As part of the 2025 Student Life Awards, we're proud to feature student leaders from across campus that were nominated and won the various leadership awards for their contributions to and leadership of the University community. These students/student groups were nominated by their peers, faculty and staff and were selected from outstanding candidate pools.

We congratulate them and all of our award nominees and thank them for their accomplishments during the past year!

A special thanks to our award sponsors and to Tiffany Hoxie and Afra Hassan Pour for their hard work in organizing and coordinating the 2024 Student Life Awards Program.

Additional thanks to the members of our Student Life Awards Selection Committees for their support of student leadership on campus:

Terrence Abney | Office of Residential Life
Sarah Bernhardt | Office of Leadership & Organizational Development
Miguel Colon | Office of Community Outreach
Kimberly Curry | Graduate School
Mitchell Davis | Office of Residential Life
Sarah Durning | Office of Major Events and Programs
Jose Garcia | Center for Fraternity & Sorority Development
Drew Granucci | Office of Admissions
Afra Hassan Pour | Office of Leadership & Organizational Development
Jonathan Heiden | Office of the President
Sonja Langford | Office of Leadership & Organizational Development
Kaitlyn Macdonald | Office of Residential Life
Jose Maldonado | Trustee Organizations
Meg Marshall | Office of Community Outreach
Lyndsey Masterson | Student Health and Wellness
Jen Morenus | Puerto Rican Latin American Cultural Center
Elizabeth Moy | Office of Leadership & Organizational Development
Krista O’Brien | Office of Trustee Organizations
Joanna Rivera Davis | Office of First Year Programs
Zack Schultz | Office of Leadership & Organizational Development
James Walker | Office of Residential Life

Brianna McCalla is a Junior with an Individualized major titled the Epidemiological Focus in Disease Occurrence, Health Determinants, Application with minors in Healthcare Management and Molecular & Cellular Biology. In her recent role as VP of Administration for SUBOG, she analyzed the efficacy in the forums of engagement with the student body and was a persistent source of support. She utilized social media as a tool to connect with more students. Her focus has always and will continue to be access and she recognizes her education as a pivotal part of getting her to the places where she is meant to serve.

After graduation, she plans to continue her education; eventually becoming a clinician immersed in public health research and the frameworks of biopolitical policy. The desire to take on many roles has led to her involvement in several organizations such as Black UCONN Collective, TedXUConn, HuskyTHON DEI Committee and many others.

Lucy is a Management and Engineering for Manufacturing major with a minor in Entrepreneurship and Tech Innovation. Through her work at Innovate Labs, Lucy enjoys helping students to learn about emerging technologies and how they can be used to help students in their future jobs. Lucy's biggest passion is for sustainability and sustainable technologies. In her downtime, she enjoys being the treasurer of Tabletop Gaming Club and playing board games with her fellow students and friends.

Zachary Joseph Boudah is an advocate, leader, and scholar-practitioner graduating with a B.A. in English from the University of Connecticut in May 2025. His undergraduate career was defined by a relentless commitment to elevating the voices of the 5,000+ students attending UConn’s regional campuses. At UConn-Avery Point, he was elected Vice-President of student government before serving two terms as Student Body President. He led initiatives to strengthen campus life and fought food insecurity, such as helping to launch the Husky Harvest Food Pantry. Zach stewarded over $100,000 in student fees to support 100+ unique events and projects, including streamlined club funding, a Safe-Sex Product Distribution Project, and partnerships with Mystic Aquarium.  

Zach played a key role in driving structural reform — tripling student government membership and helping shift university culture to better value regional campuses. In August of 2023, he became the first regional campus to serve on the University Senate, where he authored and passed University By-Law amendments drastically increasing regional representation in the UConn administration. He also co-organized, spoke, and testified at three delegations to the Connecticut General Assembly, advocating for greater state funding for higher education. Beyond advocacy, Zach founded and managed a Peer Mentor Program with CAPS, designed and taught a First Year Experience course, and served on multiple university committees, including Enrollment, Curriculum and Courses, Multi-Campus, and Student Trustee Elections. He also secured a $4,000 Change Grant to expand programming for first-generation students, led campus tours as a Husky Ambassador, and worked as a Lead Student Tutor, Teaching Assistant, and Writing Fellow.  

Zach plans to spend his life advocating for educational access and equity, especially for underrepresented and marginalized communities. In Fall 2025, he will begin pursuing an M.A. in Higher Education and Student Affairs.  

— “I am honored to receive the Donald L. McCullough Leadership Award. To receive the University’s highest student leadership award as a non-Storrs student is a clear indication that UConn’s commitment to advancing regional campuses is stronger than ever. I am deeply grateful to all who have contributed to this ongoing culture shift!” 

