Florida State University will welcome its latest incoming class of nearly 6,000 first-year students this fall as the new academic year begins Monday, Aug. 24.

The Class of 2030 arrives as Florida State celebrates its 175^th anniversary and builds on momentum in student success, entrepreneurship, research and FSU Health, FSU’s integrated academic health system.

“Florida State University has never had more momentum,” FSU President Richard McCullough said. “We’ve set records every year over the last five years in student success, research and impacts on our community, and this freshman class will be an integral part of that continued success and momentum. It’s one of the best times of the year to see all the students moving in and the campus populated by so many people. It’s just so fun to be here at Florida State University.”

FSU received more than 96,000 applications for its first-year class, a 12% increase from the 2024-2025 application cycle. The admitted class included students from all 50 states, all 67 Florida counties and 55 countries, representing more than 2,700 U.S. high schools.

This year’s admitted students posted an average core GPA of 4.5, average SAT score of 1430 and average ACT score of 32. Additionally, 92% ranked in the top 10% of their high school classes, and 80% earned A/B grades. The five most popular areas of study among admitted students were business, engineering, biology, exploratory and political science.

Florida State continues to break its own graduation and retention rate records, strengthening its position as a national leader in student academic success. Last year, the university retained first-year students from their fall to spring semester at a record 99.2% rate, among the highest in the country. FSU also ranks among the nation’s top four public universities for its first-year retention rate, with 97% of students returning for their second year.

FSU offers a variety of pathways for first-year students. More than 600 students will start their FSU experience at Tallahassee State College through FSU Next, and approximately 300 students will begin their studies abroad at one of FSU’s four study centers through First Semester Abroad or First Year Abroad.

The start of the academic year also brings new faculty and academic leaders, expanded programs and continued investment in the student experience. Some notable items:

Students

• FSU’s graduate programs will enroll about 3,200 new students this fall, bringing total graduate enrollment to nearly 11,000 students across the university. The university received more than 16,000 graduate applications for the fall semester.
• This year, 6,300 students will live in one of FSU’s 18 on-campus residence hall complexes, including nearly 4,550 first-year students. University Housing offers a variety of living options for undergraduate and graduate students, including 11 Living-Learning Communities (LLCs) that will house more than 700 first-time-in-college students this year. Students living in LLCs are advised by faculty from one of the colleges or FSU’s Division of Undergraduate Studies. Earlier this year, FSU started construction on the northwest side of campus for a new residence hall, dining hall and parking garage.
• FSU continues to invest in programs for high-achieving students. The Presidential Scholars Program, FSU’s premier undergraduate merit scholarship, will welcome a cohort of 60 first-year students, while more than 780 students will join the University Honors Program. Nearly 700 Honors students will live in on-campus residence halls this academic year.

Faculty and academics

• For the fourth consecutive year, more than 200 new faculty have joined FSU since the start of the previous academic year.
• FSU also welcomed several new academic leaders this summer. Gregory Bell joined the university in July as dean of The Graduate School. Kirk Foster began serving as dean of the College of Social Work on Aug. 17. Assistant Provost and Marketing Professor Mike Brady has been appointed interim dean of the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship. Meanwhile, the university is searching for its next dean of the College of Law as Dean Erin O’Hara O’Connor prepares to step down.
• Florida State University continues to expand its academic offerings with several new programs this fall, including new online MBA majors in Healthcare Administration and Alternative Investments and Finance through the Wertheim College of Business, an undergraduate program in Interdisciplinary Design through the College of Fine Arts, an undergraduate degree in Civics and Liberty Studies, a one-year graduate program in Data and Society and new undergraduate majors in Intelligence Students and Emergency Management through the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy, and FSU Panama City’s undergraduate Clinical Professions major through the College of Medicine.

New around Tallahassee and upcoming events

• From everyday travelers to fans arriving for FSU gamedays, campus tours or move-in week, anyone passing through Tallahassee International Airport can now step onto the turf and snap a photo with a 7-foot, hand-painted aluminum replica of FSU’s flaming spear. #PlantTheSpearTLH
• The FSU Health Research and Collaboration Building will open later this fall on the Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare campus, providing space for clinical research, laboratories and a family medicine residency clinic, creating new opportunities for education, patient care and scientific discovery.
• “Welcome FSU” offers events and activities to kick off the fall semester through Saturday, Aug. 29. These events give students opportunities to learn about campus resources, get involved and make FSU and Tallahassee feel like home.
• FSU Nite, Florida State University’s official welcome event and pep rally, kicks off the academic year at 8 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23, at Langford Green with performances by the Marching Chiefs, FSU Golden Girls & Company Dance Team, FSU Cheer, other spirit groups and DJ Demp.
• The FSU football team opens its season at Doak S. Campbell Stadium against New Mexico State at 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 29. Students are invited to the first Garnet & Gold Tailgate of the season from 4-6 p.m. at the Union Green.

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Florida State University awarded honors medallions to 548 high-achieving graduates during the spring 2026 Medallion Celebration at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center.

The FSU Honors Program supports the efforts and talents of some of the university’s most intellectually curious students who have the potential, dedication and drive for creating change.

The celebration included remarks by Associate Dean of Honors, Scholars, and Fellows D. Craig Filar and Dean of Undergraduate Studies DeOnte Brown.

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Florida State University’s Honors Program was ranked No. 1 in Florida by the college ranking publication College Transitions, a resource for high school students and college counselors and the primary source for honors college rankings.

On its 2026 list of “50 Best Honors Colleges,” College Transitions ranked FSU No. 17 nationally among all honors colleges and programs.

While some universities offer separate honors colleges, FSU offers a comprehensive program designed to meet student needs. The program placed No. 6 among honors programs on College Transitions’ list using methodology that considers selectivity, benefits and program rigor.

“Our Honors Program has seen so much exciting growth in the past few years, thanks to President McCullough’s visionary investments,” said DeOnte Brown, dean of Undergraduate Studies. “We’re proud to offer a vibrant community that nurtures highly inquisitive students, engages them in a dynamic academic experience with their peers and prepares them for a future where they can thrive out in the world.”

The Honors Program has grown during McCullough’s tenure from about 400 per class before 2023 to more than 800 in the Fall 2025 class. It is the only Honors program in Florida that has a dedicated faculty who design Honors Signature Courses — interactive, interdisciplinary classes available exclusively to Honors students.

Ten full-time Honors faculty members offer courses on a variety of topics such as superheroes and ethics, coffee and culture in the U.S. and gaming in the ancient world.

“I’m so grateful for the dedication of our faculty and staff across campus who mentor, teach and support our remarkable students every day,” said Joe O’Shea, vice president for Student Academic Success. “We are honored to serve the brightest scholars from across Florida and elsewhere so they can thrive as leaders in their fields and strengthen the future of our communities.”

