Maryland Medallion Society Members

Reese Artero

Reese is originally from Guam, and is studying criminology, nonprofit leadership, and science, technology, and ethics policy. As Student Body President and a dedicated policy advocate, Reese champions initiatives in governance, equity, and innovation. She aspires to become a nonprofit consultant and pursue a Doctor of Jurisprudence.

Carter Austin

Carter is pursuing degrees in Mechanical Engineering, Cinema and Media Studies, and Integrated Product Design through the Individual Studies Program. A passionate builder and systems thinker, he has designed immersive VR simulations, led international engineering projects, and contributed to innovative R&D across industries. As President of both the Theta Tau engineering fraternity and oSTEM, he championed inclusive leadership, mentorship, and community-building. He is committed to designing ethical, human-centered technologies that blend creative expression with engineering insight.

Yara Ayache

Yara is pursuing double degrees in Psychology and Public Health Science and minors in Nonprofit and Korean Studies. She is passionate about service, leadership, and advocacy. Driven to advance health equity, cultural competence in healthcare, and serve underserved communities, she will begin medical school post-graduation.

Hannah Breslau

Hannah is from Basking Ridge, New Jersey, enrolled in the dual Bachelor’s and Master of Public Policy program, minoring in Nonprofit Leadership. Hannah serves as the President of Students for Reproductive Justice and works as an Intern for TerpsVote within the Office of Leadership and Community Service-Learning.

Christopher Celarie

Christopher is a Biological Sciences major and Spanish minor on a pre-med track. He has spent much of his time at UMD working in DEI and community service. Whether it’s through a friendly conversation or professional advice, Chris loves supporting others in their professional and academic pursuits.

Jhennifer Celestino Alva

Jhennifer is a first-generation Latine student passionate about health equity, disability inclusion, and culturally competent care. Through mentorship, advocacy, and global experiences, she works to break barriers in education and healthcare, ensuring marginalized communities have equitable access to resources. She strives to create inclusive spaces where all voices are valued.

Sophia D'Alonzo

Sophia is a proud first-generation college student studying Environmental Science & Policy and Political Communication. She is deeply passionate about environmental justice and will pursue environmental law at the University of Maryland Carey School of Law in the fall of 2025.

Lily Fleischmann

Lily recently graduated in December with 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 has interned with the Office of Barack and Michelle Obama, Malala Fund, and the National Council of Jewish Women.

Sarang Han

Sarang is a passionate and visionary leader who empowers others through mentorship, advocacy, and service. Driven by a deep commitment to equity and education, she creates lasting initiatives that uplift communities. She is committed to advocate for student well-being and inspiring the next generation of engineers, where she leads with compassion, resilience, and purpose.

Erika Holdren

Erika is a senior majoring in Government and Politics with a concentration in International Relations. She currently serves as President of the National Residence Hall Honorary and has held leadership roles in the Residence Hall Association, the Multiracial Student Union, and the Gamer Symphony Orchestra. A College Park Scholar and Global Fellows Program participant, Erika has also interned in the U.S. House of Representatives. She has also balanced two on-campus jobs while remaining actively engaged in student life. After graduation, Erika will continue her studies at the University of Maryland, pursuing a Master’s degree in Geospatial Intelligence.

Jahnavi Kirkire

Jahnavi is a Government & Politics - International Relations and Public Policy dual degree student with minors in History and Law & Society. She is a student leader in ODK, Resident Life, and BridgeUMD. Jahnavi is heading to law school this fall and intends to eventually work for the State Department.

Rhiannon Little

Rhiannon is a Criminology and Criminal Justice major and Rhetoric minor from Laurel, Maryland, who successfully completed both the University Honors and Criminology and Criminal Justice Departmental Honors Programs. After graduation, she plans to work as a public defense investigator before attending law school and becoming a public defender.

Abigail Manga

Abigail is majoring in Information Systems from Fort Washington, Maryland. She has served as Senior Council President, President of the National Association of Black Accountants, Alumni & Member Engagement Chair of ODK, and a Resident Assistant, while also participating in the QUEST and Scholars programs.

Mason Minus

Mason is a senior Government and Politics from Silver Spring, Maryland. This Spirit of Maryland recipient is a former President and Vice President of the Black Student Union. He is a Do Good Institute Fellow, Lead Student Advocate in the Student Success Initiative and member of Omicron Delta Kappa. Mason aspires to combine his love for leadership and creativity in his pursuit of becoming a Lawyer, Actor, Activist, and Influencer who advocates for underrepresented communities.

Alyssa Orlando

Alyssa is a Special Education major from Jackson, New Jersey. During her time, she served as a Teaching Assistant, a Tour Guide, and a Peer Advisor for the College of Education. Alyssa also held a variety of positions in Gamma Phi Beta Sorority and the Panhellenic Association.

Bryant Rivera Cortez

Bryant is a Banneker/Key scholar majoring in Middle School Math & Science Education with a minor in Disability Studies. He was part of the Design, Cultures, & Creativity living learning during his time in Honors and upon graduating Bryant intends to teach middle school science in Prince George’s County.

Robin Schlesinger

Robin is a Family Science major with a double minor in Public Leadership and Law & Society from South Brunswick, New Jersey. She is heavily involved in numerous organizations on campus, serves as a teaching assistant, worked as a research assistant, and assisted in launching a new global classroom.

Helen Wang

Helen is from Baltimore County, Maryland pursuing a double degree in Economics and Marketing. She serves as the Concerts Director for Student Entertainment Events, Events & Lectures Chair for ODK, and Vice President of Meet Me Behind McKeldin Mall. She is passionate about fostering community through the power of music.

Xiao-Lian Warren

Xiao-Lian is majoring in Public Health Science with a minor in Asian American Studies. After graduating, she plans to pursue a dual degree in Public Health and Physician Assistant studies. She aims to address health disparities and advocate for marginalized communities through compassionate care.

Kaitlyn Zhou

Kaitlyn is from California, Maryland, graduating with a B.A. in Public Policy and Family Science. Having great Terp pride, Kaitlyn served as Omicron Delta Kappa President, Student Alumni Leadership Council President, and Ballet Company M Treasurer. Upon graduation, Kaitlyn will be completing her Master's in Public Policy at UMD.