Towson University Honors College Spring 2020 Graduate Bios and Acknowledgements

Graduates from each class are asked to write a personal bio and are given the opportunity to acknowledge anyone this wish to recognize. Below are the bios from the TU Honors College class of spring 2020.

Megan Andersen Megan Andersen comes from Cecil County, . She is an art + design major and intends to continue her craft in both illustration and writing post-graduation to make and publish comics professionally. She would like thank all of her wonderful professors and her advisors for encouraging her and inspiring her. Special thanks to Dr. Fox, Nora Sturges, and Jim Condron for their invaluable guidance. She couldn't have done it without them.

Luca Artista Luca Artista is from Manchester, MD and will graduate with honors this spring with his degree in business administration and a minor in political science. During his time at Towson, Luca served on the building council for both Douglass House and Tower C winning a Building Council MVP award and Building Council of the Year with his team. Luca was a resident assistant for two years in Tower C and one year in Marshall Hall while also serving as the vice president for the Men’s Ultimate Frisbee team. Outside of Towson, Luca had the opportunity to intern with the County State’s Attorney’s Office and with state Senator Andrew Serafini this past legislative session in Annapolis. After graduating, Luca is looking forward to attending the University of Maryland to earn his law degree and begin his journey to becoming an attorney. Luca would like to thank the Honors College Staff, his past supervisors, coworkers, and friends for such a memorable four years. He would also like to thank his Mom, Dad, and brother Massimo for always pushing him to do his best and for being so supportive.

Charlotte Bader After graduation, Charlotte plans to attend medical school.

Laurene Rose Batiquin Laurene Rose Hidalgo Batiquin is a first-generation college student who will graduate with honors, earning a degree in nursing. Laurene plans on passing the nursing licensure exam to earn her RN license and hopes to work as an ICU nurse at a magnet hospital. She looks forward to embarking on her career and discovering what field she wishes to specialize in prior to attending further education. She loved her experience at , and says that The Honors College helped her develop valuable professional skills and gave her opportunities that she would not have had otherwise. Laurene completed two independent courses alongside her nursing classes, internships, and clinical rotations; held a position in an undergraduate research lab; served as treasurer for the TU Student Nurses Association; and was inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. She claims that challenges faced within her undergraduate education helped her grow as an individual and form strong friendships with like-minded people that will last a lifetime. She would like to thank all of the TU staff, members of TUDON, her mentors and advisors Dr. Snyder & Dr. Burgess, as well as family and friends for support during her undergraduate career.

Noah Beall Noah Beall is from Calvert County Maryland and will graduate with honors with a bachelor’s in international studies and Asian Studies with a minor in Chinese language. After graduation, Noah will be teaching English abroad in China for two years before perusing his masters in Chinese language. During his time at Towson University Noah was one of the few Towson students in recent history to study abroad in China for an entire semester, sharpening his language skills and widening his world view. Noah was also published in Towson’s journal of International Affairs with his publication "Terrorism and ASEAN: Noninterference vs Security". During his studies, he also was a vocal voice in the Towson University Democrats, frequently participating in debates with the college Republicans and serving as treasurer for one term. Upon graduating he has received both the Hirschmann-McWilliams Award in Asian Studies and the award for Distinguished Academic Excellence in Chinese. Knickole Bergman Knickole Bergman will graduate with honors, a B.S. in molecular biology, biochemistry, and bioinformatics, and a minor in chemistry. After graduation, she will be working as a postbac fellow at the National Cancer Institute in Frederick, MD. During her time at Towson, she has been a member of Towson Track Club, the Towson Chapter of ASBMB, she played multiple intramural sports, and she served as an Honors College recruitment officer and orientation mentor. She was also a resident assistant for two years in the Honors community and she served as an undergraduate learning assistant for genetics and chemistry courses. She is thankful that the Honors College pushed her to pursue unique opportunities, such as a research experience for undergraduates program which took her to Massachusetts, as well as her study abroad program which took her to Peru. She would like to thank her friends and family for always pushing her to be the best version of herself and supporting her along the way. Aditi Biswas Aditi Biswas is originally from Phoenixville, PA, but now her and her family reside in Catonsville, MD. She is graduating with Honors with a BS in biology. After graduation she is joining the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health to pursue a master’s in molecular microbiology and immunology, in the fall of 2020. Aditi thoroughly appreciated the diverse and rigorous nature of honors courses throughout her time at TU. They allowed her a perspective on fields very different from hers, and helped keep her up to date on global issues. Honors classes such as multicultural psychology and urban education helped her to get to know the rich history of the Baltimore area, and connect with her fellow Honors students in Towson. She also enjoyed going on Honors trips such as the Cherry Blossom Festival in DC. At TU, Aditi was the president of the Minority Association of Premedical Students (MAPS), a Presidential Ambassador, and a senator for SGA. She would like to thank all of her wonderful professors who helped guide her academic journey, and their kindness and attention to each individual student. She has made strong bonds with fellow Honors students from her first year at Douglass, and hopes that she will carry those friendships for the rest of her life.

Natalie Bland Natalie Bland hails from Baltimore, Maryland, and graduates with honors, earning a degree in mass communication with a dual track in journalism and public relations, with a minor in Spanish. What she appreciated most about The Honors College were the discussion-based classes that inspired new perspectives and critical thinking. Natalie interned during the summer before her senior year at WBAL-TV and then earned a part time job at the station as an assignment editor. After a few months she moved on to an associate producer position. After graduation, she looks forward to continuing her work at WBAL-TV. She worked at the Towson Career Center for the last three years of college and while also holding two other jobs. She would like to thank her professors that pushed her and supported her, and would like to thank her family and parents most of all for doing everything they could to help pursue her dreams and make it to graduation.

Joseph Brocato Joseph Brocato comes from Crofton, Maryland, and is graduating with honors, earning a degree in biology with a concentration in cellular and molecular biology.

Kristian Brown Kristian Brown is from Chesapeake Virginia and will graduate this semester, earning her bachelor’s degree in mathematics, with a minor in marketing. During her time at Towson, Kristian has been a Resident Assistant for Housing & Residence Life, a BCPS after school programs coordinator for Girls in the Game and a teen mentor for Expanding Intelligence Today (ExIT). Kristian has also worked with the Baltimore Humane Society and Towson University's Mens Basketball Team, doing research projects under the Applied Mathematics Lab. After graduation, Kristian plans to start her career as a data analyst. She is grateful for the opportunities she has been awarded and the invaluable life lessons she has learned during her college experience.

Nicholas Coleman Nicholas Coleman from Elkton, Maryland, will graduate with honors, earning a degree in political science and minor in international studies. He spent five of his six semesters at Towson learning Arabic with Professor Ziad Bentahar, whom Nicholas considers a mentor and friend as well. Nicholas would like to thank the entire Honors College staff, and specifically Dr. Alison McCartney, for guidance throughout his college career. His future plans are epic and private.

Ethan Connelly Ethan Connelly is from Sharpsburg, Maryland, and will graduate with honors, earning a degree in economics. Ethan is a devoted member of the Towson University Track Club and spent two years as the club’s secretary. Some of Ethan’s proudest achievements include placing 54th in the Junior/Senior/Grad race at the NIRCA Cross Country National Championships, running a Boston Marathon qualifying time in the Philadelphia Marathon, and graduating in four years despite switching majors at the end of his second year. After graduation, he will begin his career at McAdam Financial in Vienna, Virginia, where he plans to become a licensed financial advisor. Ethan enjoyed the small class sizes and how the Honors College encouraged him to expand his worldview and become more aware of other perspectives. He would like to thank the Honors College staff, his family, and friends for their support along the way.