“The Honors Program at FSU was such a meaningful part of my undergraduate experience. It gave me incredible professors and engaging courses, but most importantly, an amazing community and friendships that lasted throughout my time at Florida State.”

– Hayley Schermer, FSU Honors graduate

Former Honors student Hayley Schermer, who graduated in December with a cell and molecular neuroscience degree, is working as a patient care assistant in the Neuro and Cardiac Intermediate Care Unit at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare while she prepares to start medical school in the summer.

“The Honors Program at FSU was such a meaningful part of my undergraduate experience,” Schermer said. “It gave me incredible professors and engaging courses, but most importantly, an amazing community and friendships that lasted throughout my time at Florida State.”

Students can live in Honors housing in one of two centrally located residence halls and have dedicated program advising. They have access to classrooms, study spaces, gathering areas and resources such as advising, the Office of National Fellowships and the Center for Undergraduate Research and Academic Engagement in the Honors, Scholars, and Fellows House.

More than 200 students are enrolled in Honors in the Major, an opportunity within the Honors Program that provides students from any major the chance to engage in graduate level research, either with an original thesis or creative project.

Last summer, the Honors Program debuted its new Honors Global Experiences program in London, where 15 students traveled with Honors Associate Director Michael Furman to explore the city and surrounding areas while taking the Honors Signature Course “In the Footsteps of the Ancients: Roman Britain.”

Hayden Thomas is a senior political science and economics Honors student from Tampa who is studying abroad at the FSU London Study Center and interning at a United Kingdom policy organization.

“The Honors Program gave me a community of intellectually curious student leaders who pushed me to grow academically, professionally and personally,” Thomas said. “That foundation made it possible for me to pursue transformative opportunities, including serving as president of the Honors Student Association, conducting research through Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program and Honors in the Major, and engaging in immersive professional experiences.”

To provide more opportunities for students, FSU has also doubled the size of its Presidential Scholars Program in recent years. Presidential Scholars is FSU’s premier undergraduate merit scholarship program that invests in students who stand out for their potential to be transformational leaders.

There are now 60 students admitted to each class of the Presidential Scholars Program, where students engage in a four-year sequence of learning and community engagement that focuses on four foundational tenets: wisdom, leadership, service and character.

On top of the generous scholarship funding, students in the program receive financial support for enrichment opportunities such as international study or service, internships, research and creative projects, and more.

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Hayley Schermer, a fourth-year College of Medicine cell and molecular neuroscience major, has spent the past two years immersed in research through Florida State University’s Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), a Directed Individual Study (DIS) and an IDEA Grant.

During her time at FSU, she worked in the lab of Department of Exercise Physiology’s Linda Grizzard Owens Endowed Professor Robert Hickner. There she investigated how exercise influences sleep quality in pre-diabetic, postmenopausal women. As part of a four-week exercise program, she monitored participants’ health data using Oura Rings and surveyed them to assess psychological changes.

Beyond the lab, Schermer is making an impact in the Tallahassee community. She founded the New Horizons Network, a nonprofit dedicated to helping job seekers. Through résumé workshops at the Kearney Center, she has created, printed and distributed 30 resumes — giving individuals the tools they need to pursue employment opportunities.

Why did you choose Florida State University?

I chose to attend Florida State University for many reasons, but what really stood out to me was the strong sense of community. When I visited, the tour guides made FSU feel welcoming right away, and they were actually the reason I applied to the Honors Program. Talking with them, I could tell that FSU was not just a school, it was a place where students supported each other and took pride in being part of something bigger.

Another big factor in my decision was Florida State’s impressive resources for students pursuing medical school. I knew I wanted to go into medicine, and FSU offered everything I needed to be supported on that path.

There is something so special about being surrounded by students who love where they go to school and show up for each other, not just in the classroom, but at games, events and everywhere in between.

FSU felt like the right fit from the moment I stepped on campus. It had everything I was looking for: strong academics, a supportive community and a campus culture that made me feel right at home.

What are some of your academic achievements while at FSU?

One of my greatest accomplishments during my time at FSU was my IDEA Grant project. Assisting in Professor Hickner’s lab for almost two years has taught me so much and working with postmenopausal women in the lab has been an incredible experience. As I got to know more about the challenges they face during this stage of life, I realized I was inspired. My mom, who is currently perimenopausal, opened up about her sleep issues, and that is how my IDEA Grant project came to life.

My IDEA Grant project is titled “The Impact of Exercise on Physiological and Psychological Indicators of Sleep Quality in Pre-Diabetic Postmenopausal Women.” We are especially curious to see whether their biological data aligns with how they feel, or if there are any discrepancies. I am really hopeful that our findings can make a difference. Menopausal women are such an understudied group, and I am proud to be working on something that could potentially help improve their quality of life.

How do you serve the FSU community?

My most meaningful community service experience has been co-founding New Horizons Network, a program aimed at helping the jobless population of Tallahassee. What has really made this experience meaningful are the conversations I have had with the people we serve. Hearing their stories, how their lives took unexpected turns and how hard they are working to get back on their feet has been incredibly moving.

One moment that really stuck with me was working with a Jamaican immigrant who came to the U.S. chasing the American dream but faced unexpected challenges that led to homelessness. He was actually the very first person we got to help through our program. A few weeks later, he returned to the Kearney Center wearing his new Waffle House uniform and gave us both a big hug, thanking us for helping him get back on his feet.

That moment reminded me why this work matters. I truly believe New Horizons Network has the potential to change lives. Not only are we helping people find jobs and regain stability, but we are also creating space for conversations that break down harmful stigmas surrounding joblessness.

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Annie English, a criminology and psychology student in the Florida State University Honors Program is an Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) leader, IDEA Grant recipient and Honors in the Major student. English uses her research experiences and involvement at FSU to teach and mentor fellow undergraduates about research.

As a leader in her sorority, she gives back to the FSU community by helping her fellow sorority sisters with community engagement, academic resources and finding opportunities at FSU. Through research and leadership, English’s commitment to service remains a highlight of her FSU experience.

Why did you choose to attend FSU?

From a young age, I knew I wanted to spend my life studying the criminal mind. I have encouraging parents who stopped at nothing to help me follow my dreams and foster my curiosity. In high school, when it came time to search for colleges, I discovered that FSU had one of the top criminology programs in the country. FSU quickly became my dream.

I heard stories from friends and family about the many academic opportunities that FSU had to offer, so FSU seemed like the obvious choice. I was admitted for the summer term and never looked back. I feel attending FSU was never a “choice” for me; it was always the goal.

What academic achievements are you most proud of?

I participated in UROP during my second year at FSU. I worked with a faculty mentor to conduct research about the presence of hostile men in online communities. I had the privilege of presenting our work at the Undergraduate Research Symposium in spring 2024. UROP increased my involvement at FSU and improved skills that led me to new opportunities.

After participating in UROP, I was empowered to further involve myself in undergraduate research. I am working on an Honors in the Major project on how perceptions of juvenile deviance are influenced by music genre preferences. I received an IDEA Grant to fund my research, and I am grateful for the guidance and support of so many incredible and intelligent mentors and faculty.

How have you served the FSU community?

The first significant contribution I feel I have made to FSU is my involvement in the Center for Undergraduate Research and Academic Engagement (CRE) as a UROP leader. For the past two semesters, I have taught a UROP colloquium of students eager to get involved in research at FSU.

Beyond academics, I also was selected by the executive board of my sorority, Chi Omega, to serve as the 2025 Director of Career and Personal Development (CPD). This role gives me the opportunity to assist my sisters as they navigate their undergraduate experiences. The day-to-day workload as the CPD director involves individual advising, where I help them with resume writing, LinkedIn profiles, class schedules, financial literacy and personal well-being.

Working as the CPD director has allowed me to not only learn how to help in many situations, but it has also been a reminder that spending time with others in different fields is beneficial, and that there is so much to learn.

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The Florida State University Honors Program hosted its inaugural Honors in the Major (HITM) faculty reception, recognizing faculty members who mentor undergraduate students in undertaking independent and original thesis-based scholarship.

The event celebrated the faculty mentorship that plays an integral role in students’ HITM experience.

“We are grateful for the dedicated faculty who mentor undergraduate researchers,” said Michael David Franklin, associate director of the HITM program. “This celebration is a chance to recognize the time and expertise the faculty invest in shaping future scholars and professionals through the honors thesis project.”

HITM students assemble and work with a faculty committee to select a topic, develop a prospectus, complete a written document based on their original scholarship or creative project and ultimately defend their project orally before their committee.

Currently, 220 students and 168 faculty members participate in the HITM program. By working closely with faculty, students develop professional relationships that help foster their growth as researchers and future professionals.

“Our Honors in the Major students take control of their learning and explore topics beyond what is required,” said Carrie Ann Baade, Department of Art painting and drawing area head and professor. “This can lead to innovative thinking, original research and creative problem-solving. Honors students are not just conducting research, they are redefining how we approach knowledge and creativity.”

HITM projects cover a variety of topics and have explored early detection of Alzheimer’s, the role of artificial intelligence in health care, the impact of pet ownership on mental health, the effect of music on memory and more.

“Honors in the Major allows students to think critically about their research,” said Andrea U. De Giorgi, a professor of classics and an expert in Roman urbanism who has worked at excavations in Italy, Turkey and Jordan. “It opens the door to professional research, allowing them to take a scholarly interest and develop it into something meaningful.”

HITM is open to any FSU student who has been admitted to their major and meets eligibility requirements. The program provides an opportunity for students to incorporate the knowledge and skills learned throughout their undergraduate career into a senior project.

“In our department, Honors in the Major makes students feel like real artists and academics, doing things that matter — not just in the real world, but in research and culture production,” said Daniel Luedtke, assistant professor and area head of printmaking and book arts in the Department of Art.

At the end of the semester, participants defend their theses before faculty committees. Students who successfully defend their thesis and complete HITM are recognized by the distinction of graduating “with honors,” which is designated on the students’ transcript and degree.

For more information about the Honors in the Major program, visit honors.fsu.edu or contact Associate Director Michael Franklin at HITM@fsu.edu.

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Honors student Kieran Stenson engages in the FSU community by serving as a mentor for incoming freshmen and conducting research. Stenson is an IDEA Grant recipient and an Engage 100 leader. He finds joy in supporting students and guiding them to research opportunities.

Why did you choose to attend FSU?

FSU was the first university I toured that felt right. The campus was beautiful, and I was impressed by the plethora of opportunities and programs offered to undergraduates. The Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, the University Honors Program, Engage 100 and InternFSU—all these programs piqued my interest and showed me that FSU was an institution that offered its students the chance to make something of their college experience. The campus culture was also welcoming and felt alive in a way that other universities did not. In many ways, FSU just seemed like the right place to be for me.

What is your most significant academic achievement?

The biggest research project I have undertaken during my time at FSU has been my thesis. Working with professor Jonathan Grant, I have spent the better part of a year writing my undergraduate thesis, which analyzes the rhetoric of the Polish Constitution of 1791. It has been a fantastic experience, as I received an IDEA Grant and spent five months in Poland conducting research.

Another remarkable experience I’ve had at FSU was teaching an Engage 100 course with professor Claudia Liebeskind for incoming freshmen interested in history. Being an Engage 100 leader was a fantastic way to learn from an experienced educator and work on my lesson planning and classroom management skills. These experiences, and many others, have been pivotal during my time at FSU.

How have you served your community outside of FSU?

Outside the classroom, one of my favorite contributions to my community has been serving on the editorial board for the Florida Undergraduate Research Journal. This volunteer experience taught me about the process of editing and publishing papers for a research journal. Furthermore, it was immensely rewarding to help fellow undergraduates publish their research. It was a highly rewarding and beneficial experience for everyone involved.

How have you made an impact on the FSU community?

I have contributed to FSU through my work as a peer mentor and an honors colloquium leader. Through these mentorship opportunities, I have educated incoming freshmen about the opportunities offered to FSU students and help guide them through their first semester of college. I believe incoming students benefit from having an experienced undergraduate to use as a resource, and I have tried to be that for my students.

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Florida State University awarded honors medallions to 24 high-achieving graduates during the Aug. 1 Medallion Ceremony in the Nancy B. Marcus Great Hall.

The FSU Honors Program supports the efforts and talents of some of the university’s most intellectually curious students who have the potential, dedication and drive for creating change.

The ceremony included remarks by Michael Furman, associate director of the University Honors Program; Joe O’Shea, associate provost and dean of Undergraduate Studies; Sophie Davis, dual honors graduate; and Jeanne N. Curtin, immediate past chair of the National Board of Directors of the FSU Alumni Association.

The breakdown of the honors awardees is as follows:

16 graduates, University Honors Program
Completed the University Honors Program, earning at least 18 honors points in fulfillment of the FSU Honors Program requirements.

4 graduates, Honors in the Major Program
Completed an honors thesis in fulfillment of the requirement for the distinction “with honors” in their major.

3 graduates, Dual Honors
Completed both the University Honors Program and the Honors in the Major Program.

