Meet 2025’s University Student Award Winners
Each year, 18 students are honored with AU’s highest awards for service, leadership and scholarship - the University Student Achievement Awards.
In a tradition that goes back nearly a century, students are nominated for specific ways they have excelled at AU and impacted the community, from academics to leadership. This year’s award winners will be feted on May 9 at an Awards Program, and honored during their commencement ceremonies, where they will also be seated on stage. Winners also receive cash awards.
Here are the 2025 graduates who will be honored for their outstanding contributions.
Outstanding Scholarship
Four students are honored each year for exceptional scholarship: two undergraduates and two graduate students. This year's awardees for the Scott A. Bass Outstanding Scholarship at the Undergraduate Level Award are Anna C. Keyes, SIS/BA ‘25, and Hasset Tibebe, CAS/BS ‘25. Darla E. Davenport-Powell, SOE/EdD ‘25, and Sriman Thangaraj, SPA/MPA ‘25, will receive awards for Outstanding Scholarship at the Graduate Level.
Anna C. Keyes, SIS/BA ‘25, is a dedicated scholar who has performed exceptionally well inside the classroom and beyond. Graduating with a degree in international studies, she carried out innovative research throughout her undergraduate career.As an Olson Scholar, Anna developed a project focused on sexual violence during the Kosovo War and received an Olson Fieldwork Award that enabled her to travel to Pristina, Kosovo to conduct interviews. She later obtained funding through the AU Summer Scholars and Artists program to pursue archival research supporting her SIS Honors thesis “Bridging the Gap Between Wartime and Peacetime Rape: Multiple Perpetrator Rape in 1980s and 1990s Texas.” Anna was selectedto present her work at the National Conference on Undergraduate Research and Southwestern Social Science Association Conference. Anna also served as a publications intern and press assistant at the Cato Institute and managing editor for Clocks and Clouds, AU’s undergraduate research journal.
Anna C. Keyes (SIS/BA ‘25)
Hasset Tibebe, CAS/BS ‘25, has excelled academically while carrying out challenging, high-impact research. Majoring in biochemistry, she made important contributions as an undergraduate research assistant in Professor Izumi’s lab. Through various experiments, Hasset studied HIV cure strategies using latency reversal agents. Her four peer-reviewed journal articles, including a first-author paper recently published in Viruses, demonstrate her exceptional productivity. Outside the lab, Hassetpresentedher findings both on campus and at conferences like the Rising Stars in Cell Biology Symposium at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and the NIH Strategies for an HIV Cure Conference. She also served as an undergraduate student advisor for the Black epiSTEMologies Project, an NSF-funded initiative focused on Black student experiences in STEM, shaping the project’s outreach and dissemination efforts.
Hasset Tibebe (CAS/BS ‘25)
Darla E. Davenport-Powell, SOE/EdD ‘25, is an exceptionally engaged scholar practitioner who completed her doctorate in Education Policy and Leadership.A published children’s book author and inventor of children’s dolls, Darla is committed to bridging theory and practice. Her scholarly work focuses on the interconnected areas of mother/scholar identity, edutainment, and culturally responsive social-emotional learning, and she successfully defended herdissertation Niya and the Clubhouse Crew: An Ujima-Centered Approach to SEL for Black Girls earlier this spring.Darla has an accepted book chapter with the series “The Criticality of Research for and about Women in Education” published by IAP.She was named the “Audience Choice” winner at the Veloric Center’s pitch competitionand received funding to pursue prestigious professional development opportunities at the University of Richmond and Dartmouth College.
Darla E. Davenport-Powell (SOE/EdD ‘25)
Sriman Thangaraj, SPA/MPA ‘25, completed his Master of Public Administration degree and also earned a certificate in analytics and management. A double Eagle, Sriman demonstrated a commitment to academic achievement throughout his AU experience.He took on an ambitious graduate courseload immediately upon entering the BA/MPA program and continued to maintain an impressive GPA. Passionate about addressing real-world policy challenges, Sriman published work on topics like artificial intelligence and electoral reform in the Stanford Economic Review, Penn Political Review, and other outlets. He was also inducted into the Pi Alpha Alpha honor society for public administration. Beyond the classroom, he expertly applied his research skills in internships with Cornerstone Government Affairs, Results for America, and Forbes Tate Partners. His recommenders applauded Sriman's intellectual curiosity, initiative, and professionalism.
Sriman Thangaraj(SPA/MPA ‘25)
Outstanding Service to the Community
The award for Outstanding Service to the University Community goes to two students — graduate or undergraduate — who have made a lasting impact on the AU community.
John Dimino, SPA/BA ‘25, has been a leader across campus. He served as Chair of the AU Club Council. Overseeing a $250,000 budget that funds over 200 student organizations, he made the allocation process more transparent, accessible, and fair for all students. He also shapedpolicy as the undergraduate representative on the facilities use policy group. John wasdeeply involved with the Residence Hall Association, being appointed by four different RHA presidents to a variety of critical roles. Heserved in two undergraduate senates, welcomed new students to campus as an Orientation Leader, and volunteered with the Student Alumni Association.
John Dimino (SPA/BA ‘25)
Tyler Eliades, SPA/MA ‘25,is a Double Eagle and Graduate Student Ambassador at SPA. He encouraged prospective graduate students with campus tours, individual conversations, congratulations admission calls, student panels, and general support for SPA's recruitment efforts. Heassisted several Sine Fellows in organizing their seminar series, advancing the Institute’s work with unparalleled passion, positivity, curiosity, and commitment.Recently, as a Civic Life Fellow, he embraced and championed President Alger’s initiatives, guiding peers in discussions and exploring complex issues with thoughtfulness and a willingness to learn. In the words of one of his nominators, for his remarkable dedication, Tyler is “Mr. AU.”
Tyler Eliades(SPA/MA ‘25)
Student Achievement Awards
Eleven of AU’s most active, engaged, and high-achieving undergraduates are being honored for their impact on the community with Student Achievement Awards.
Maeve Devereux, SOC/BA ‘25, receives the Bruce Hughes Award, which goes to a student who has performed outstanding service to the university community and demonstrated unusual depth and maturity in leadership. Maeve was a leader inthe Public Relations Student Society’s PR firm, Eagle Communications—revitalizingthe organization by securing major clients, recruiting a large team, and delivering impactful campaigns. She enriched the student experience as Director of Communications and Outreach for AU in Motion, helping the largest student-run dance group at AU grow to 175 members and boosting participation across the university. She alsoalso excelled academically, earning a place on the Dean’s List and being recognized with the Dean’s Merit Scholarship. One nominator praised Maeve's "ability to help so many people at Ҵýand her passion to make a difference."
Maeve Devereux(SOC/BA ‘25)
Salvatore Cottone, SPA/BA ‘25, earns the Catheryn Seckler-Hudson Award, given to a senior who exemplifies character and achievement while making significant contributions to Student Government. Salvatore served inmulitple roles throughout his tenure with AU Student Government,culminating in Comptroller. ManagingAUSG’s financial responsibilities with transparency, he ensured that student resources were allocated equitably and with student voices at the forefront. As a nominator described, "Sal's leadership style is defined by his empathy, fairness, and steadfast commitment to the student body."
Salvatore Cottone (SPA/BA ‘25)
Isabel Alvarado, Kogod/BBA ‘25, is the recipient of this year’s Harold Johnson Award, which honors a student for promoting cultural and racial diversity and understanding.As cofounder and President of Latinos En Acción, Isabel created a space for students to celebrate culture, advocate for immigrants’ rights, and volunteer in the DC community.Isabelalso served as an AUx Peer Facilitator and a Marketing and Promotions Intern for Athletics.Beyond AU, as a Lead Organizer for the United We Dream network, she worked at both a local level in the DMV and nationwide as part of the National Leadership Committee to and strategically plan and advocate for immigrants. In the words of one recommender, “Isabel is a champion for marginalized communities, a driven and passionate change-maker, and a motivating force.”
Isabel Alvarado (Kogod/BBA ‘25)
Jordan Gunter, CAS/BA ‘25, earns the Kinsman-Hurst Award, which recognizes service in Student Government or the Student Conduct system.From his first year on campus, Jordan took on the demanding role of Judicial Board Chair within AU Student Government. He navigated challenging situations with integrity and poise, deeply dedicated to justice and fairness.He was instrumental in continuously improving AUSG’s governing documents and policies. His commitment to institutional growth and transparency has left a lasting impact, ensuring that the governance structures at AU remain equitable and effective. As President of the AU Gospel Choir, Jordan led his fellow singers in celebrating faith through music, fellowship, and unity. His nominators praised his "collaborative approach" and "his genuine passion for serving the AU community."
Jordan Gunter (CAS/BA ‘25)
Lea Stahr, CAS/BS ‘25, has been awarded the Charles W. Van Way Award for her contributions to building community.Lea is a consistent presence and leader in the AU STEM community. As President of the Women in Science (WIS) student organization, her leadership contributed to the expansion of WIS to represent students from both the natural and physical sciences and include students in all years of study, including graduate students.She served in the STEM Student Club Council, collaborating with other on-campus student groups and further advancing STEM inclusivity.Lea also served as a mentor in the Asian Ҵý Student Union.Celebrating her work building community, Lea’s recommenders noted "her ability to connect with and support students both inside and outside the classroom speaks volumes about her dedication to holistic education and student success."
Lea Stahr (CAS/BS ‘25)
Isabella Bouvard, Kogod/BS ‘25, lands the Charles Glover Award for her citizenship and business leadership.As President of the Kogod Undergraduate Student Council, Isabella revitalized a dormant organization into a thriving hub for professional development, student engagement, and school pride.She also served as President of the Kogod Accounting Club. Through her work with University Advancement, she shared her AU experience with alumni and donors, championing the university’s mission and building bridges across generations. As a tax preparer with Community Tax Aid, Isabella used her financial skills to support low-income D.C. residents. Her recommenders described that Isabella "elevated the student experience during her time here and laid the foundation for future students."
Isabella Bouvard (Kogod/BS ‘25)
Jack Ziets, SPA/BA ‘25, has been awarded the Fletcher Scholar Award for his combination of leadership, citizenship, and scholarship.Jack was President of the AU Honors Student Advisory Committee. Healso served as program logistics manager for the Kennedy Political Union and as membership director for AU College Democrats. As a SINE Institute student associate, Jack have worked tirelessly to support SINE fellow Alida Garcia, a social activist with expertise in Latino civic engagement.Beyond AU, he interned in the office of Congresswoman Susan Wild, later taking a leave of absence to serve on her reelection campaign. Jack also got involved with a new political action committee encouraging voters to support the best candidates during a contentious race for the school board in Pennsylvania. In one nominator’s words: Jack "is a natural leader, and he will be an asset and change agent wherever he goes."
Jack Ziets (SPA/BA ‘25)
Risako Sho, SIS/BA ‘25, wins the Carlton Savage Award for herwork to increase intercultural understanding at AU.As the founder and first President of the Japanese Cultural Exchange (JCX), Risako built a vibrant and inclusive community that bridges cultures through shared interest in Japanese traditions, language, and history. Under her leadership, JCX grew from a handful of students to nearly 80 members. Risako and her team's impact extended beyond campus through a partnership with the Japanese Embassy. Herefforts have connected AU’s student body with local and international communities, enriching the university’s cultural landscape. In one recommender’s words: "Her valuable efforts have enriched the diversity of campus and promoted intercultural interaction/understanding through sharing her knowledge of Japanese culture."
Risako Sho (SIS/BA ‘25)
Kira Carr, CAS/BS ‘25, receives the Gail Short Hanson Award for Advocacy for principled and informed leadership in advancing a cause, policy, or program that benefits the campus community or a community beyond the campus.Kira co-created the first Pre-Dental Club at AU and have served as President. In this role, she helped foster connections between pre-dental students and inform others about the profession. Beyond the classroom, Kira co-founded Smile DC, an educational oral hygiene initiative designed to engage and educate elementary school students about the importance of preventative dental care in a fun and interactive way. With Smile DC, she have presented to over 800 students across 36 classrooms in the DC area, empowering young children with the knowledge necessary for lifelong oral health. As one recommender said, Kira's “passion is contagious, and she has the rare ability to translate public health theory into meaningful, practical action.”
Kira Carr (CAS/BS‘25)
Nicole LeVee, CAS/SOE/BA ‘25, has earned the Evelyn Swarthout-Hayes Award for contributing to the community through the arts while demonstrating impressive academic achievement.For three years, Nicole served as Artistic Director for AU In Motion. Under her leadership, the club grew from 50 active members to over 220 members, making it the largest dance-based student club at AU.She also worked tirelessly to foster cross-community relationships in the AU dance community as a whole. Nicole demonstrated academic excellence while double-majoring in Secondary Education and Sociology. Her research work under a National Science Foundation grant on Problem-Based Learning exemplifies her intellectual curiosity and drive to contribute meaningfully to the field of education.In one's recommender words, Nicole “consistently stands out as an engaged, collaborative, and inspiring leader.”
Nicole LeVee (CAS/SOE/BA ‘25)
Caroline Spaniel, CAS/BS ‘25, receives the Stafford H. Cassell Award, which recognizes a student who exemplifies the traits of Stafford Cassell—total, selfless dedication to AU, profound energy, reliability, intellectual curiosity, friendliness, and helpfulness.As a member of the Department of Economics Student Advisory Board, Caroline mentored other students. She also supported and guided her peers as a Teaching Assistant in Global Strategy and Supplemental Instructor in Business Finance. As Vice President for Finance in her sorority, Delta Gamma, Caroline managed a budget of over $70,000, working with seven other Vice Presidents to help the chapter thrive.Beyond AU, she worked three highly competitive economic internships at the Transportation Security Administration, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and Deloitte Consulting. Speaking to her character, one recommender said: "Caroline is known for her friendly, approachable demeanor and genuine willingness to assist peers and faculty. She consistently contributes to creating a collaborative and supportive academic environment."
Caroline Spaniel (CAS/BS ‘25)
President’s Award
Faith Massey, CAS/BA ‘25, is the 2025 President’s Award winner – the highest distinction for an AU undergraduate. Faith is asociology major dedicated to service. She has shineda light on how systemic problems affect local communities through her reserach. Read all about Faith and her work at AU in the profile, "President’s Award Winner Has Faith in Herself."
Faith Massey (CAS/BA ’25)