“I am a disciplined student who has endured hardships and overcame them; I want to inspire the youth and continue to keep showing people that a minor setback is not the end of the road.”

"I am extremely thankful for receiving the Emerging Leaders Award. As a first-year student, it feels so refreshing and hopeful to be supported for my efforts and it encourages me to do more for the UConn community.  I have enjoyed every step of the way, and I am confident I will leave more footprints at UConn. Go Huskies!"

Isabella Helgeson (Izzy) is a senior undergraduate majoring in Physiology and Neurobiology. She is a member of the Special Program in Medicine, the BOLD Women’s Leadership Network, and the Honors Program. As a Student Program Director in Community Outreach, Izzy has directed three Alternative Break programs over the past two years.  

In August 2024, she returned to Upala, Costa Rica, to develop Seguras (Safe Girls/Women), a community-driven research and action initiative. Building on the relationships established as an Alternative Break Trip Director, she designed and led the project as part of her BOLD Scholar project. Collaborating with Reto Juvenil, Jasmines’ EBAIS, the Ministry of Education, the Upala Women’s Office, and the local government, Izzy led the team that surveyed 2,000 women to assess health needs and attitudes. The data gathered was used to design targeted programs and resources in an area where women's health is underserved. Under her leadership, Seguras distributed over 1,600 consciously-designed resources—including reusable menstrual products, books on women’s legal rights, and domestic violence support materials—while facilitating workshops led by professionals across Upala to empower women with knowledge and support. 

My name is Kate Koval, and I am honored to be a recipient of the Individual Husky Pride Award. As a senior majoring in Psychology, I have dedicated myself to both academic excellence and fostering a strong, inclusive community. Serving as the Coordinator for Husky Ambassadors, I lead a team that represents UConn to prospective and admitted students, ensuring they feel welcomed and inspired to join the Husky family. Additionally, as a Senior Resident Assistant, I mentor fellow RAs and support first-year students in their transition to college life. Leadership, mentorship, and community-building are at the heart of everything I do, and I am proud to contribute to the spirit and values that define UConn. 

Receiving this award means so much to me, as it motivates me to continue making a positive impact in my community. After graduation, I plan to pursue a degree in nursing, combining my passion for helping others with my background in psychology. Outside of academics and leadership, I love cooking Ukrainian food, which allows me to stay connected to my culture and share it with those around me. 

I am a graduating senior in the nursing program who is additionally taking pre-medical classes. I came to the United States for the first time in 2021 when starting college. In the Nursing House Learning Community and later in Learning Communities at large, I found my home far away from home through various involvements and leadership opportunities with the latest being a Supervisory Teaching Assistant for the Floor Mentoring class. Through these opportunities, I also met a fellow international student who graduated in 2024. Together with her, I created the idea and founded the Undergraduate International Student Association (UISA), a registered-student organization on campus, to help those find a home and a community to belong to at UConn who do not have a family in the United States when they first arrive as undergraduate international student—as both of us did. Thus, I was able to utilize the leadership opportunities given to me through established programs on campus, to create an organization which would serve a new purpose. I am grateful for all the opportunities I had at UConn because they influenced who I am today.   

In the future, I would love to give back to the UConn community in many ways. This year, I will be applying to medical school and pursuing my career as a surgeon to work internationally. I think giving back to UConn is possible from all over the world, and I think UConn will call on us with the right opportunities to provide the support to future generations of students. In my free time, I enjoy going for walks—especially around the lakes on campus—, going for coffee in a nice little café, and exploring towns throughout Connecticut. 

Cameron Reid is a first-year journalism major at the University of Connecticut, and she is developing her skills in investigative reporting, media ethics, and social advocacy. She has been actively involved in the Leadership House Learning Community and HuskyTHON, using her leadership skills to foster connections and support meaningful causes. Through her future work in media and social impact initiatives, Cameron hopes to amplify important stories and create positive change. She is dedicated to growing as a leader and making a lasting impact through her writing, social media, and campus involvement.

Alexandria Silva is a senior double majoring in Communications and Psychology. Her college experience began as a member of the EcoHouse Learning Community, enjoying the camping trip that jump-started the year along with the numerous trips to Farm Friday. She later served as the Communications Chair of the Learning Community Executive Council (LCEC), cultivating a social media presence that reached an array of individuals from current to alum LC students. Currently, she serves as the Vice President of the LCEC, working with the President to continue improving the student experience for LC students. Leading with passion for the LC program, consideration of student voices, and consistency of traditional events, she ensures that she gives as much to the program that has given her so much.

Outside the LCEC, she is a student worker for the LC Office, supporting the staff and faculty. She also is an Academic Achievement Center Intern, the My First Year Story Podcast Vice President, and a 2024 Leadership Legacy member. The LC community has given her the space to grow as a leader, challenging herself to make change and teach her passion for advocacy. She will get her master's in public policy, aspiring to impact communities!

Jillian Floyd is a first-generation, third-year student in the Psychological Sciences program, currently pursuing her bachelor's, and hopes to obtain her master's in counseling to become a licensed therapist. She is dedicated to helping individuals find the importance of self-advocacy. Jillian has been inspired through working with individuals with disabilities as well as being a part of the Black Sisters Optimizing Unity and Leadership (BSoul) Learning Community for two years during her time at UConn. These opportunities in addition to other experiences sparked her interest to inform and empower others through her future work as a therapist. Personal growth is especially important to her as she has had to overcome many obstacles, promoting self-empowerment is her passion.

"I am extremely honored and excited to have received this award! This has motivated me to continue with my efforts and reaffirms my commitment to advocacy, human rights, and prioritizing well-being. I will continue my journey to becoming a licensed therapist and aim to refer to these values in all aspects of life.”

Founded at the University of Connecticut in Spring 2011, the Alarmingly Outstanding Alpha Omicron Chapter of Sigma Lambda Upsilon/Señoritas Latinas Unidas Sorority, Inc. is a sisterhood built on Sincerity, Loyalty, and Unity. They are committed to academic excellence, hermandad, and meaningful community service. The chapter proudly carries out the organization’s mission to empower women and uplift marginalized communities through intentional contributions and unwavering dedication.

As part of the national sorority established in 1987, the Alpha Omicron Chapter serves as a vessel of opportunity and growth for its members and the greater UConn community. Their work centers on fostering personal and professional development, while making tangible impacts through programs like the LADYS and PEARLS mentorship initiatives. Their national philanthropy, literacy, guides many of their outreach efforts, advocating for accessible education and promoting reading and writing as tools for empowerment.

Despite being Latina-based, Sigma Lambda Upsilon is proudly inclusive, welcoming women of all backgrounds, cultures, and identities. The chapter’s commitment to service is rooted in the belief that everyone can inspire change. Whether organizing campus events, mentoring local youth, or advocating for educational equity, the Alpha Omicron Chapter strives to create an everlasting legacy of impact both on and off-campus.

“Winning the Organization Community Service Award is a testament to our chapter’s relentless passion and dedication. We are honored to be recognized for our efforts, and we remain committed to serving our communities while maintaining true to our organization's mission and values!”

The Student Alumni Association is a student-led organization that plans traditions and creates networking opportunities for all students. From Ooze ball to Jonathan's Birthday Party to Networking Nights, we focus on making each student's experience the best it can be. Beyond events, SAA is a wonderful place to make friends and connections on campus!

Rachel V. Tucker is a Ph.D. Candidate in the Department of Communication at the University of Connecticut. Over the past four years, she has served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant for several courses, including the Principles of Public Speaking, Research Methods in Communication, and Interpersonal Communication. She is also the Program Assistant for the FastTrack Master’s Program and Graduate Student Representative for the Undergraduate Studies Committee in the Department of Communication. Through her role as a Graduate Teaching Assistant, she aims to provide students with an impactful learning experience that will remain with them long after they have left the classroom.

The Medical Clinic Club is a student-run organization on campus that partners with the nonprofit, Remote Area Medical, to bring free medical, dental, and vision care to Willimantic once a year. Our small team of 9 helps fundraise the $30,000 clinic operating budget and organize meals and transportation to our over 400 volunteers. With the help of our sponsors, RAM, and our volunteers, we have provided over $285,000 in free care to patients since our first clinic in 2024.

Jaydyn Jacklitsch is a second-year nursing student from Harriman, New York. Jaydyn is passionate about fostering a supportive and safe campus environment that prioritizes students' mental and physical well-being. She is a member of Alpha Omicron Pi and the former Director of Lifetime Engagement. She plays an active role in creating and cultivating an inclusive and caring community within UConn, offering comfort and encouragement to peers during challenging times while connecting them with additional support when needed. Jaydyn remains dedicated to staying vigilant and observant to protect the safety and health of her peers and the UConn community.

Ryan Engels is a sophomore majoring in political science with a minor in geography. A committed advocate for civic engagement, he has demonstrated a deep dedication to public service at the local, state, and federal levels. As the Founder and Executive Director of the Connecticut Youth Political Advocacy Center (CYPAC), Ryan leads efforts to expand youth access to government and policymaking. Under his leadership, CYPAC has grown to over 90 members, launched a statewide internship database, developed voter education resources, and established a mentorship program connecting students with public officials. Beyond his nonprofit work, Ryan serves as a Senator in the Undergraduate Student Government and as President of Sigma Alpha Epsilon at UConn. He has also interned in the U.S. House of Representatives, the Connecticut General Assembly, and the Connecticut Office of the Secretary of the State, working on legislative research, constituent advocacy, and election processes. Ryan remains actively involved in his hometown of Westbrook, Connecticut, where at 18, he became the town’s youngest Commissioner, serving for 2-years on the Inland Wetlands & Watercourses Commission. He also influenced policy as a Youth Outreach Advisor to the Coastal Resiliency Committee, addressing climate challenges in coastal communities and ensuring young voices had a seat at the table. Ryan is also the youngest member of the Westbrook Democratic Town Committee. With a passion for law and public service, Ryan aspires to a career blending advocacy, governance, and legal expertise to advance equity and empower underrepresented communities, such as young people. “This award is an honor, recognizing my dedication to public service and civic engagement. It reaffirms my commitment to government accessibility, voter education, and community advocacy. This recognition motivates me to continue working toward meaningful policy solutions and empowering young people to engage in public service." – Ryan M. Engels

Sara Dahlen is the Learning Community Program Coordinator for the Office of First Year Programs & Learning Communities. A proud Connecticut native and UConn alum, she earned her M.A. in Educational Psychology with a focus on Counselor Education in May 2023. In addition to her rewarding work with first-year students, she oversees nine student employees, emphasizing their personal and professional development.

Sara takes a holistic approach to mentorship, blending skill-building with individualized support to help each student thrive. She fosters a positive, collaborative environment where students feel empowered to grow, gain confidence, and prepare for their future careers.

Krithika Santhanam is a senior dual degree student in Molecular and Cell Biology and Individualized: Health Policy and Racial Disparities. Krithika is committed to the power of mentorship and creating honest, vulnerable, and brave spaces where students can learn about the lived experiences of others and explore their passions. As President of the Learning Community Executive Council and Learning Community Council, she works with students to identify immediate needs within the student body and creating initiatives that target those needs with students at the forefront. She recently led a Community Sustainability Alternative Break Program to Puerto Rico through Community Outreach where students were exposed to a new community and learned how to disseminate their new knowledge to combat the dominant narrative. Krithika strongly believes in the power of peer mentorship and advancing student support spaces on campus by improving access to resources and knowledge to fit individual student needs. If you need to find Krithika, she is probably on the fourth floor of Rowe as a Health Professions Peer Ambassador or Peer Research Ambassador talking with students.

In her time at UConn, Krithika’s leadership journey has involved many different paths. She is a BOLD Scholar, Co-President of Pre-Medical Society, previous FYE Mentor for the Women in STEM Learning Community, and 2024 Leadership Legacy member. She aspires to work as an internal medicine physician after graduation and eventually opens her own primary care clinic. She loves to try new coffee shops and always has a coffee in hand!

Terrence B. Abney is a dedicated higher education professional with experience in coaching, residential life, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. He has a strong background in program development, student engagement, and leadership training, with a passion for mentoring and advising students. Terrence has served as an advisor for multiple student organizations and currently advises UConn Club track and Field and UConn Club Running Teams. He actively supports student success through leadership development and community engagement and is committed to fostering inclusive learning environments that empower students to thrive.

"Dive into the action and excitement at the UConn Table Tennis Club! We are more than just a sports club; we are a vibrant community where diversity is celebrated, and fun meets competition. Participate in our thrilling tournaments for a chance to win fantastic prizes and enjoy great food and camaraderie at our events. Whether you are looking to sharpen your skills or simply have a good time, our club offers a friendly and inclusive environment for everyone. Join to be part of the fun, where every game is an opportunity to make new friends and create unforgettable memories!"

Andrew McCotter is a native of New Hartford, Connecticut. After earning his degree, he joined the United States Marine Corps and currently serves in the reserves as a Platoon Commander with the 4th Assault Amphibious Battalion in Jacksonville, Florida.

Andrew is a first-year student at UConn Law, aspiring to pursue a career in federal criminal law after graduation. At UConn Law, he re-established the Veterans & Armed Forces Legal Outreach Society (VALOR) and serves as its president. He is also an active member of the Moot Court Board and the Mock Trial Team.

Born in Tampa, Florida in 1997. Graduated Hillsborough High School #3 out of 269 back in 2015. Enlisted and served in the Navy from 2015-2021 as a Nuclear Electrician's Mate and served on the USS South Dakota from 2018-2021. Upon separation from the Navy, he got accepted into UCONN, now in his 3rd year is working towards a dual degree in Physics, Applied Mathematics, and minors in Computer Science and Astrophysics.