1 graduate, Outstanding Senior Scholar
Completed both the University Honors Program and the Honors in the Major Program, with a 3.9 cumulative GPA or higher.

The honors medallion recipients, along with their hometowns, academic majors and award designations are listed by state and city below:

CONNECTICUT

New London

Nicholas Ilvento, Political Science; International Affairs, University Honors

FLORIDA

Belleview

Elise Miller, Biological Science, University Honors

Clermont

Sophie Davis, Literature, Media & Culture, Dual Honors

Coral Gables

Owen Landry, Creative Writing; German, Honors in the Major

Key West

Thomas Winegarden, Criminology, University Honors

Lake Worth

Noelle Knowlton, Editing, Writing & Media, University Honors

Miami

Gabriella Behar, Political Science, University Honors

Sofia Gonzalez, Community Patient Care, Dual Honors

Naples

Darius Agollari, Biochemistry, Honors in the Major

Ocala

Savannah Cherepanik, Nursing, University Honors

Orange Park

Liam Woolard, Economics; International Affairs, University Honors

Orlando

Indira Columbie, Criminology, University Honors

Carson Combs, Economics; Statistics, Outstanding Senior Scholar

Ormond Beach

Maddox Weaver, Economics, University Honors

Perry

Urvish Patel, Biological Science, University Honors

Sanford

Joelyz Wolcott, Behavioral Neuroscience, Honors in the Major

Sarasota

Hannah Lee, Cell & Molecular Neuroscience, University Honors

Tallahassee

Sari-Grace Chaback, Psychology, University Honors

Madeline Feiock, Clinical Professions, University Honors

Sonu Patel, Exercise Physiology, University Honors

Kendall Smith, Biomathematics; Computational Biology (Computer Science), Dual Honors

Tampa

Olivia Zorrilla, Sport Management, University Honors

Windermere

Gabriel Valvassori De Jesus Silva, Economics; Finance, Honors in the Major

ILLINOIS

Peoria

Sarah Mayer, Nursing; Public Health, University Honors

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A dynamic blend of academic achievement, athletic dedication and community engagement has marked Skylar Ruffner’s Florida State University journey.

Initially drawn to FSU by the opportunity to pursue academic and athletic goals, her involvement in the university’s Honors Program and Women’s Swimming and Diving team has been transformative.

Ruffner’s immersion in research, particularly within the Hammock Lab, has yielded significant contributions to the field of neuroscience. Her work focuses on oxytocin’s role in postnatal brain development.

Additionally, she has made substantial community contributions through her role as a volunteer diving coach and her involvement in the pre-medical chapter of Phi Delta Epsilon, FL Zeta, where she serves as historian.

Through her multifaceted endeavors, Ruffner exemplifies a commitment to excellence, service and scholarly inquiry that enriches both the FSU community and the broader Tallahassee area.

How did diving impact your decision to come to FSU?

I was recruited to FSU as a 10-meter platform diver. I chose to attend the university after learning about the plethora of academic opportunities available and the outstanding athletic community at FSU. I was particularly impressed with FSU’s Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) and the amazing faculty within the neuroscience department. Through my experiences both in the recruiting process and applying for the Honors Program, FSU truly shined as a one-of-a-kind school where I could achieve both my academic and athletic aspirations. Although moving across the country was a difficult journey, I am beyond grateful for the opportunities I have had through FSU and have thoroughly enjoyed my experience as both a student and athlete.

How has the Honors Program contributed to your academic pursuits?

My most significant research project while at FSU is my honors thesis under associate professor of psychology Dr. Elizabeth Hammock, within the Hammock Social Neuroscience Lab. I have been a part of the Hammock Lab since the Summer 2022 semester and have helped in various research projects during my time while learning new laboratory skills and molecular techniques. Through the Honors in the Major Program, my research focuses on oxytocin (OXT) as a modulator of experience-dependent development through social touch circuitry. Our research has implications for when there are deficits in OXT signaling, which may be connected to atypical sensory-social responses associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Through the Honors in the Major Program, I have received the Bess H. Ward Honors Thesis Award, which provides funding to cover expenses for my project. I also have been nominated to be endorsed as a candidate for the Barry Goldwater Fellowship by FSU. The Goldwater Fellowship provides scholarships to students who intend to pursue a research career in natural sciences, mathematics and engineering. Being endorsed as a candidate by FSU has provided me the opportunity to expand upon my research interests with the intent of pursuing a Ph.D. or MD-Ph.D. in neurobiology.

Furthermore, I have been a volunteer research assistant within the Eckel Neuroscience Lab, where my foundation of behavioral neuroscience techniques has grown under Lisa Eckel’s guidance, a psychology professor in the College of Arts & Sciences. The research project I am currently involved in focuses on the role of estrogen in attenuating weight gain and women’s health.

How has your research had a positive impact?

The research I have conducted through the UROP and Honors in the Major programs has positively contributed to FSU and the Tallahassee community at large. Through UROP, the research I conducted under Dr. Taryn Wade, program manager for the Steacy-Compton lab, investigated the effects of shared reading on preschool-aged children at risk for language delays. During this study, Dr. Wade and I would go to a local preschool to read story books and simultaneously analyze the children for specific behavioral markers. This allowed us to help children with developmental delays and potentially analyze how we may improve their vocabulary development through the shared reading strategy.

Furthermore, my work within the Hammock Lab has allowed me to conduct high-quality research that supports the social and developmental neuroscience research community. Through my experiences in the Hammock Lab, I have become a mentor to other undergraduate students interested in pursuing a research career. I support my peers by teaching them the laboratory techniques I have learned while working under Dr. Hammock.

How do you give back to the community and stay involved in service-oriented activities?

Beyond the classroom, I was a part of the FSU Women’s Swimming and Diving team (August 2021 – August 2023), where I competed at the Division 1 level as a 10-meter platform diver.

During my time as a student athlete, I devoted 20+ hours a week to practice, competition, athletic training and other athletics-related activities. Additionally, I was involved in numerous community service projects organized under the FSU Swimming and Diving team, such as serving as a volunteer assistant diving coach for the FSU Tomahawk Diving team. I have been responsible for coaching children ages 7-13 and being a mentor through both physical and mental challenges during their diving practices. I have devoted over 50+ hours to coaching for the Tomahawk Diving team. This experience provided me the opportunity to instruct children on how to navigate the innate fear interwoven into the sport of diving, allowing me to give back to the community while growing as a mentor to others.

Additionally, I am a part of the pre-medical chapter of Phi Delta Epsilon, Florida Zeta, and am currently in a chair position as the historian. Phi Delta Epsilon is an international organization that partners with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals as a service partner. Through the FL Zeta chapter, I participate in many fundraising and volunteer events and discuss opportunities within the medical field. As historian, my role is to maintain a record of all events and chapter meetings for 2024 while also regularly updating our social media accounts.

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Florida State University awarded honors medallions to 339 high-achieving graduates during the April 29 ceremony in Ruby Diamond Concert Hall.

The FSU Honors Program supports the efforts and talents of some of the university’s most intellectually curious students who have the potential, dedication and drive for creating change.

The ceremony included remarks by D. Craig Filar, associate dean of Honors, Scholars, and Fellows; Joe O’Shea, associate provost, dean of Undergraduate Studies; Neissa Philemon, dual honors graduate; and Julie Decker, president and CEO of the FSU Alumni Association.

The breakdown of the honors awardees is as follows:

233 graduates, University Honors Program
Completed the University Honors Program, earning at least 18 honors points in fulfillment of the FSU Honors Program requirements.

81 graduates, Honors in the Major Program
Completed an honors thesis in fulfillment of the requirement for the distinction “with honors” in their major department.

17 graduates, Outstanding Senior Scholar
Completed both the University Honors Program and the Honors in the Major Program, with a 3.9 cumulative GPA or higher.

8 graduates, Dual Honors
Completed both the University Honors Program and the Honors in the Major Program.

The honors medallion recipients, along with their hometowns, academic majors and award designations are listed by state and city below:

ALABAMA

Vestavia Hills

Robert Laughlin, Physics, Dual Honors

ALASKA

Anchorage

Martha Cooper, Psychology; Philosophy, Honors in the Major

CALIFORNIA

San Diego

Alexa Brunkow, Accounting, University Honors

COLORADO

Denver

Addison Mitchell, Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences: Clinical Professions; Psychology, University Honors

CONNECTICUT

Tolland

Vanessa Polidoro, Actuarial Science; Economics, University Honors

DELAWARE

Wilmington

Katherine Rolph, Dance, University Honors

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Washington

Louisa Spector, History; International Affairs, University Honors

FLORIDA

Ave Maria

Emilie Widarsson, English (Editing, Writing, & Media); Advertising, University Honors

Beverly Hills

Giovanna Cross, Political Science, University Honors

Eva Rucinski, Behavioral Neuroscience, University Honors

Boca Raton

Eli McKown-Dawson, Political Science, Outstanding Senior Scholar

Emma Drac, Biological Science, University Honors

Jordan Rose, Finance; Biological Science, University Honors

Rose Walters, Commercial Entrepreneurship; International Affairs, University Honors

Bonita Springs

Justin Nightshade, English (Creative Writing); Anthropology, University Honors

Boynton Beach

Aidan Carley, Biological Science; Sociology, Outstanding Senior Scholar

Mia Crossen, Political Science, Honors in the Major

Reuven Lurie, Biological Science, University Honors

Danielle Maresca, Criminology, University Honors

Neissa Philemon, Public Health, Dual Honors

Sydney Richner, English (Literature, Media, & Culture), Honors in the Major

Bradenton

Scott Baker, Physics; Mathematics, Honors in the Major

Taylor Ferber – Nursing, University Honors

Cantonment

Gabriel Pfeuffer-Ferguson, Interdisciplinary Social Sciences, University Honors

Cape Coral

Samantha Strickland, Psychology, Honors in the Major

Celebration

Elizabeth Orraca, Biology; Statistics, University Honors

Citrus Springs

Grace Mason, Behavioral Neuroscience, Honors in the Major

Clermont

Savannah McGregor, Public Health; Sociology, Honors in the Major

Cocoa Beach

Kara Ahr, Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences: Clinical Professions, University Honors

Coral Gables

Catherine Rodriguez Barreda, Cell and Molecular Neuroscience, Honors in the Major

Coral Springs

Tiana Cates, Public Health, University Honors

Lauren Greenbaum, Media Communication Studies; Marketing, University Honors

Gillian Hightower, Biology, University Honors

Crystal River

Morgan Knipp, Biochemistry, University Honors

Dade City

Carolyn Emerson, Meteorology, Honors in the Major

Pierce Thomas, Motion Picture Arts, University Honors

Davie

Chloe Wain, Political Science; English (Editing, Writing, & Media); Economics, Outstanding Senior Scholar

Joshua Weltmann, Biochemistry, University Honors

Daytona Beach

Joshua Zuckerman, Actuarial Science; Statistics, University Honors

Deltona

Gavin Krueger, Political Science; Psychology, University Honors

Genevieve Reynolds, Criminology; Biological Science, University Honors

Fernandina Beach

John Sorensen, Biomedical Engineering, Honors in the Major

Fleming Island

Jaden Hamid, Finance, University Honors

Jack Lyons, Music Performance; Physics, University Honors

Fort Myers

Leilanis Cancel-Lopez, Human Development and Family Science, University Honors

Jamie Guterman, Information, Communication, and Technology, University Honors

McKenzie Miller, Exercise Physiology, University Honors

Jason Puwalski, Political Science; Public Relations, University Honors

Erin Reeves, Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences: Clinical Professions, University Honors

Fort Myers Beach

Richard Hilpert, Psychology, Honors in the Major

Freeport

Diego Mendoza-Jacobo, Exercise Physiology, University Honors

Gainesville

Katherine Buchanan, Criminology; Psychology, University Honors

Rebecca Gilland, Economics; Statistics, Dual Honors

Samantha Santelices, Human Development and Family Sciences, University Honors

Rosalyn Wadsworth, Anthropology, Honors in the Major

Gulf Breeze

Bailey Bouk, Political Science; English (Literature, Media, & Culture), University Honors

Hollywood

Michelle Snyder, Psychology, University Honors

Homestead

Nicole Kidd, Criminology, University Honors

Indialantic

Marlee Krause, Computer Science, University Honors

Indian Rocks Beach

Haley McPherson, Environmental Science & Policy, University Honors

Jacksonville

Justin Aho, History, University Honors

Jasen Belenko, Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences: Clinical Professionals, Honors in the Major

Emily Citrano, Psychology, Honors in the Major

Caroline Giddens, Public Relations; Political Science, University Honors

Bianca Hamm, Communication Science and Disorders, Honors in the Major

Lindsey Loheac, Biological Science, University Honors

Caroline Owen, Linguistics and Languages, University Honors

Hannah Raisner, Political Science; English (Creative Writing), University Honors

Caroline Robbins, International Affairs; Political Science, University Honors

Illeana Sanders, Classical Archaeology; Political Science, Honors in the Major

Jaidyn Smith, Communication Science and Disorders; University Honors

Joshua Soffler, Political Science; Communication, Honors in the Major

Julia Wallace, Marketing; Sport Management, University Honors

Ethan Wood, Chemical Engineering, Honors in the Major

Jupiter

Julia Earnest, Exercise Physiology, University Honors

Kyle Rutter, International Affairs; Economics, University Honors

Kissimmee

Breanna Heflin, Nursing, University Honors

Marielise Torres, Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences: Clinical Professions, Honors in the Major

Lake City

Delaney Williams, Political Science; International Affairs, University Honors

Lakeland

Madison Finley, History; Russian, University Honors

Shanaya Jaitly, Interdisciplinary Social Sciences; Environment and Society, University Honors

Paige Murray, Political Science; Criminology, University Honors

Prerna Ravinder, Interdisciplinary Social Science; Computer Programming, University Honors

Lake Mary

Skylar Klein, Biomaterials and Polymers, University Honors

Jake Langevin, Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences: Clinical Professions, University Honors

Lake Placid

Franco Angeles, Finance, University Honors

Lakewood Ranch

Samantha van der Sommen, English; History, University Honors

Lake Worth

Samantha Mensching, Art History, University Honors

Kristina Robinette, History; Philosophy, University Honors

Cayley Williams, Anthropology, University Honors

Caysey Williams, Criminology, University Honors

Largo

Elena Villamagna, Public Health, Outstanding Senior Scholar

Lauderhill

Roneesha Peltier, Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences: Clinical Professions, Honors in the Major

Leesburg

Kamryn Reynolds, Behavioral Neuroscience, University Honors

Lithia

Alicia Southworth, English Education, University Honors

Cameron Valenti, Economics, Honors in the Major

Lutz

William Pledger, Cell and Molecular Neuroscience, Honors in the Major

Anne Sullivan, Biological Science, University Honors

Macclenny

Brandon Kazmierczak, Computer Science, University Honors

Madison

Kayla Reeves, History, Outstanding Senior Scholar

Melbourne

Elissa Bell, Biological Science; Computational Science, Outstanding Senior Scholar

Julian Kinnaird, Psychology, Honors in the Major

Melbourne Beach

Cassandra Fetkowitz, Behavioral Neuroscience, University Honors

Marco Island

Sarah Nemeth, International Affairs; Economics, University Honors

Miami

Lauren Blackwell, Biological Science, University Honors

Fernando Carrillo, Biomedical Engineering, Honors in the Major

Victoria D’Amico, English (Creative Writing), University Honors

Jacqueline Emmerich, Psychology; Criminology, Honors in the Major

Viviana C. Gutierrez Caimary, Cell and Molecular Neuroscience, University Honors

Gabrielle Hagenlocker, Music Theatre, Outstanding Senior Scholar

Samantha Leon, Finance; Marketing, University Honors

Andrea Lopez, Linguistics and Languages; English (Editing, Writing, & Media), University Honors

Katherine Martinez, Biomedical Engineering, Honors in the Major

Keilly Miranda Torres, Political Science, University Honors

Chloe Patterson, Biomedical Engineering, Honors in the Major

Natalie Rubio, Behavioral Neuroscience, University Honors

Yuliet Sanchez, Nursing, University Honors

Thomas Suarez, Chemistry, Honors in the Major

Marissa Tellam, Psychology; Criminology, Dual Honors

Fatima Verona, Economics; Public Health, University Honors

Milton

Sara Boles, Political Science, University Honors

James Fair, Biological Science, University Honors

Naples

Alexis Amoyo, Computer Science, University Honors

Emma Everding, Computer Science; Environment and Society, University Honors

Grace Larson, English (Literature, Media, & Culture), University Honors

Kayla Mathai, Interdisciplinary Social Sciences, Honors in the Major

Jonathan Oliva-Infante, Political Science, University Honors

Emilie Parry, International Affairs, Theatre, University Honors

New Port Richey

Sarah Evans, Studio Arts, Honors in the Major

Marija Travoric, Computer Science, University Honors

North Port

Colby Nobis, Applied/Computational Mathematics, University Honors

Oldsmar

Sara Friedmeyer, Classical Civilizations, University Honors

Orange Park

James Woolard, International Affairs; Economics, University Honors

Orlando

Delaney Brown, English (Creative Writing), Honors in the Major

Lena Firlotte, Cell and Molecular Neuroscience, Honors in the Major

Nikole Galeano, Biological Science, University Honors

Nye’Dra Holmes, Psychology; Criminology, University Honors

Zoie Iglesias, Communication Science & Disorders, Honors in the Major

Michelle Leibman, Exercise Physiology, University Honors

Carson Long, French, University Honors

Isabella Lyewski, Biological Science, University Honors

Luke Meunier, Studio Art, Honors in the Major

Ashlynn Pope, Music Therapy; Psychology, University Honors

Katelyn Remboldt, Communication Science and Disorders, Honors in the Major

Finn Wright, Computer Science; English (Editing, Writing, & Media), University Honors

Oviedo

Courtney Harrigan, Behavioral Neuroscience, University Honors

Pace

Abby Scott, Biomedical Engineering, Honors in the Major

Palm Beach

Marbelis Lugo, Anthropology; Political Science, Honors in the Major

Palm Beach Gardens

Kayla Rodriguez, Communication Science and Disorders, Honors in the Major

Palm City

Grace Alford, Actuarial Science; Pure Mathematics, University Honors

Palm Harbor

Marie Chmara, Biomedical Engineering, Honors in the Major

Parkland

Emily Hale, Media Communication Studies, University Honors

Danielle Rittman, Accounting, University Honors

Fallon Trachtman, Public Health, University Honors

Pembroke Pines

Camila Aponte, Political Science; International Affairs, Honors in the Major

Pensacola

Lily Drasutis, Finance, University Honors

Sydney Englehart, Meteorology, University Honors

Sami Humeda, Health Management, Policy, and Information, University Honors

Yasmine Khabou, Behavioral Neuroscience, University Honors

Elizabeth Manning, Finance, University Honors

Allyson Sullivan, Marketing, University Honors

Pine Island

Madison Tilton, English (Editing, Writing, & Media); History, University Honors

Plantation

Thomas Windisch, Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences: Clinical Professions, University Honors

Plant City

Trinity Iwicki, Environment and Society; Media Communication Studies, University Honors

Ponte Vedra

Samuel Airheart, Finance; Real Estate, University Honors

Sophie Barley, Asian Studies (Emphasis in Business); International Affairs, Honors in the Major

Kathryn Woodford, Biological Science, University Honors

Ponte Vedra Beach

Taylor Kaminsky, Psychology, Honors in the Major

Noura Shaya, English (Literature, Media, & Culture), Honors in the Major

Alyssa Stern, Hospitality and Tourism Management, University Honors

Port St. Joe

Lee Maestri, Classical Archaeology, Honors in the Major

Port St. Lucie

Pearl Ray, Psychology; English (Creative Writing), Outstanding Senior Scholar

Sanford

Aliyah Blake, Communication Science and Disorders, Honors in the Major

Santa Rosa Beach

Santiago Botero-Echavarria, International Affairs, University Honors

Sarasota

Allison Kukanza, Economics, Outstanding Senior Scholar

Emilio Palombo, International Affairs; Marketing, University Honors

Nicholas Schwab, Media Communication Studies, University Honors

Spring Hill

Ellianna Holcomb, History; International Affairs, University Honors

Andrew Louis, Political Science, University Honors

St. Augustine

Natalie Watson, French; Linguistics, Honors in the Major

St. Johns

Emma Feeks, Nursing, University Honors

St. Petersburg

Samuel Appel, Political Science, University Honors

Harrison Betz, International Affairs; Spanish, Outstanding Senior Scholar

Melody Geiger, Meteorology, Honors in the Major

Meredith Grimm, Sport Management, University Honors

Steven LaBarbera, Finance; Risk Management/Insurance, University Honors

Mia McSheffrey, Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences: Clinical Professions, University Honors

Andrew Reilly, Biological Science, University Honors

Sunrise

Mallory Mei, Biological Science, University Honors

Tallahassee

Grace Bouloy, Political Science; Sociology, University Honors

Anya Byrne, Economics, University Honors

Connor Couch, Public Health, University Honors

Katrin Frederickson, Human Development and Family Sciences, University Honors

Dominic Garrett, Chemical Engineering, University Honors

Ansley Garrison, Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences: Clinical Professions, University Honors

Griffin Hanson, Accounting, University Honors

Katherine Henning, Environmental Science, University Honors

Somya Joshi, Actuarial Science, University Honors

Peninah Kimelman, Communication Science and Disorders; Linguistics, Honors in the Major

Saleha Mahboob, Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences: Clinical Professions, University Honors

Mary McGrane, Communication Science and Disorders, Honors in the Major

Kathryn Merritt, Computational Biology; Statistics, University Honors

Andy Mills, Studio Art; English (Creative Writing), Honors in the Major

Chloe Molinaro, Communication Science and Disorders, Honors in the Major

Aya Najjar, Biological Science, University Honors

Hanna Neustadter, Health Management, Policy, and Information, Outstanding Senior Scholar

Ahna Peace, Human Development and Family Sciences, Honors in the Major

Oliver Schoonover, Music Composition, Honors in the Major

Emily Southwell, Public Health, University Honors

Madeleine Stults, Psychology, Honors in the Major

Makenzie Wiggins, Mechanical Engineering, University Honors

Tampa

Jake Albrighton, Finance, University Honors

Natalie Bardin, Behavioral Neuroscience, Honors in the Major

Aedan Bennett, Religion, University Honors

Julia Caterson, English (Editing, Writing, & Media), University Honors

Cristina Dabrowski, Biological Science; Music, Honors in the Major

Jordyn Dees, Information Technology; English (Editing, Writing, & Media), University Honors

Arthur Egan, Biological Science, University Honors

Elise Frierson, Cell and Molecular Neuroscience, University Honors

Alexandria Fuertes, English (Creative Writing), Honors in the Major

Ethan Hernandez, Digital Media Production; English (Creative Writing), Honors in the Major

Eve Larkin, Advertising, University Honors

Jaden McCray, Biological Science, University Honors

Kayla McLoone, International Affairs; Middle Eastern Studies, University Honors

Emma Pollard, Chemical Engineering, University Honors

Arthi Solayappan, Political Science, Honors in the Major

Audrey Steadman, Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences: Clinical Professions, University Honors

Tarpon Springs

Sydney Mullen, International Affairs; Psychology, University Honors

Tequesta

Alana Jakee, Economics, University Honors

Vero Beach

Fiona Giardino, Public Health, Outstanding Senior Scholar

West Melbourne

Gia Rivers, Biochemistry, Honors in the Major

Weston

Sarah Gibson, Political Science; Interdisciplinary Social Sciences, University Honors

Danielle Marie Velez, Public Health, Honors in the Major

Natalie Medina, Finance; Commercial Entrepreneurship, University Honors

Renzo Nucci, International Affairs, University Honors

Nicolas Sanchez, Biomedical Engineering, Honors in the Major

Taylor Tieder, English (Creative Writing), Honors in the Major

West Palm Beach

Madison Berresford, Classical Civilizations, University Honors

Tre Hands, English (Creative Writing), Honors in the Major

Landon Heller, Psychology, University Honors

Ian Mutschler, Meteorology, Dual Honors

Sophia Saadati, Biological Science, University Honors

Sasha Smith, Hospitality and Tourism Management, University Honors

Windermere

Ty Kenoyer, Finance; Real Estate, University Honors

Winter Garden

Andrea Emmanuelli, Geology, Honors in the Major

Winter Park

Thomas Beamish, Finance; Management Information Systems, University Honors

Elizabeth Ferguson, Accounting; Criminology, University Honors

GEORGIA

Atlanta

Hanna McDaniel, Meteorology, University Honors

Sydney Neibert – Cell & Molecular Neuroscience, University Honors

Cumming

Alexandra Early, Biological Science, University Honors

Lucia Villanustre, Retail Entrepreneurship, University Honors

Decatur

Noah Strong, Religion; Philosophy, Honors in the Major

Marietta

Anna Mitchell, Public Health; Statistics, University Honors

ILLINOIS

Normal

Kiersten Schweizer, Biological Science, University Honors

Seneca

Ava Terry, Media Communication Studies, University Honors

IOWA

Dubuque

Andrew Glennon, Finance, University Honors

KANSAS

Hutchinson

Will Jackson, Chemistry, University Honors

Lawrence

Ian Haas, English Education, University Honors

Rheanne Walton, Theatre; Marketing, Dual Honors

LOUISIANA

Baton Rouge

Anna Blanchard, Political Science; Media Communication Studies, University Honors