Melinda Cutler Maryland native Melinda Cutler is proud to graduate with honors, earning a Bachelor of Science in biology with a minor in English. While at Towson, Melinda was involved with several organizations including NYG Book Club and Tiny Tigers. Her last year, she became involved in hands-on research investigating the effects of urbanization on fish physiology and stream ecology. She plans to pursue future research opportunities in her career after graduation. In addition to her research experiences, she interned at the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, working with the African aviary, tortoises, and sitatunga exhibits. Her favorite memories of the Honors College were the annual bus trips to Washington D.C., her unique honors classes, and meeting her roommate in Douglas House. Melinda would like to thank her professors, her family, and her friends for their support and encouragement through her years at Towson.

Alexandra DeGraw Alexandra DeGraw of Bel Air, Maryland will be graduating with honors and dual certification in special and elementary education. Throughout her time at Towson, Alexandra served on the Douglass House Building Council and the Honors College Leadership Council, worked as a resident assistant in Marshall Hall, and as a desk attendant at the Outdoor Adventure Center. After graduation, she will be teaching social emotional learning special education to fourth graders at the White Oak School in Baltimore County. Of her experiences in the Honors College, she most appreciated the discussion-based learning, the many research opportunities, and the emphasis on service-learning integration. She would like to thank her many dedicated professors, advisors, friends, and family for the tremendous support and love they have so generously shared with her. Alexandra gives extra special thanks to Mrs. Lenore Chapman and her past students at Sandy Plains Elementary for helping her realize and achieve her passion in social emotional learning.

Alicia DePasquale Alicia DePasquale of Phoenix, Maryland will graduate with honors, earning a degree in healthcare management and a minor in business administration. After graduation, Alicia intends to move to Atlanta, Georgia to pursue an employment opportunity. She completed a 600-hour internship with MedStar Health during her senior year. Alicia is grateful for the support she received from the Honors College and would like to thank Dr. McCartney for her encouragement and advocacy.

Anda Dia Anda Dia is from Silver Spring, Maryland and will graduate with honors, earning a degree in psychology. After graduation, Anda plans to work full time as a behavior technician with Little Leaves Behavioral Services for a year before pursuing graduate school. She is extremely passionate about working with children in the mental health field and is grateful for each of her psychology professors for their contributions in her education and desired career path. She appreciates all of the experiences and opportunities she was able to have in all of her four years at Towson due to the Honors College staff and faculty. She would like to thank her mother for being her biggest supporter and an encouraging and motivating force not only throughout her college career, but entire life. She would also like to thank her brother, extended family and friends both on and off campus for their continued support.

Kierstin Ekstrom Kierstin Ekstrom is from Silver Spring, Maryland and will graduate with degrees in political science and economics with honors in the latter. In the fall she will be attending the University of Illinois for a masters in agricultural and consumer economics. Her favorite part of the Honors College experience was participating in interdisciplinary classes and research. Her thesis, advised by Dr. Seth Gitter of the economics department, explores the impact of conflict migration and economic shocks on government trust in the DRC. Her research has been presented at multiple conferences and received the Research Impact Award in 2019. She would like to thank the professors and staff that made her experience at Towson so unique and enjoyable.

Maria Darla Esteban Maria Darla Esteban has lived in the area for most of her life but originally comes from Ligao City, Philippines. She graduates with her B.S. in nursing with plans to receive her licensure during the summer. During her time at Towson’s nursing program, she was part of the Towson University Student Nursing Organization and was inducted into Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. Working with Professor Curran and Dr. Sessions revealed her love for research, which she plans to pursue in the future. A very special thanks to Dr. Sessions for making her success possible, and to her friends, who provided the caffeine and motivation when necessary.

Emma Feeney Emma Feeney, from Baltimore, MD, will graduate with honors from Towson University with a degree in exercise science. After graduation, Emma will continue to work as an orthopedic medical scribe while pursuing acceptance in physician assistant school. Emma is extremely thankful for each member of the Kinesiology Department and the Honors College who advised her and challenged her academically during her college career. During her time at Towson, Emma completed internships with MedStar (Sparks, MD) and with Sacred Road (White Swan, WA), and served as a YoungLife in Baltimore County.

Christeen Fernando Christeen Fernando came to Towson from Elkton, Maryland and graduated with degrees in communication studies and religious studies. During her time at Towson, Christeen completed four internships, was a vice president of the COMM club, President or the Religious Studies club, and received the Jamie Parker memorial scholarship for her community service work. She would like to thank her professors, advisors, friends and family for helping her make the most of her time at Towson.

Melissa Flint Melissa Flint is from Ellicott City, Maryland and will be graduating with honors in May 2020, earning degrees in French and psychology and a minor in women’s and gender studies. Because of her French major, she was able to study abroad in Paris and Aix-en-Provence, France which helped inspire her post-graduation plans. She will be returning to Towson for the Masters of Arts in teaching program to pursue a career path in teaching French. Throughout her time in the Honors College, she enjoyed all of the opportunities for leadership that she experienced like being an Orientation Mentor, Recruitment Officer and especially her time as Student Director. She would like to thank the staff and her fellow Student Directors for making the Honors experience great, as well as Honors faculty members for having some of the most interesting seminar courses.

Caroline Forsyth Caroline Forsyth is from Severna Park, Maryland, and will graduate with honors, earning a degree in business administration, with a concentration in international business, with minors in marketing and French. During her time at Towson she was a member of Sorority, and served as Vice-President of Operations. She also served as a Student Ambassador and was the Athletic Mascot during her Freshman year. For two years, Caroline was a Resident Assistant, in the Douglass House Honors Community and Residence Tower. Caroline also was an active traveler, and went on three study abroad programs during her time at Towson. She would like to thank her parents, friends, and professors for their support during her college career.

Angela Mariana Gallardo Mariana Gallardo is a dedicated student graduating with honors, earning a bachelor’s degree in Spanish education K-12. She has built many fond memories while at Towson as a member of the College of Education Dean’s Advisory Council and as a TU Presidential Ambassador. She’s proud of many moments such as representing Towson University alongside President Kim Schatzel at the Maryland State House. Her happiest memories have been those that she has been able to make with all of the students she’s worked with since freshman year in college. They’ve brought great joy to her and they are the reason she comes in smiling into the classroom every day. She is looking forward to the work she will be doing with students as a Spanish teacher and her ultimate dream for the future is to help provide equitable education to all children. She wants to thank all the people who supported her in her journey especially her mom Angela, her sister Camila, her brother Antonio, her best friend Kareem and her mentor Dr. Cole. She would like to end it with saying that love, respect and hard work will lead us all to success. Congrats to all!

Connor Gephart Connor Gephart is from Harleysville, Pennsylvania and will graduate with Honors, earning a Bachelor’s of Science in computer science and mathematics with a track in cyber security. After graduation, Connor will attend graduate school studying Security Informatics at . Highlights of his undergraduate career include helping to run the ballroom dancing club, the cyber defense team, and presenting his work at local security conference, BSides Charm. He was also fortunate to receive the CyberCorps Scholarship for Service through the university. He would like to thank the faculty of both the computer science and mathematics department for helping him throughout his undergraduate career. He would also like to thank his family and friends for their support and love over the last four years.

Rebecca Goldman Rebecca Goldman ’20 is graduating with a B.S. in elementary education & special education. She worked throughout her studies, with a work-study job in the Center for the Arts and multiple restaurants jobs in the greater Towson area. Rebecca credits the Honors College for allowing her to make connections with her fellow students and pursue interesting coursework alongside her studies and work. She shares that through Honors “I was able to have class sizes as small as six students, and classes that took me on camping trips to see coal mining or beach trips to assist people with Autism Spectrum Disorder, all while meeting the requirements for graduation. The Honors residence halls made for countless late-night shenanigans while the classes helped me delve further into my interests while adding more experience into what I can bring to the table as a teacher.” Rebecca is currently weighing job offers as a special educator or a general educator in multiple counties in Maryland, and she credits her experiences at TU for preparing her as an educator.

Nicole Goodman Nicole Goodman is from Baltimore, Maryland and will graduate with honors, earning a degree in sociology and anthropology with a concentration in Criminal Justice, and a minor in Psychology. After graduation, Nicole will start her three-year master’s degree program at Towson University. Nicole will be studying school psychology with the goal of becoming certified by the third year. She was offered and accepted the instructional technology and literacy graduate assistantship Position at Towson University. What she appreciated most about being in Towson University’s Honors College was the connectedness. With smaller classes, students were able to become close with advisors, professors, and this created a positive university experience. Nicole studied abroad in Scotland during her Junior spring semester and when she returned, she earned two research assistant positions during the Summer. During her senior year, Nicole was an intern at the ProBono Counseling Project. She would like to thank the staff and faculty at the Honors College, her professor Dr. Douglas Pryor, and her family for all the support throughout her college career.

Samantha Grace Samantha Grace is from White Marsh, MD, and she will graduate with a degree in psychology and a minor in Biology. After graduation, Samantha plans to go back to school at the Community College of Baltimore County to complete the necessary training in order to become a certified medical laboratory technician. What she appreciated most about being in the Honors College was living in Douglass House for her first two years as a college student and being able to take interesting seminars on topics that included disability representation in the media and the history of infectious diseases. Samantha is a member of the Psi Chi International Psychology Honors Society. She would like to thank her family and friends for all of the support during her time in college.

Kelsey Guerinot Kelsey Guerinot grew up in Columbia, Maryland. She will be graduating with honors and earning her Bachelor’s degree in Special Education with a concentration in Middle School Mathematics. She has received scholarships for her academic abilities and passion for teaching. Kelsey was recognized for her high academic standing and strong teaching potential by being selected as a Teacher of Promise in Maryland. After graduation, she will be a Special Educator at Julius West Middle School in Montgomery County, Maryland. While at Towson, Kelsey was a sister in , a Presidential Ambassador, the President of the Council for Exceptional Children, and a member of the Dean’s Advisory Board for the College of Education at TU. She enjoyed living in Douglass House for three years and interacting with the outstanding Honors College staff and advisors. Kelsey would like to thank all of her amazing Honors and COE professors that enriched her college experience, as well as her family for all of their support.

Colin Hamill Colin Hamill is from Baltimore, Maryland, and will graduate with honors, earning a degree in physics. After graduation, Colin will be attending Purdue University to earn a Ph.D. in planetary science where he will study potential exoplanet atmospheres in the novel Johnson Cloud Lab. During his time at Towson, Colin researched properties of galaxy halos and worked as a learning assistant for a variety of astronomy classes at Towson. He worked as an intern at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory where he studied and published a paper about volatile deposits on the planet Mercury. Colin was also the Outreach Coordinator for Towson’s Society of Physics Students where he ran an after-school science education program at an elementary school in Baltimore City during his senior year. He loved the diversity of classes that the Honors College had to offer and all of the wonderful professors who taught them. He would like to thank all of his past professors, his mentor Dr. Scott, and his family for always pushing him to do his best.

Dymond Hamlin Dymond Hamlin is originally from Roosevelt, New York and currently resides in Waldorf, Maryland. She will graduate with honors earning her bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in Spanish. After graduation, Dymond plans on attending Towson University’s counseling psychology M.A. program while working as a graduate assistant for the Health Center. During her time at Towson University, she served on the executive board of multiple organizations including the Black Student Union, Towson Freedom School, and the Mu Mu Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Additionally she was awarded third place for her presentation at the Celebration of Scholarship and Learning which was titled, “Controversies of Criminal Justice: The Challenges of Reentry”. She would like to thank Dr. Danice Brown, Dr. Leonie Brooks, her mentor and 2019 Honors College Graduate Tyra Fields-Maynard, her friends, and her family for supporting her throughout her undergraduate career.

Erica Han Erica Han from Mt. Laurel, NJ will graduate as a student-athlete with honors. She will earn a degree in biology with a functional biology of animals concentration. After graduation, Erica plans on taking a gap year while applying for medical school; during her gap year, she will continue to work as a certified nurse assistant. Erica particularly loved the small class sizes of Honors College courses, as it involved more discussions. She felt that her voice could be heard by not only her professors, but also her classmates; she valued those opportunities the program provided her. Erica was the team captain of the Women’s Golf team for both her junior and senior years. She would like to thank her family members, her friends, and the staff of Towson University for helping her succeed throughout her academic and athletic careers.

Elena Harnish Elena Harnish hails from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and will graduate with honors, earning her B.S. in Psychology. After graduation, Elena will return to Towson University to pursue a Master's in clinical psychology and continue research on the effects of chronic physical illness and disability. Within the Honors College, Elena most appreciated the wide range of seminars that challenged her to go outside of her comfort zone. She would like to thank all of her wonderful professors, her advisor Dr. Fracasso, and her family for all the support and guidance throughout her undergraduate career.

Madeleine Henderson Madeleine Henderson is from Silver Spring, MD, and she is graduating with a degree in political science and a degree in international studies with honors. After graduation, Madeleine plans to buy a Scottish Highland cow. At Towson University, Madeleine undertook many projects including research on the history of Queerness in Southern Africa, the persecution of the Uyghur Muslims, immigration reform at the American Southern border, the role of religion in reproductive healthcare, and more. She presented some of her past research at the VCU Student Research Conference in 2018. She is finishing her fourth year as a body image peer educator at the Counseling Center, and is incredibly grateful for the experience she had with the group. She would like to thank her family and friends for supporting her through this college experience. Stella Hendricks Stella Hendricks, born in Brooklyn, NY and raised in Baltimore, MD, will graduate with a degree in art + design with a concentration in sculpture. During her time at Towson she fondly remembers participating in Towson Freedom School, Project Serve, an Alternative Break Connections trip to Philadelphia, and studying in St. Croix Virgin Islands through the National Student Exchange program. Her favorite honors college experience was a service- learning project in an Honors Education class where she tutored elementary students through Reading Partners. While attending Towson she has been able to utilize her love of art and community in internships at The Baltimore Museum of Art through the Souls Grown Deep Foundation and The Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery as a part of the first annual ‘Because of Her Story’ program. Stella placed in the top 3 during the past two Celebration of Scholarship and Learning events for presentations on her internship work and was a recipient of the Franklin and Alice Cooley Scholarship for the Fine Arts in 2019. After graduating she will continue her internship at the BMA and hopes to continue creating and using art to reflect social issues, inspire healing and bring communities together. She would like to thank her family, friends, and advisor Jon Lundak for supporting her over the years.

Rachel Hoban Rachel Hoban is from Gambrills, MD, and will graduate with honors, earning a degree in international business. During her four years at Towson, Rachel was a member of the Women's Swimming and Diving Team, and specialized in the Individual Medley. She also held marketing intern positions for both Stanley Black & Decker and MileOne Autogroup. Rachel deeply appreciates the sense of community in the Honors College, and attributes her success to the skills she has learned from Honors classes and workshops opportunities. After graduation, Rachel will be taking on an area manager position with Amazon in Hanover, MD. She would like to thank her family, friends, coaches, and professors for their constant support throughout her years at Towson.

Lisa Huang Lisa Huang is from Perry Hall, Maryland, and will graduate with honors, earning a Bachelor’s of Science in nursing. She is a member of the Iota Epsilon chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Society of Nursing. While at Towson, Lisa was an active member of the Towson University Student Nurses’ Association (TUSNA) and held the public relations chairperson position in Fall 2019. Through the Honors College, she had the opportunity to build on her knowledge and skills of research, which will be applicable during her nursing career. She would like to thank her parents, friends, and professors for their endless support throughout her college career.

Lely Huang Lely Huang from Perry Hall, Maryland will graduate with honors, earning a Bachelor’s of Science in nursing. After graduating and earning her nursing license, she will work on an oncology unit at a hospital located in Baltimore, Maryland as a registered nurse. She is a member of the Iota Epsilon chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Society of Nursing. At Towson University, Lely was an active member of Towson University Student Nurses’ Association, serving as the fundraising chair in Spring 2019 and community service chair in Fall 2019 and Spring 2020. She most enjoyed collaborating with surrounding organizations in the Towson and Baltimore area to provide meaningful volunteering opportunities for nursing students. What she most appreciated about being in the Honors College was the supportive professors who taught her meaningful and eye-opening courses. She also greatly appreciated the independent research opportunities she was able to pursue during her time at Towson. She would like to thank her family, friends, and professors for their endless love and support throughout her college career.

Alexis Irby Alexis Irby will graduate from Towson University with honors, double-majoring in art education and art + design, with a concentration in the fine arts. After graduation, she plans to continue her education with the goal of one day teaching art at a college or university. During her time at Towson, Alexis participated in multiple teaching internships in Baltimore City schools. She would like to thank all of the faculty at Towson and her family, who have helped her perform at her best ability for the past five years.

Safiya Jennings A native of Durham, North Carolina, Safiya Jennings, will graduate with honors (Summa cum laude) with a degree in electronic media and film concentrating in film, video and digital media from the College of Fine Arts and Communication. After graduation Safiya plans to work in the field of film and documentary production and hopes to pursue a graduate education in film. Safiya completed part of her Honors academic requirements with a minimester study abroad in Ghana, and she won first place in the study abroad category at the Celebration of Scholarship and Learning poster conference. What she appreciates most about the honors college are the many ways it pushes students to challenge themselves. One of her favorite college experiences was serving on a panel for the Political Imagination of Diversity Symposium where she presented her own research. She is a member of the Alpha Alpha class of Lambda Kappa Tau Media Production Society. Safiya would like to thank her family who have given her endless love and support throughout her time at Towson.

Bria Johnson Bria Johnson, from Salisbury, Maryland, will graduate honors, earning a degree in Spanish with a concentration in secondary education and a minor in international studies. After graduation, Bria will start her teaching career with a full time Spanish teacher position in Montgomery County. Bria took advantage of the service learning opportunities provided by the Honors College, and used it to help her expand to other opportunities--such as her study abroad trip to Spain and her involvement in the Model Organization of American States. In her time at Towson, Bria involved herself with volunteer and job opportunities to support the Towson and Baltimore communities, ranging from her job as a resident assistant in Residence tower, ESOL volunteering, volunteering with Reading Partners, and student teaching at Middle River Middle School and Owings Mills High School. Bria was awarded the Distinguished Leadership and Engagement award by the foreign languages department for her dedication to the Spanish and to learning and engaging with Latin culture. Bria would like to thank her family and friends for their love and support, Honors College staff and faculty, and specifically Dr. Ebacher for pushing her to take on challenges and opportunities.

Marlie Johnson Formerly homeschooled Baltimore County native, Marlie Johnson, is graduating with honors, earning a Bachelor of Science in electronic media and film with a concentration in film/video/digital media, all but one of her semesters graced with making the highly prestigious Dean’s List. In her freshman year, Marlie was inducted into both the Honors College and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. During her junior year, Marlie wrote and directed a short mockumentary entitled "For Future Generations" that went on to be accepted into festivals including the 2019 College Homecoming Showcase, a film festival comprised of the top Maryland-collegiate films shown at the historic SNF Parkway theater. At her internship for The City of Frederick’s Communications Department, Marlie wrote and directed a P.S.A. In her senior year, Marlie became the President of the National Broadcasting Society – Alpha Epsilon Rho, Towson Chapter. Also, during this time, she conducted research for a short film titled "Forgive Me". Although production was derailed due to the current crisis, the research poster titled, “Inside the Stigma: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Suicide in Law Enforcement Officers” won the Audience Award at the Honors College Celebration of Scholarship and Learning. She offers thanks, foremost, to God, family, and friends.

Connor Kean Connor Kean is from Brunswick, Maryland and is a biology major with concentrations in ecology, molecular biology, biochemistry, and bioinformatics. During his time at Towson, Connor worked at the Writing Center and was a member of both the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology club and the Towson club baseball team. Indulging his interest in research, Connor spent two summers as a research intern at the Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine where he helped to advance biomedical genetics projects. At Towson, Connor worked with Dr. Kimble investigating a genetic basis for viral immunity in Eastern Box Turtles, which culminated in being awarded a John David Horst Memorial Award for best undergraduate research project. In addition to Honors College faculty and staff, Connor would like to thank his Fisher College professors, specifically Dr. Doyle and Dr. Kimble, for their kindness, support, and guidance. After graduation, Connor will be completing a yearlong post-baccalaureate research fellowship at the National Institutes of Health while concurrently applying for graduate school in pursuit of a Ph.D. in Biology.

Avanti Kolluri Avanti Kolluri hails from Rockville, Maryland, and will graduate with honors, earning a B.S. in Biology. Avanti is an active member of the Towson University Research Enhancement Program. She plans to complete a service year before pursuing her further education. During her two years at Towson University, she enjoyed getting to know the counselors and professors. She enjoyed meeting new people through the honors program, especially a few of her closest friends. Erin Lemonds Erin Lemonds is from Eugene, Oregon and will graduate with honors, earning her B.S. in speech-language pathology and audiology. After graduation, she will attend graduate school at the University of Washington in the speech-language pathology medical SLP program. During her time at Towson she was a volunteer leader with the ministry of Young Life, where she worked with young adults with disabilities. She was also a member of the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association. She would like to thank her parents for their unending support throughout her college career.

Alyssa Lennon Alyssa Lennon is from Huntingtown, MD and will graduate with honors, earning her B.A. in international studies with minors in political science and German. Alyssa has greatly enjoyed working as a writing assistant at the Towson Writing Center and as editor-in-chief of the Towson Journal of International Affairs. In addition to the Honors College, Alyssa also found opportunities for on-campus involvement within the University Residence Government, in which she was a building representative. For her final semester, she completed an internship with Rowman & Littlefield Publishing Group in Lanham, MD. Following graduation, Alyssa intends to start graduate school this fall pursuing a degree in public policy. She would like to thank her parents for their continued support throughout her college career as well as her professors for their meaningful guidance and mentorship.

Juliet Magee Juliet Magee ’20 is graduating with a B.S. in business administration with a concentration in financial planning concentration. She was an active member of the campus community throughout her time at TU: she was an executive board member of the Brazilian Jiujitsu club, vice president of professional development for the co-ed business fraternity, and a member of the Women in Finance club and the club tennis team. Juliet also cultivated her professional experiences through multiple internships at financial planning firms and as a student worker in the Honors College offices. She had several full-time job offers prior to graduation and will begin working at Legacy Financial Group upon graduation, while also pursuing her Certified Financial Planning certification. Her Honors experience was transformative for Juliet in other ways: she lived in Douglass House as a freshman and met her best friend there, and later in her studies studied abroad for a spring academic term in Shanghai, China for Honors credit. Juliet wanted to share that “Everyone is welcoming at the Honors College. The classes tend to be more conversation driven by the students that allows for the free flow of ideas. I have met a lot of great people from the Honors College!”

Sarah Malik Sarah Malik is from Baltimore, Maryland. She will be graduating with honors, earning a degree in mass communication with a concentration in journalism. After graduation, Sarah will return to the Honors College to as the Graduate Assistant. While spending her time at the Honors College, Sarah appreciated the faculty and staff that were so resourceful. Sarah studied abroad in London, England for corporate communication, completed an Honors internship at WBAL-TV 11 and an Honors independent study regarding the redesign of them journalism department’s student-produced news site and user interface. Sarah would like to thank the Honors College staff for making her experience memorable, enjoyable, and exciting as she continues her journey with the Honors College.

Derek Margulies Derek Margulies, from Baltimore, MD, will graduate with departmental honors in mathematics. After graduation, Derek plans to work for one year before returning to school to pursue an advanced degree. During his time at Towson University, Derek pursued multiple research projects, became president of Math Club, studied abroad in South Korea, had an internship with the Army Research Laboratory, and received the Undergraduate Research Impact award for his research in college basketball analytics. The award helped him develop the project into a departmental honors thesis and share his research at the Joint Mathematics Meetings, the largest national mathematics conference, in Denver, Colorado. He thanks the Honors community, researchers at the Army Research Laboratory, and his research advisors, Drs. Christopher Cornwell and Alexei Kolesnikov, for presenting him with opportunities to develop into a promising researcher. He would also like to thank his friends and family for their love and support throughout his college career.

Kelsey Marlette Kelsey Marlette has enjoyed her four years at Towson University and is excited to graduate with a degree in forensic chemistry. After graduation, she looks forward to beginning graduate school at Towson University. She would like to thank all of her family, friends, and professors who have supported her along the way.

Hannah Martin Hannah Martin is from Perry Hall, Maryland and will be graduating with honors, earning a degree in cell and molecular biology with a minor in molecular biology, biochemistry, and bioinformatics. One week after graduation, Hannah will begin a two-year physician assistant graduate program at Arcadia University. During her time at Towson University, Hannah worked full time as the lead medical assistant and office manager at a local urgent care while also coaching youth softball and field hockey. She would like to thank her family and friends for their love and support throughout her college career.

Asli McCullers Asli McCullers will be graduating from the Towson University Honors College with a B.S. in biology with a minor in music performance. During her time at Towson University, Asli participated in a plethora of activities and programs on campus, including Marching Band, Diverse Minds Peer Education Program, Honors College Leadership Council, Admissions Ambassadors, Towson Opportunities in STEM, Tri Beta Biological Honor Society, International Music Fraternity, and MUCH more! Off campus, Asli continued to expand her horizons, as she participated in internships at University of Maryland School of Public Health, Susan G Komen Maryland and the Maryland Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities. She also participated in volunteer programs at Greater Baltimore Medical Center, St. Joseph’s Medical Center, and the Immune Deficiency Foundation. After graduation, Asli is excited to pursue a career in Public Health, and her next step will be participating an NIH funded Post-Baccalaureate Research Program at University of Massachusetts Medical School with a focus in Clinical and Population Health. Asli couldn’t be happier the decision she made to attend Towson University four years ago, and she would like to thank the entire Towson community for making these some of brightest years of her life!

Zari McCullers Zari McCullers hails from Frederick, Maryland, and will graduate with honors, earning a degree in cell and molecular biology with minors in Music Performance and MB3 (molecular biology, biochemisty, and bioinformatics). After graduation, Zari will start a NIH post- baccalaureate program in biomedical science at the Lousiana State University Health Sciences Center - New Orleans. Things she appreciated most about being in The Honors College include life in Douglass House, unique class choices, and the friendly community. Zari received advanced experiential learning credits for research she completed at a summer internship with the Alabama Coopertive Extension System (Summer 2019) and on Towson's campus in the biochemistry department (September 2019 - March 2020). Zari was proud a member of the Towson University Marching Band, among many other campus organizations. Zari was a 2020 recipient of the Vice President of Student Affairs Award. She would like to thank all of the staff, students, and friends of the Honors College. She will miss them dearly as she takes on the next stage of her life.

Leah McLean Leah McLean hails from Silver Spring, MD and will graduate with honors, earning a degree in sociology/anthropology – Criminal Justice. After graduation, Leah plans to attend Elon Law School, where she will pursue her JD while achieving her goal of becoming an attorney and going into prison reform. What she appreciated most about being in The Honors College were the professors and smaller class sizes within the honors seminars Joseph studied abroad in London, was the social events co-chair (2017-2018), Vice President (2018-2019) and president (2019-2020) of the Caribbean Students Association, secretary of the Mock Trial Club, a Community Center Assistant, a SAGE mentor & Undergraduate Assistant, co-coordinator of the UJIMA collective, a member of the Sigma National Criminal Justice Honors Society, and a recipient of the Marion B. Hoffman Ethical Leadership Award. She would like to thank all of the staff at the Honors College, her mentor Mr. Raft Woodus, and her family for helping her throughout his college career.

Jacob McLean Jake McLean left Encinitas, California to obtain a degree in business administration with honors. After graduation, Jake is deciding between going back to Towson to obtain a master’s degree while playing a fifth year of lacrosse or starting his career in Southern California. Jake was a captain of the 2020 Men’s Lacrosse team and earned Male Scholar Athlete of the year for Towson University. He appreciates the fond memories he has created in the classroom with fellow Honors students and professors. Jake would like to also thank his coaches, advisors, teammates, and friends who have been supportive and inspiring throughout the entirety of his education. Go Tigers!

Samuel Mejia Samuel Mejia comes from Rockville, Maryland, earning a degree in psychology with a concentration in clinical psychology, minoring in Spanish, and graduating from the Honors College. After graduation, Samuel will be pursuing positions in educational settings before applying for school counseling graduate programs. While in the Honors College, Samuel enjoyed the advanced service learning honors seminar in issues in Latino immigration, the study abroad program in Salamanca, Spain, and his internship at a child psychiatric unit. During graduation, he will be the College of Liberal Arts’ banner carrier and is excited to represent his major, friends, and family. Samuel wishes everyone good luck for the future and thanks those in the Honors College, College of Liberal Arts, and his personal life who helped him on this academic journey. Ericka Meyer Ericka Meyer is from Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, and will graduate with honors, earning a degree in health science with a minor in Environmental Studies. In the summer of 2019, Ericka studied abroad in Australia and New Zealand. In the spring 2020 semester, Ericka completed an internship with the American Red Cross, serving as the Service to the Armed Forces Regional Casework Lead. During her time at Towson, Ericka was a member of the Alpha Phi Omega National Service Fraternity. After graduation, Ericka plans to pursue a master’s degree in public health. What she appreciated most about being in The Honors College was the ability to broaden her perspective and take seminar classes about diverse topics outside her area of study. She would like to thank the Honors College and all of her professors for their help and support throughout her college career. She would also like to thank her family members and friends for their continued love and support.

Lauren Miles Lauren Miles is from Ellicott City, Maryland, and will be graduating with honors, earning a biology degree and a minor in Spanish. After graduation, Lauren plans to continue her internship and the National Institutes of Health, specifically at the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute under the division of Scientific Review. She plans to pursue a Master’s degree in and then apply for medical school in order to pursue her career goal of becoming an orthopedic surgeon. She loved being a recruitment officer for the Honors College, and having the opportunity to interact with her fellow Honors College students as well as prospective students. Lauren won 2nd place in the research category at the Honors College Spring Celebration of Scholarship and Learning and also received an Undergraduate Research Grant for her research on small proteins. She was also the Programming and Sponsorship Executive Member for the TU Big Event and the Communications Manager for the TU Figure Skating Club. She wants to thank her family and friends, her research mentor Dr. Matthew Hemm, and everyone who was a part of her college experience.

Michaella Mulhern Michaella Mulhern will graduate with honors, earning degrees in art history and art + design. In addition to her classes, Michaella worked as a CCA in Carroll Hall and has served on the board of many organizations including the Art History Association, University Residence Government, National Residence Hall Honorary, and Phi Honors Fraternity. Michaella studied abroad in Florence, Italy in the spring semester of her junior year, where she was a docent for Santa Maria Novella Cathedral. Some of her greatest accomplishments include making Dean’s list every semester, and winning first place at the Celebration of Scholarship and Learning for her Study Abroad experience. Michaella has loved her time at Towson, and would like to thank the Art History Department for being there for her and helping her passion for art history grow. Finally, she would like to thank her family, who have supported her in every endeavor. She could not have asked for a better college experience.

Jonathan Ocadiz Jonathan Ocadiz hails from Perry Hall, Maryland, will graduate with Honors, earning a degree in international studies. After graduation, he plans to pursue graduate school in the field of Library Science, particularly at the University of Maryland: College Park. He also plans to explore federal career opportunities in the fields of diplomatic service and academic research, with particular emphasis in the U.S State Department and Library of Congress. What he appreciated the most during his time in the Honors College was that of the numerous opportunities and resources that helps one to achieve experiences outside of the classroom that are relevant to one’s career pursuits. He presented at multiple research conferences in both the Towson and greater Baltimore area that focused on a variety of subjects, ranging from the geopolitical influence of the International Maritime Organization to Spanish history. He also studied abroad in the summer of 2019 in the Czech Republic. He is a member of the International Student Association, Historian for Sigma Delta Phi and Secretary of Undergraduate Research Club. He wishes to extend his deepest thanks to the Honors College Staff, Dr. Fox, Rio, Dr. McCartney, my friends and family to helping me make it here.

Mabintou Ouattara Mabintou Ashley Ouattara, a first-generation college student from Silver Spring, Maryland, will graduate with honors, earning a degree in sociology & anthropology with a criminal justice concentration. After graduation, Mabintou plans to spend a year gaining real world experience through an internship in addition to studying for the LSAT. She will be attending law school in the fall of 2021. During her time at Towson, Mabintou enjoyed living in Douglass House for her freshman and sophomore year where she met a number of her closest friends. What she appreciated most about being in The Honors College was the opportunity to partake in unique courses on a wide range of subject matters. One of her greatest accomplishments includes making the Dean’s list for four consecutive semesters. While at Towson, she was inducted into the National Society of Leadership and Success as well as : The National Criminal Justice Society. She also served as the Vice President of Freshman Council and Co-Director of Special Events for the Black Student Union. Mabintou would like to thank her loving mother Joana Fonka and her advisor Dr. Abram Fox, among other family and friends for helping her throughout her college career.

Stephanie Papetti Stephanie Papetti is from Atlanta, GA, and will graduate with honors, earning a degree in occupation and well-Being. After graduation, Stephanie will be continuing with the graduate program for occupational therapy at Towson University with ambitions to work in pediatrics. What she greatly valued about the Towson Honors College was the community of students she got a chance to work regularly with and get to know while living in Douglass House and taking Honors seminars. During her time at Towson, she has served in the past as secretary and VP for the Towson Badminton Club. She would like to thank her family for always supporting her throughout her undergraduate career.

Samuel Pomerantz Samuel is a BFA in acting major from Stevensville, MD, and will be graduating with honors. After graduation, it is Sam’s ambition to continue searching for work as a performing artist in an as of yet undetermined metropolitan area, whilst endeavoring to get his works, typically forays into imaginative fiction, published. For the Honors College, Sam wishes to extend his gratitude, especially for providing some of the most interesting, thought-provoking classes he experienced in his time at Towson University. A favorite memory of his is the production he directed this past Spring, “Three Skeleton Key”, a joint project between the theatre department and Honors College, as a part of his Experiential and Learning credits. During the summer of 2018, Sam had the chance to work as a production assistant on three television shows for the Food Network out in Los Angeles, acquiring an extensive knowledge of the industry into which he will soon be embarking. He would like to thank his Honors advisor, Dr. McCartney, as well as all of the professors with whom he has studied, be it a part of his major or beyond.

Jillian Procope Jillian Procope is from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, and will graduate with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in mass communication after following the public relations track. As an Honors College student, Jillian enjoyed all of the various honors seminars, and found it difficult to select a topic each semester because of the great variety! During her time at Towson, Jillian interned abroad, worked on campus in the Study Abroad office, served as the president of her sorority, , as the Vice President of Recruitment for the Panhellenic Association, and as the President of the Order of Omega Greek Honor Society. She also performed in multiple musicals and plays with Actors Anonymous. Jillian was the recipient of the Matthew Lenno Integrity & Involvement award from the Towson University Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life, and was recognized as an Honored Mass Communications student. She would like to thank the Honors College staff and faculty, the Greek life staff, and her family and friends for helping her and cheering her on throughout her college career.

Diana Reed Diana Reed grew up in Ellicott City, Maryland, and will graduate with honors, earning her degree in English. After graduation, she plans on pursuing her master’s at TU. She appreciated the Honors College as a support network that allowed her to reach ever higher. Diana participated in the Honors College's Not Your Granny's Book Club. She would like to thank the Honors College faculty and staff, her thesis advisor Dr. Erin Fehskens, and her family for all their support and belief in her abilities.

Julianna Reed Julianna Reed is from Haddonfield, New Jersey, and will graduate with honors, earning a Bachelor of Science in exercise science with a minor in deaf studies. After graduation, Jules will continue her education at the to pursue her Doctor of Physical Therapy and a Master’s of Science of anatomy and clinical health science. During her time at Towson, she worked as a Supplemental Instruction Leader for Anatomy and Physiology as well as a physical therapy technician at local clinic. Jules was fortunate to work as a research assistant to Dr. Ashley Santo, where she was involved in multiple studies focused on concussion evaluation tools in physically active college students. She would like to thank the professors who challenged her, her coworkers who fostered a love of physical therapy, and her friends and family who provided support and encouragement throughout her education. Most especially, Jules would like to thank Dr. Santo, for not only providing an invaluable experience and unexpected opportunities, but also for stimulating a brand-new interest in research.

Zoey Resnick Zoey Resnick is originally from Westminster, Maryland. She is graduating with honors, earning her B.S. in accounting. During her time at Towson University, she has been named to the Dean's List every semester and has held the Bursar position for her sorority. She has also held two internship positions. One as an invoicing intern at Allegis Global Solutions in Hanover, Maryland, and the other as an internal audit and enterprise risk intern at KPMG in Baltimore, Maryland. After graduation, she will work full-time for KPMG as an Audit Associate. Zoey would like to thank her family and friends for the unconditional support throughout her college career.

Nicholas Reveille Nicholas (Nick) Reveille will graduate summa cum laude with a B.S. in exercise science and a minor in music performance. Nick has been heavily involved during his time at TU: he has participated in marching band, pep band, symphonic band, men’s choir, saxophone choir, Phi Mu Alpha (served as warden), , and the field hockey club. Additionally, he has done independent study under Dr. Landers-Ramos and Professor Dondero studying the effects of exercise on circulating angiogenic cells, arterial stiffness, and muscle thickness. Nick has earned the Outstanding Senior in Exercise Science Award for the 2019-2020 school year. He would like to thank his major advisor, Dr. Parr, his mentors Dr. Landers-Ramos and Professor Dondero, all of his professors, and all of his friends and family for all of their support. He plans to apply to physical therapy schools this coming fall to pursue a DPT or a dual DPT/PhD program starting summer of 2021.

Gina Rinaldi Gina Rinaldi is originally from Bel Air, Maryland and will graduate with Honors, graduating with a degree in psychology and a double minor in linguistics and LGBT studies. After graduation, Gina will pursue a career as a mental health worker and obtain a doctorate in law. What Gina appreciates most about the Honors College is the advisors and support they provided to the members of the Honors College. Gina was the president of the Queer Student Union, was involved in all of the LGBT student groups on campus throughout college, and was the recipient of the LGBT Studies Minor Award. Gina interned at Kennedy Krieger Institute and found the experience to be invaluable for their future career in mental health. Gina would like to thank family, friends, faculty, and staff for helping Gina in their college career.

Sophia Ross Sophia Ross hails from Glenelg, Maryland and will graduate with honors, earning a bachelor’s degree in family studies-human services. After graduation, Sophia plans to pursue employment in the aging field. In the future, Sophia plans to pursue a master’s degree in social work, focusing on macro social work and aging. As a social worker Sophia plans to work towards an equitable future for LGBT* older adults at a local, state, and national level. During her time at Towson, Sophia founded the Towson University Social Work Club in the Fall of 2018, and was the Social Media Chair for the Towson University Student Council on Family Relations. Sophia valued the community and friends she gained from living in Douglass House, partaking in honors courses, and honors seminars. Lastly, she would like to thank her family for their love and support during her time at Towson.

Valentina Ross Valentina Ross will graduate with honors, earning a degree in music education. Valentina will begin her studies at University of Maryland, Baltimore this fall to earn her master's in social work. What she most appreciates about the honors college was getting to work with such wonderful professors. She discovers many passions and career goals from the honors courses she took with professors who were effective, brilliant, and available. Valentina would like to thank all of the staff at the Honors College for her wonderful college experience.

Molly Rozelle Molly Rozelle is from Moorestown, NJ, and will graduate with honors, earning a degree in speech-language pathology and audiology, with a minor in deaf studies. While at Towson, she served as a volunteer leader for Young Life Capernaum and was an active member of the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association. Through the honors college, Molly participated in an internship as a student clinician at Towson University’s Speech and Language Center. Along with this opportunity, Molly most appreciates the hands-on learning experience she received from the honors college seminars, especially the service-learning courses. After graduation, she plans to attend Indiana University to earn a master’s degree in speech-language pathology. Molly would like to thank her family, friends, the Towson faculty, and the support of the community that helped her succeed during college.

Olivia Saliger Olivia Saliger is from Anne Arundel County, Maryland and will graduate with Honors, earning a bachelor’s degree in environmental science and studies. While at Towson, Olivia had 3 internships and conducted 3 research projects centering on water quality, fish biology, and phytoplankton. Two of Olivia’s research projects were presented at academic conferences, where both won awards. Olivia’s favorite internship experience was her dual-research program with Maryland Sea Grant and Chesapeake Research Consortium. During a 2-day research cruise along Delmarva coastline, Olivia conducted research on eutrophication’s effect on phytoplankton. Olivia was very active within the Towson community. She was the founder, president, and coach for Club Swim for 4 years. Olivia is extremely grateful for each member’s hard work as the team recently received 2020’s Club of the Year Award. Olivia was also a Resident Assistant in Prettyman/Scarborough for 3 years. Olivia particularly enjoyed the opportunity to help freshmen residents transition into college. After graduation, Olivia will continue pursuing her love of marine ecosystems through joining a master’s program in Conservation Management following her gap year. Olivia would like to thank her family and advisor Dr. Salice for their support and guidance during her career at Towson.

Marella Schammel Marella Schammel (Baltimore, MD) will be graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry. During her time at TU, Marella served as a Research Assistant for the Chemistry Department, presenting her research at seven regional and national conferences and serving as a co-author on two peer-reviewed publications. She was a member of the Honors College and served as a teaching assistant, peer tutor, and was president of Towson’s chapter of the Student Affiliates of the American Chemical Society. She was also the recipient of several local and national awards including the Greater Washington Institute of Chemists Student Award, the American Water Works Association SUEZ/Vernon D. Lucy II Scholarship, the American Chemical Society Undergraduate Student Award in Environmental Chemistry, and the Barry Goldwater Scholarship. After graduation, Marella will be pursuing her PhD in Environmental Engineering at the University of Southern California.

Katrina Schmidt Katrina Schmidt, from Columbus, Ohio, will graduate with honors, earning a degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, and bioinformatics with several minors. Katrina plans to pursue a career in medicine following graduation. She completed two distinct research projects, both resulting in thesis presentations, and she wishes to thank both mentors, Dr. Michelle Snyder and Dr. Annette Budzinski-Luftig, for their continual support. For this research, Katrina received many grants including the Research Impact Grant. She would like to thank the honors college, her advisors, her family, and her friends for the impact they made through her academic career.

Annemarie Schnoor Annemarie Schnoor hails from Red Bank, New Jersey, and is graduating with honors and a degree in biology. After graduating, she will be working in a Johns Hopkins outpatient clinic as a medical scribe, where she will be shadowing physicians and gaining experience in the medical field. After a gap year, Annemarie will be applying to physician's assistant graduate programs. She most appreciated the advisors and faculty of the Honors College who helped make her time here at Towson memorable and meaningful. She served as an Honors College recruitment officer, was a captain of the Women's Swimming and Diving team, and served as vice president of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee. Annemarie would like to thank her teammates, friends, and family who loved and supported her the past four years.

Holly Scolari Holly Scolari is from Pine Hill, New Jersey and will graduate earning a degree in chemistry. After graduation she is planning on getting a chemistry job in Baltimore. During her years in the Honors College she most appreciated being a part of the Honors Helping Hands group and her study abroad experience in Amsterdam. Holly would like to thank everyone who helped her get to where she is today.

Nicholas Shelly The Honors College really has broadened his understanding of the world. He did not go abroad, write a theses, or have an internship, however, in taking Honors classes he learned things he would have never before. He wrote a children book, completed an academic study, visited an ex-utopian society, and learned how to take care of himself. Each 370 class taught him unique things I would have never learned elsewhere within a special environment surrounded by others who wanted to learn.

Julia Simak Julia Simak is from Ellicott City, MD and will graduate with honors, earning her B.S. in speech-language pathology & audiology. After graduation, she will attend graduate school in the fall at Towson University in the speech-language pathology program to obtain her M.A. During her time at Towson, she was a member of the Women’s Ultimate Frisbee Team. She also had a strong interest and passion in learning languages. Coming in as a bilingual in Russian and English, she picked up American Sign Language through the classes offered at Towson. What she appreciated most about being in the Honors College were the close-knit, challenging seminar classes offered by the Honors College. She loved being able to have a discussion-focused classroom setting in which she could freely express her views on diverse, controversial topics. She would like to thank her mom, dad, and brother for their love and support in helping her through her college career.

Jacob Snyder Jacob Snyder hails from Lansdale, Pennsylvania, and is named an outstanding graduate of the college of business and economics. He was awarded the finance faculty rising star scholarship for his excellence in his studies concerning a degree in finance. After graduation, Jacob will pursue a career as a financial analyst. Jacob was the goaltender for the Men’s Ice Hockey team, while also serving as an assistant captain and being the treasurer of the program. He would like to thank his family and all the faculty within the Honors College for supporting him throughout his college career.

Chan Staples Chan is a Maryland native from Severna Park, graduating with honors and earning a degree in computer science with a focus of cybersecurity. Chan thoroughly enjoyed his time at Towson University in the Honors College and will be working at Jacobs Engineering as a software developer post-graduation. Chan was the Vice President of , the social officer of the Ultimate Frisbee club, and an active member of the UMTTR club. Chan is grateful for his family, friends, professors, and advisors that supported him and his education at this prestigious university. Go Tigers!

Jacqueline Taylor Jacqueline Taylor, born and raised in Maryland, will be graduating with honors and a deaf studies degree this May 2020. After graduation Jacqueline will be entering a career in deaf services in the Baltimore region and she is hoping to pursue a M.A. in a niche of this career field. What she enjoyed the most about the Honors College were the variety of seminars offered each semester. She described the seminars she took as fascinating, challenging, and most of all fun. She appreciates all of the Honors College Professors who helped her through her courses. Her freshman year was spent living in Douglass house alongside her Honors peers and she has missed the like-minded company since she changed to a commuter. Despite this, she continued to remain close with fellow honors students through her classes. Jacqueline studied abroad to Scotland in the 2019 winter minimester and describes it as her favorite life experience through TU. She is grateful to the Honors College because without the classes offered specifically to honors students, she may have never taken ASL and would not have discovered her passion for Deaf Studies so quickly.

Abigail Thornsberry Abigail Thornsberry is from Houston, Texas. She graduates from the Honors College earning a dual degree in deaf studies and speech language pathology and audiology. Over the summer, she will begin working towards a Masters of Education in Language and Literacy with an emphasis in Deaf Studies/American Sign Language (ASL) from Boston University. During the spring of 2019 she completed a semester as a visiting student with Gallaudet University where she had an immersive experience in sign language and the Deaf community. Upon completion of her master’s, she hopes to pursue a career supporting young deaf children through delayed language acquisition. Abigail thoroughly enjoyed her years at Towson. She was very active with Cru and served as a campus ministry leader for the organization during her senior year. Abigail would like to thank all of the friends, faculty and staff at Towson who invested in her and helped her to succeed. She would like to thank God for blessing her time at Towson and making every step possible. Finally, she would like to thank her family who faithfully supported and encouraged her to do her best and pursue her dreams no matter what.

Sophia Thrappas Sophia Thrappas will graduate with a B.S. in health science and promotion and a B.A. in foreign languages. During her time at TU, she studied abroad in Guatemala and Ecuador, obtained a certificate in teaching English to speakers of other languages, teaching English as a second language, and teaching as a foreign language, and completed an internship at the Y in Central Maryland Baltimore County Head Start. She was also selected as a Fulbright alternate candidate for an English teaching assistantship in Spain and plans on reapplying for the 2021-2022 academic school year. Until then, she will we be looking for employment in the public health field, specifically in the sector of maternal child health. She would like to thank all of her advisors, especially Dr. Fox and Ms. Villamar, for their continued support throughout her time at TU.

Alison Tippett Alison Tippett hails from Marriottsville, MD, and will graduate with honors, earning a Bachelor’s of Science in nursing. After graduation, Alison will be a medical/surgical RN at GBMC on a telemetry unit. What she appreciated most about being in the Honors College were the professors and the community that comes with it. Alison was director of philanthropy in her sorority, Alpha Phi, and was a Foundation Scholar. She would like to thank all of the Honors College staff and her family for supporting her throughout her college career.

Paul Umemezie Paul Umemezie is graduating with honors and will be earning his Bachelor of Science degree in biology, with a concentration on the functional biology of animals. Paul was the Treasurer of the Pre-Med club, and he also successfully defended his research thesis, titled “The use of geomorphometrics in the study of Acropyga ants and their symbiotic relationship with mealybugs”. What he appreciated most about being in the Honors College were the Honors seminars, the motivation to go beyond what is typically expected of college students, and the networking opportunities that were provided. After graduation, Paul plans to get his master’s degree in public health with a specialization in biostatistics. He would like to thank all of the staff at the Honors College, the Biology Department, and his friends and family members for assisting him throughout his college career.

Daniel Venable Daniel Venable was born in Galveston, Texas, but currently resides in Hershey, Pennsylvania with his family. He will graduate with honors and a Bachelor’s degree in music education. After graduating, Daniel anticipates accepting a job teaching Maryland’s future music students before pursuing a master’s degree in administration. What he appreciated most about being in the Honors College is the friendships he made while living in Douglass House. Daniel is the recipient of the 2019 Friedmann-Gordon music performance competition, the 2019 talent award competition, 2019 Greek Fraternity President of the Year, was the president of Towson’s Phi Mu Alpha chapter, was drum major of the marching band for two years, and was a leader in Towson’s concert ensemble percussion sections. He would like to thank all staff and faculty of the Honors College, for teaching me so much about how to be a leader and a thinker. He especially wants to thank Dr. Melissa McCabe, Honors College advisor, for helping guide him through his internship.

Caralyn Wegrzyniak Caralyn Wegrzyniak is from Ocean Township, New Jersey, and will graduate with honors, earning a degree in speech-language pathology and audiology and a minor in applied adult disability services. After graduation, Caralyn will attend graduate school at Loyola University Maryland to receive her master’s degree. During her time at Towson, Caralyn was the Service Vice President for Alpha Phi Omega, a co-ed service fraternity, and the Director of Internal Affairs for TigerTHON, a dance marathon that raises money for Johns Hopkins Children’s Center. She would like to thank all of her family and friends for their continued support over the past four years.

Alexandria Wilhelm Alexandria Wilhelm originates from the town of Centreville on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. She will graduate with honors, earning her Bachelor of Science Degree in mathematics with her certification in secondary education. After graduation, Alex will be teaching 7th grade mathematics at Bel Air Middle School in Harford County. During her time at Towson, she was a member of the Mathematics Education Club and Towson UTeach Cohort. She volunteered with multiple programs and organizations including TU’s Hussman Center for Adults with Autism as well as the Reading Partners Program. Alex worked with various faculty from the mathematics department to take two presentations to five different conferences. She has received numerous recognitions including membership in Kappa Delta Pi and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars as well as awards such as the Kahlert Foundation Scholarship and the Fisher College of Mathematics Reza Sarhangi Memorial Scholarship. Alex would like to thank her family and friends for their love and support throughout her four years at Towson.

Kayla Wittman Kayla Wittman will graduate in the spring of 2020 with honors and a degree in English with a track in creative writing. Kayla plans to move to New York in the next year to advance her writing and poetry career. She is grateful for the amazing staff and professors she met through the honors college and as she works to better her own writing hopes to return and teach the next generation of college students.

Hunter Wright Hunter Wright is from Apex, NC, and will graduate with honors, earning a degree in computer science. After graduating Hunter will start his job at Cisco. He swam 4 years on Towson's swim and dive team.

Ny’esha Young Ny’esha Young is from Prince George’s County, MD. Ny’esha will be graduating with honors, earning her B.S. in political science. During her time at Towson, she was a resident assistant, presidential ambassador, student ambassador, and Honors recruitment officer. Ny’esha was also able to complete internships at the Maryland General Assembly, Society for Human Resource Management, and a gubernatorial campaign. Ny'esha appreciated the Honors upper-level seminars the most during her time at Towson. After graduation, Ny’esha plans to continue her work in the field of policy and law, with the ultimate goal to attend law school. Ny’esha will be the commencement speaker at the College of Liberal Arts commencement ceremony. Ny’esha would like to thank the Honors College, Political Science Department, Housing and Residence Life, and her family for helping her grow into the person and leader she is today.