAC.