As part of the 2026 Student Leadership 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

Hailey DeWalt is a senior majoring in Molecular and Cell Biology with a minor in Healthcare Management and Insurance Studies. Her undergraduate experience has been shaped by opportunities to mentor others and create spaces where students feel empowered to express themselves and pursue their unique passions. She carries this commitment into her roles as a Peer Research Ambassador, Health Professions Peer Advisor, and Vice President of Pre-Med Society.
Beyond her passion for mentorship, Hailey developed a strong interest in exploring the intersection of religion and health after working as a medical assistant in a primary care office serving largely religious communities. Wanting to better understand this connection, she became a research assistant in a psychology lab studying religion, spirituality, and health. Moved by this work, she recognized the importance of bringing these conversations beyond academic spaces and went on to receive a Change Grant to create a podcast, The Cultural Blind Spot. Through this platform, she amplifies student voices and personal stories about how religion and culture shape healthcare experiences, with the goal of fostering empathy and cultural awareness in future healthcare professionals.
Following graduation, Hailey plans to attend medical school. While she is still exploring specific specialties, she is especially drawn to pediatrics and is passionate about creating inclusive healthcare spaces where patients feel empowered to make decisions that align with their personal and religious beliefs.

Julia Ghagare is a senior Marketing major, Management minor, and Honors Scholar. She is a first-generation American college student and the eldest daughter in an immigrant family from Mexico and India. When the student body shared feedback that they wanted to see more diverse events from SUBOG, Julia made it her mission to deliver. As the Outreach Chair of Marketing Strategy in SUBOG, Julia organized 5 collaborative events with BAILE (Bringing Awareness into Latino Ethnicities), PorColombia, Peruvian Student Association, and Japanese Student Association, attracting several hundred students to learn more about the various cultures represented here at UConn. In her role, also Julia managed SUBOG’s social media accounts with 16k+ followers, created engaging content attracting 10k-55k views, and oversaw a $20,000 budget for advertising and programming to drive attendance at all SUBOG events. She revived “World of Food” this year to showcase cuisine and culture from 5 different countries on 5 different continents, bringing 300+ students together to enjoy the event. As President of UConn Women in Business, Julia learned the career interests of 200+ members and invited 70+ speakers to network with the organization. This year, Julia led as Director of the 2nd annual UConn Women in Business Conference 2026: Her Seat at the Table. The event hosted 310 attendees to celebrate Women’s History Month and the importance of diversity at the “table” as women leaders of various identities and industries. Julia is grateful to the selection committee for this honor and thanks the student leaders in the Tier 2 Cultural Organizations, Women in Business E-Board, and SUBOG Board for helping her bring these collaborations and large-scale events to life. 

Phoenix Harper is a senior at the University of Connecticut, majoring in Business Management, with plans to attend law school this fall. She currently serves as President of the UConn NAACP, University Senator, and Chief Diversity Officer within the Undergraduate Student Government. Phoenix is also a Collegiate Member of the Eastern Region Social Action Committee for Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. Through her leadership roles, she is deeply committed to advancing equity, advocacy, and community engagement both on campus and beyond. 

My name is Chhaya Diaz, and I am an Econ Major with a Minor in Business Management and Marketing on the Pre-Law track. I have 3 younger sisters that I model for, and I love to volunteer and give back to my community. I am a La Comunidad Intelectual Learning Community Floor Mentor and take many leadership roles within that. As an aspiring attorney, I would lie to be a criminal defense attorney to help reduce innocent people going to prison for something they didn’t do. This has been a passion of mine since I was in the 7th grade.

Elizabeth Scott is a senior at the University of Connecticut studying Elementary Education with a specialization in Mathematics. Elizabeth is a dedicated community leader and has been a part of many organizations and communities on campus such as the National Residence Hall Honorary, McMahon Hall Council, and Global House Learning Community. Elizabeth is a part of the Neag School of Education’s Integrated Bachelor’s/Master’s program and will be pursuing her masters in Curriculum and Instruction next year.

Andy Zhang is a senior at the University of Connecticut pursuing dual degrees in economics and environmental sciences as an Honors Scholar and Laureate, graduating in May 2026. A recipient of the Donald L. McCullough Leadership Award, UConn’s highest student leadership honor, his time at UConn has been defined by a commitment to building institutions that better reflect and serve the communities within them. As President of the Undergraduate Student Government, Andy worked to defend higher education during a period of national uncertainty, including responding to federal pressures on universities and advocating for policies that protect international students. As UConn’s first Chinese American student body president, he also led efforts to expand belonging on campus, helping establish UConn’s first Hindu prayer space and strengthening opportunities for student voice through the creation of the Connecticut Student Association.

Alongside his leadership, Andy has been a fierce environmental advocate on campus, serving as a sustainability intern with the UConn Office of Sustainability and as the founder of Plant Futures, a student organization focused on transforming institutional food systems through community and advocacy. Beyond UConn, Andy brings this work into broader policy and legal spaces. He has held roles with the New York State Attorney General’s Office, the Aspen Institute, Friends of the Earth, the Roosevelt Network, and Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP, contributing to work on environmental policy and climate governance. After graduation, Andy will join the Environmental Law Institute in Washington, D.C. for two years as a Research Associate before ultimately pursuing law school.

Kate Czajkowski is a senior at the University of Connecticut double majoring in Political Science and Human Rights with an interest in the intersection of international security, emerging technology, and venture capital. She is passionate about creating opportunities for students to engage with foreign policy on campus and is the Founder and President of the University of Connecticut Chapter of the Alexander Hamilton Society. She also serves as the Assistant Editor-In-Chief of the University of Connecticut Undergraduate Political Review and Student Chief of Staff at UConn Institutional Innovations and Insights. Throughout her time at UConn, she has represented the university at the 2025 Reagan National Defense Forum in California, the 2025 NATO Youth Summit in Montenegro, the 2024 Student Conference on U.S. Affairs (SCUSA) in New York, and the 2024 University Scholars Leadership Symposium in Thailand. After graduating one year early, she will pursue a MSc in International Relations from the London School of Economics and Political Science. She looks forward to embedding herself in Europe's defense ecosystem and developing the international network she needs to meaningfully contribute to US-European defense.

Kitan Arole is a sophomore journalism and political science student who is part of the Werth Innovators Program and the Werth Leadership Board. She owns her own female running brand and digital community called RunGal. She felt that existing running clothes for women lacked expressive design, style, and she wanted a brand that would both empower women runners and promotes community. 

Antigoni Konstantinou is a Ph.D. candidate in Materials Science at the Institute of Materials Science (UConn), where she focuses on designing advanced insulation materials for sustainable electrification and next-generation energy technologies. 

In addition to her research contributions, Antigoni is passionate about combining scientific discovery with mentorship and community engagement. She currently serves as the graduate student representative for IEEE CT and previously served as President of the UConn Materials Research Society chapter and the John Lof Leadership Academy. Through both her scientific work and service, she strives to build technologies—and communities—that are innovative, collaborative, and inclusive. She is honored to be recognized as a recipient of the Edward Victor Gant Scholarship. 

Katherine E. Mahan is a graduate student in Educational Psychology at the University of Connecticut and works as a K–12 special education resource teacher. She earned her B.A. in Political Science with a specialization in Race, Gender, and Policy from American University, where she developed a foundation in equity, social justice, and policy analysis. Her research and professional interests focus on the over- and under-identification of students in special education, as well as fostering inclusive, equitable learning environments for all students. Katherine has contributed to initiatives supporting student engagement, diversity, and educational equity, and is committed to advancing inclusive practices and empowering learners through innovative teaching and leadership within the UConn community. 

Mittal Darji is a Ph.D. student in Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Connecticut, where her research focuses on the rational design of lipid nanoparticles for RNA delivery. Her work also includes developing stable freeze-dried vaccines, with the broader goal of improving access to life-saving therapies and addressing real-world healthcare challenges. Under the mentorship of Dr. Xiuling Lu, she has contributed to multiple research projects and presented her work at national and international conferences. Her efforts have been recognized through several honors, including the Steve Nail Emerging Researcher Award, a Young Scientist Travel Grant, the top poster award at the CRS 2024 Annual Meeting and Exposition, and the UConn School of Pharmacy Outstanding Teaching Assistant Award, to name a few. Beyond research, Mittal has been an active leader in the AAPS student chapter and has contributed to community initiatives at UConn. She is dedicated to advancing drug delivery science in ways that are both innovative and meaningful to patient care. 

Natasha Khetan is a junior pursuing a dual degree: a B.S. in Allied Health Sciences and a B.A. in Disability Studies, the latter being an individualized major. 

Natasha is highly involved on campus, currently serving as an RA for the Public Health House Learning Community, an IMJR mentor for aspiring individualized majors, a Center for Students with Disabilities Tech Team member, a Student Program Director for Alternative Breaks (leading the HIV/AIDS Advocacy and Awareness alt break in 2025 and the Appalachian Culture and Rural Life alt break in 2026), and a BOLD Women's Leadership Network Scholar. Her BOLD Scholar project is a dual community service and research project that focuses on endometriosis awareness and education, a topic that she is passionate about. 

Through her education and future career, Natasha aspires to become a physician and help create a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system where every individual receives the respect, care, and support they deserve. 

Mia Giancola (she/her) is a sixth-semester honors student pursuing a dual degree in sociology and social work, with a minor in human development and family science. Giancola is passionate about disability issues, serving on the Center for Students with Disabilities Student Advisory Board and Student Health and Wellness's Health Equity Advocacy Leaders, as well as proposing a Disability Cultural Center on the Storrs Campus. In addition, Mia Giancola is a research assistant on the Puerto Rican Latino Studies Project at the School of Social Work. She aims to understand the role of resilience and identity formation on the social construction of disability during childhood.  

I am honored and grateful to receive this award! I am a second-year student majoring in Human Development and Family Sciences and minoring in Psychology. I enjoy actively participating as SUBOG's Comedy Chair, an FYE Mentor, a WOW Captain, and a member of Campus Big Buddies. I’m proud to be part of Husky Nation! Thank you so much!  

Jasmine Decossard is a senior majoring in Physiology and Neurobiology and minoring in Writing. Since joining UConn Community Outreach three years ago, she developed a commitment to service focused on maintaining a long-term impact. Jasmine is passionate about building lasting and meaningful connections in the communities she serves and hopes to integrate this work into her medical career past graduation.  

With a strong focus on housing insecurity, Jasmine is the Program Director for UConn’s volunteer partnership with Project HOPE, an adult shelter for people experiencing homelessness in Willimantic. She works with student volunteers and organizes efforts like clothing drives to support the needs of the shelter and its guests. 

Jasmine also recently served as a trip leader for UConn Bridge to Guanin, where she helped lead 12 students on a medical service trip to the Dominican Republic. She prioritized cultural competency as well as clinical and community focused experiences to support and educate students throughout their time on the trip. 

Finally, Jasmine is a BOLD Women’s Leadership Scholar. Through this program, she returned to Guanin to film a documentary on geographical barriers to accessing maternal healthcare in the Dominican Republic, aiming to advocate for the women of the community and share their stories.  

Jasmine’s work in community service remains the most meaningful to her throughout all her obligations. She hopes to continue integrating service into her future career as a street team physician who also focuses in on international healthcare. 

My name is Molly Murphy, and I am a junior majoring in Biomedical Engineering. I am very honored to be receiving the Individual Husky Pride Award. My school spirit for UConn is something intertwined into all aspects of my life. Since the second I stepped onto UConn’s campus for my first tour, I immediately knew it was the school I wanted to attend. I was met with a welcoming environment, seeing a campus filled with students proudly wearing their UConn merch. It was instantly clear that school spirit ran very deep. Once I decided to attend UConn, I knew that I wanted to contribute and continue this camaraderie however I could. Whether that was camping out for 36 hours for one of the biggest basketballs games or wearing my many UConn t-shirts while working in Ghana with the service-learning abroad club that I run. Being a UConn student is a title that I am proud of, and one that I try to represent in any way that I can.  

Elika Shams is a Ph.D. student in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Connecticut, where she studies the molecular mechanisms of rare genetic diseases using computational modeling and molecular dynamics simulations in Dr. Anna Tarakanova’s lab. Her research focuses on elastin gene mutations and their effects on extracellular matrix proteins. 

She earned her master’s degree in biotechnology from the University of Tehran and previously worked as a research assistant at Biotechnology Pioneers, contributing to bioink development for soft tissue bioprinting. 

Beyond research, Elika is deeply involved in leadership and community building. She has served as President of the John Lof Leadership Academy (JLLA) since last summer and has also been President of the Iranian Cultural Organization at UConn since 2024. Through these roles, she has strengthened her passion for collaboration, mentorship, and inclusive leadership. Outside of academics, Elika is a runner and hiker who loves exploring trails, traveling, and discovering new places through running. 

Md Delowar Hossain, graduate student of Chemical Engineering Department, currently serves as President of the Graduate Students Association of Bangladesh (GSAB), UCONN. In this role, he has been dedicated to fostering meaningful connections among current students, incoming graduate students, alumni, and the broader international student community to create an inclusive and supportive environment. Under his outstanding leadership, GSAB has become an important support system for international students in making a smooth transition from outside the United States to graduate life at UCONN. He also serves as a mentor and coordinator for Bangladeshi graduate students across all UCONN campuses.  

Through his dynamic leadership, GSAB plays a vital role in introducing Bangladeshi culture, heritage, and traditions to the wider international community at UCONN. The organization has developed and maintained an active online community platform where both new and current Bangladeshi students can seek assistance with essential needs such as academic and research guidance, transportation, groceries, housing, medication, and food support. Fellow students volunteered to help based on their availability, fostering a strong culture of mutual care, solidarity, and collective responsibility. 

With his visionary leadership, GSAB has become a space where students can recharge, build friendships, and develop professional networks despite demanding academic schedules. He contributed to building a welcoming, resilient community at UCONN where students felt a sense of belonging not only during celebrations, but in their everyday lives. While much of this work happens quietly and may not always receive official recognition, he remains deeply committed to continuing these efforts and strengthening the support network for future students.  

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.

I am a finance student at the University of Connecticut and a first-generation college student with a multicultural background rooted in Colombia and Argentina. I originally transferred from CT State Community College, an experience that strengthened my perspective and commitment to growth. I am an active member of La Comunidad Intelectual and am involved in student leadership, and various campus initiatives. I value building community and supporting others, and I strive to contribute positively to the spaces I am part of.

Mackenzie Dahlen is a first year Natural Resources student, concentrating in Environmental Conservation and Sustainability and in Fisheries and Wildlife Conservation. She is also pursuing a minor in Environmental Economics and Policy. She is a current member of the Living Learning Community, EcoHouse, where she engages in environmental service opportunities and is an active leader on the floor. She is dedicated to making her LC a warm and welcoming space, whether it’s by baking sweet treats, planning events, or offering a friendly smile and helping hand. She is a member of the Learning Community Council, where she helps provide LC students with both academic and fun events and programming. She is also engaged in numerous environmental organizations on campus and is currently employed by UConn Campus Housing, as a Student Desk Associate, highlighting her continued leadership across campus. Moving forward, she hopes to continue developing her professional and leadership skills through engaging, learning and collaborating with various offices and programs on campus. After college, she plans to take the skill, lessons, and experience she obtained during her time at UConn, and apply it to her professional career in Environmental Conservation Research and Advocacy. 

Carina Adams-Szabo is a graduating senior who has built a unique academic and professional profile at the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and political science. As the Founder and President of Neuropolicy Club, Carina bridges the gap between scientific research and community advocacy—a mission she also pursues through her dual research roles. Carina serves as a Research Assistant at the UConn School of Social Work alongside Professor Lisa Werkmeister Rozas and in the Read Lab, where she explores the neurobiology of sound perception.

In addition to her academic work, Carina serves her community as an elected official to Greenwich RTM. She was also the primary author of the 2025 CT Latino Policy Summit Report and currently serves as a lead coordinator for the forthcoming 2026 CT Latina Campaign School, a bilingual program designed to empower the next generation of Latina political leaders. Her commitment to the Husky community is further reflected in her roles on the CLAS Student Leadership Board and as a tutor for the Student-Athlete Success Program. Following her graduation in May 2026, Carina looks forward to continuing her work in advocacy, research, and representation.

Haven 2 Heal is a student-founded and entirely student-run organization at UConn, established in 2025 and dedicated to promoting community wellness by providing essential healthcare supplies to homeless individuals and others in need in the nearby Storrs area. Our mission is to bridge the gap in access to basic healthcare resources through compassion and action. We focus on raising funds to organize hands-on workshops where members assemble first-aid kits and wellness products, partnering with local shelters to distribute them to those in need. In addition to our outreach efforts, we aim to educate members about public health issues and the challenges faced by vulnerable populations, fostering a sense of empathy and advocacy. By joining Haven 2 Heal, students have the opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of others, develop valuable skills, and contribute to building a healthier, more compassionate community. Together, we strive to be a source of hope and healing for those who need it most.

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!

Yamileth is a graduate student in the Higher Education and Student Affairs master's program at the University of Connecticut. She currently serves as a Graduate Assistant with Pre-College Summer, where she supports residential operations, student staff supervision, and program development to enhance the experience of pre-college participants. She also works as an Academic Coach with the Student-Athlete Success Program, providing individualized support to student-athletes to strengthen academic skills, goal setting, and overall success. In addition, Yamileth has served as a First-Year Experience instructor supporting college transition, engagement, and personal development. Across these roles, she is committed to fostering inclusive learning environments and promoting student growth and leadership. Yamileth is honored to receive the Outstanding Graduate Assistant Award in recognition of her dedication and impact.

HuskyTHON is a year-long philanthropic effort at the University of Connecticut to raise funds and awareness for Connecticut Children’s, a Children’s Miracle Network hospital. This effort culminates in an 18-hour dance marathon, where thousands of UConn students come together to dance for those who can’t. HuskyTHON is entirely student-run, led by our Management Team of 32 undergraduate student leaders who work tirelessly to make HuskyTHON better than the year before. HuskyTHON is the largest Dance Marathon in the country by participation and the 2nd highest fundraising. Just a few weeks ago HuskyTHON announced $2.22 Million dollars raised in its 27th year.

Serena Lee is a second-year Psychological Sciences student from Busan, South Korea who is passionate about preventing gender-based violence. After seeing the Protect our Pack presentation during orientation, Serena realized the importance of educating college students about gender-based violence. Serena's advocacy began shortly after orientation when she applied to be a Pack Leader and used her voice to have conversations about consent and healthy relationships as a peer educator.

As the Title IX Coordinator for Undergraduate Student Government, a Protect Our Pack Leader / Intern in the Dean of Students Office, Student Conduct Ambassador for the Office of Community Standards, and Vice President for Revolution Against Rape, Serena is a leader in creating a healthier, safer, and more respectful campus community. Serena serves as a student representative for President’s Council on Combating Sexual Violence and Harassment Steering Committee, University Senate Student Welfare Committee, Student Health and Wellness Suicide Prevention Committee, and Health Promoting University Student Advisory Board. In addition to her leadership at UConn, Serena volunteers for the Crisis Text Line, which offers people navigating challenges empathy, guidance, and understanding when they need it most.

“To girls everywhere, I am with you. On nights when you feel alone, I am with you. When people doubt you or dismiss you, I am with you. I fought every day for you. So never stop fighting, I believe you. As the author Anne Lamott once wrote, “Lighthouses don’t go running all over an island looking for boats to save; they just stand there shining.” Although I can’t save every boat, I hope that by speaking today, you absorbed a small amount of light, a small knowing that you can’t be silenced, a small satisfaction that justice was served, a small assurance that we are getting somewhere, and a big, big knowing that you are important, unquestionably, you are untouchable, you are beautiful, you are to be valued, respected, undeniably, every minute of every day, you are powerful and nobody can take that away from you. To girls everywhere, I am with you.” Emily Doe (Chanel Miller)’s Victim Impact Statement

Brenny Alcantara is a Junior majoring in Environmental Science and Political Science. With high aspirations and actionable optimism, he works relentlessly in the pursuit of his dream. To become a facilitator of other people’s aspirations through the elimination of systemic, economic, social, and environmental barriers. In the city of Waterbury, he serves as a public official in his role of Litter Control and Beautification Commission Chairman, where he resides over meetings and manages pollution in the entire city. Alongside this, he teaches environmental literacy and creates volunteering opportunities through monthly cleanups. Brenny also works at the UConn Office of Sustainability, where he focuses on content development, research, and information events. He was also recently chosen to be part of the 2026 Leadership Legacy Experience cohort. Throughout all his work, as a leader, community member, and student, Brenny makes it his priority to work for the people and lift everyone up, so they too can seek their inherent passions.

Crystal Schambach is a junior at the University of Connecticut pursuing a degree in Music Education. She serves as an Undergraduate Administrative Assistant and Theater Manager within the School of Fine Art’s Music Department, and during the summer, works as a Student Admin Trainee supporting orientation programs for the School of Fine Arts. Through these roles, she has developed strong skills in leadership, communication, and mentorship while supporting students, faculty, and large-scale events. Her proudest accomplishments include contributing to the success of departmental performances and programs, as well as helping to create a welcoming and organized environment for incoming students.

In addition to her professional roles, she is an active member of the UConn Symphony Orchestra and the Percussion Ensemble. She also serves as the Vice President of the Music Student Advisory Council, where she helps advocate for and support the needs of music students. Beyond campus involvement, she assists the Connecticut Music Educators Association (CMEA) with its Eastern Regionals event.

She is incredibly grateful for the opportunities these experiences have provided. They have allowed her to grow both professionally and personally during her time at UConn. She looks forward to building on these experiences while applying her skills in a variety of professional settings. After graduation, she plans to pursue her master’s in Curriculum and Instruction at UConn and hopes to build a career in education, either as a teacher or in an administrative role.

My name is Maia Schwing and I am a current senior in the Neag School of Education. I am pursuing a degree in Secondary Math Education to become a high school math teacher. I have been employed with Dining Services since Spring 2023, and I started as a Student Worker at Towers Dining Hall. I worked my way up from Student Worker to Student Program Coordinator through many interviews, projects, and semesters of hard work. As Student Program Coordinator, my duties range from administrative work to fieldwork. Whether I am spending time at my desk or visiting one of our 20+ Dining Services locations, my responsibilities are to oversee student employment and ensure that every student leaves the department with a positive story and with real skills for their post-college path. As Student Program Coordinator, I manage a crew of 1000+ student employees and ensure that each Dining Services location (ex/ UC Cafes, Residential Dining Halls, Catering) is operating with a trained crew to keep service running.

Tara Malone is the Associate Director for the Center for Career Readiness and Life Skills for Regional Campuses. With over 20 years of experience in career development, she leads career services and programming for the regional campuses. In the area of student employee management, she oversees the Regional Campus Micro-Internship Program, supervises Career Ambassadors, and co-manages the student team for the free on-campus thrift shop, Husky Clothing for All. A first-generation college graduate, Tara is passionate about supporting first-generation and diverse students, helping them access meaningful and equitable career opportunities. She is motivated by guiding students on their career journeys and celebrating their achievements, big or small. Tara holds a Master of Arts in Community Counseling from Fairfield University and a Bachelor of Science in Speech from Emerson College, and she is a nationally certified and state-licensed counselor.

Moeez Khawaja is a junior in the School of Business at the University of Connecticut, majoring in Analytics and Information Management. As a first-generation college student, he has approached his time at UConn with a strong sense of purpose, using leadership as a way to create opportunities not only for himself but for those around him.

On campus, Moeez serves as a Resident Assistant in Shippee, where he supports first-year students and builds an inclusive, welcoming community. He is also the Husky Insider Coordinator at the Lodewick Visitors Center, where he leads a team of over 150 student tour guides and helps shape the experience of prospective students and their families. Across his roles, he focuses on mentorship, organization, and creating systems that help others succeed.

Beyond campus, Moeez remains actively involved in community service initiatives in his hometown, staying connected to the communities that shaped him. He is committed to giving back and values leadership that is grounded in integrity, consistency, and service.

After graduation, Moeez plans to pursue a career in law, where he hopes to advocate for those whose voices often go unheard.

Pam Win is a junior studying Psychological Sciences at the University of Connecticut. She is a McNair Scholar and BOLD Scholar who is deeply committed to advancing public health, health equity, and community-centered education. Pam serves as a Student Program Coordinator and Peer Health Educator with the Substance Use Risk Reduction Program at Student Health and Wellness, where she helps lead harm reduction initiatives and promotes evidence-based approaches to reduce stigma surrounding substance use. Pam is actively involved in leadership and service across campus. She recently served as a Student Program Director for the Boston Alternative Break through Community Outreach, where she led a trip focused on exploring the social determinants of health. She will continue serving with Community Outreach as a Student Program Coordinator for the 2026–2027 academic year. She is also the Member Development Chair for Sigma Theta Alpha, a professional pre-health fraternity, where she supports professional growth and leadership development among pre-health students. Pam believes meaningful change begins with listening to and learning from the people and communities we hope to serve. She strives to lead with empathy, humility, and intentionality, working alongside others to create more equitable and compassionate approaches to health and care.

Shelley Durocher has been the Professional Staff Advisor of the UConn Horticulture Club since 2019.  She is a Horticulturist and Laboratory Technician for the Plant Growth Facilities in the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture at UConn.  Her background in secondary education, horticulture, and research supports her role as a liaison between the growth facilities and the wide variety of education courses, research projects, and student activities that occur within them.

Rhiannon Trunzo is a senior psychology major, president of the Student Veterans of America club, and a work study student in the Veterans and Military Programs office. Currently, she researches stress and coping in a military population in Dr. Park's Spirituality, Meaning, and Health Lab and interns at Natchaug Hospital, an inpatient psychiatric care facility. At age 18, she enlisted in the Rhode Island National Guard's 88th Army Band, where she played flute in community concerts. In 2022, Rhiannon transferred to Connecticut's 102d Army Band, playing military ceremonies and concerts as a member of their Woodwind Quintet. Since then, she has been promoted to Sergeant, became certified in Master Resilience Training, and managed the unit's Instagram account and music library. She is currently applying to doctoral programs in clinical psychology, where her research and clinical interests will focus on military mental health.