Gonzales

Sofia Lavidalie, English (Editing, Writing, & Media), University Honors

MARYLAND

Abingdon

Cordelia Keeley, Production, Honors in the Major

Crownsville

Emily Shay, Accounting, University Honors

Ellicott City

Kara Sloper, Nursing; Public Health, University Honors

MASSACHUSETTS

Lynnfield

Jason Stelman, Finance, University Honors

Uxbridge

Payton Nestor, Public Health, Honors in the Major

MICHIGAN

East Lansing

Anisley Coty, Political Science; History, University Honors

Livonia

Ryan Ollar, Accounting; Management Information Systems, University Honors

Niles

Jessica Bellaire, Mathematics; Music, Honors in the Major

MINNESOTA

Minnetonka

Sydney Putnam, Hospitality and Tourism Management, University Honors

MISSOURI

St. Louis

Victor Achard, Marketing, University Honors

NEBRASKA

Omaha

Sydney Cole, Sociology; English (Editing, Writing, & Media), Outstanding Senior Scholar

NEW JERSEY

Dumont

Zoe Krassos, Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences: Clinical Professions, University Honors

Freehold

Julia Oliveira, Biological Science; Public Health, University Honors

Green Brook

Jacqueline Mills, Finance, University Honors

Metuchen

Sophie Breeze, Marketing, University Honors

Swedesboro

Dalton Britner, Actuarial Science; Statistics, University Honors

Tinton Fall

Jack Huisman, Finance; Chinese Language (Business Concentration), University Honors

Wayne

Brooke Engler, Accounting, University Honors

NEW YORK

Broadalbin

Matthew Danise, Finance; Real Estate, University Honors

East Quogue

Rachel Frank, English (Editing, Writing, & Media); Humanities, University Honors

New Rochelle

Jamie Cantone, Commercial Entrepreneurship, University Honors

Oakdale

Ethan Forberg, Management Information Systems, University Honors

Pearl River

Catherine McDermott, Sociology, University Honors

Somers

Katherine Velardo, Psychology, Outstanding Senior Scholar

St. James

Haleigh Gahan, Computer Science, University Honors

Thiells

Olivia Csernecky, Behavioral Neuroscience, University Honors

NORTH CAROLINA

Asheville

Moriah House, Anthropology, University Honors

Raleigh

Gabe Herschelman, Biological Science, University Honors

Waxhaw

Chandler Pruett, Meteorology; Statistics, Outstanding Senior Scholar

Winston-Salem

Catherine Wondra, Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences: Clinical Professionals, University Honors

OHIO

Boardman

Minh Tran, Finance; Management Information Systems, University Honors

Hamilton

Elizabeth Schutte, Public Relations; Spanish, University Honors

Harrison

Emma Roush, Media Communication Studies, Marketing

Lebanon

Mia Mantei, Behavioral Neuroscience, Outstanding Senior Scholar

Mentor

Kate Lohrey, Biochemistry, University Honors

North Olmsted

Albert Oleksy, Statistics, University Honors

OKLAHOMA

Tulsa

Clayton Powell, Athletic Training, University Honors

PENNSYLVANIA

Monroeville

Tadeusz Horomanski, Actuarial Science; Statistics, University Honors

Philadelphia

Anthony Psulkowski, Industrial Engineering, Dual Honors

Wayne

Rebecca Anestad, Computer Science, University Honors

SOUTH CAROLINA

Chapin

Michael Kopelman, Meteorology, Honors in the Major

Charleston

Mary Katherine Gelasco, Biochemistry; Music, Outstanding Senior Scholar

Brayden Poorvin, Information, Communication, and Technology, University Honors

TENNESSEE

Chattanooga

Hannah Carter, Political Science, University Honors

Sofia McDonough, Biological Science; Biomathematics, University Honors

Clarksville

Nina Chong, Chemical Engineering, University Honors

TEXAS

Bedford

Jacob Dell, Music; Economics, University Honors

Dallas

Matteo Gisellu, Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences: Clinical Professions, University Honors

Flower Mound

Jared Dasher, Political Science, University Honors

Keller

Andrew Zoch, Digital Media Production, University Honors

Plano

Robert Szot, Meteorology, Dual Honors

Richmond

Jasmine Burelsmith, Dance, University Honors

San Antonio

Ethan Aguilar, Neuroscience, University Honors

UTAH

Salt Lake City

Natalie Griffiths, Biological Science, University Honors

VIRGINIA

Herndon

Ava Kazerani, Biological Science, University Honors

Lorton

Lauren Amparo, Social Science Education, University Honors

Richmond

Nicholas Vantre, Finance; Real Estate, University Honors

WASHINGTON

Seattle

Melisa Sencer, Cell and Molecular Neuroscience, Honors in the Major

Vancouver

Benjamin Richter, Accounting, University Honors

CANADA

Nepean

David Quirie, Chemical Engineering, University Honors

CHINA

Shanghai

Huiying (Amy) Ni, Media Communication Studies; Psychology, Honors in the Major

COLOMBIA

Bogota

Andres Felipe Gil Arana, Neuroscience, Honors in the Major

CYPRUS

Nicosia

Christiana Michael, Applied and Computational Mathematics, Honors in the Major

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Moca

Vivian Bernard, Biomedical Engineering, Honors in the Major

GERMANY

Ramstein

Isabella Coddington, Statistics, University Honors

Lydia Coddington, Political Science; Psychology, University Honors

HAITI

Port-au-Prince

Thamengie Richard, Psychology, Honors in the Major

INDIA

Karnal

Diya Choudhary, Physics, Honors in the Major

MEXICO

Monterrey

Maria Aleman Martinez, Political Science; Economics, University Honors

NICARAGUA

Matagalpa

Freydell Espinoza, Biomedical Engineering, Honors in the Major

REPUBLIC OF PANAMA

Panama City

Astrid Daugherty, Biomedical Engineering, Honors in the Major

Santiago Lazarte, Biomedical Engineering, Honors in the Major

SOUTH KOREA

Jeju

Yeonsu Kim, Nursing, University Honors

VIETNAM

Ho Chi Minh City

Khoa Dao, Computer Science, University Honors

Linh Hoang, English Education, University Honors

The post FSU awards 339 honors medallions to Spring 2024 graduates appeared first on Florida State University News.

Students from the Florida State University Honors Program traveled to Washington, D.C., for a weekend trip that featured a conversation between students and NBC journalists at George Washington University.  

Thirteen honors students from a range of majors participated in the trip sponsored by 1992 alumna Kristian Denny Todd. 

Honors students toured the GW campus and talked with professional journalists about global and national events and reporting and producing the news. Journalists included Peter Lodge, director of the GW School of Media and Public Affairs; Kristen Welker, current moderator for NBC News’ “Meet the Press”; Chuck Todd, NBC News’ chief political analyst and former moderator of “Meet the Press”; Carrie Budoff Brown, senior vice president of politics at NBC News; and Kristian Denny Todd, the trip’s sponsor and a strategic and crisis communications expert who is married to Chuck Todd. 

Discussion topics included voter dissatisfaction and elections, the White House, issues around climate change and current challenges in news reporting.  

“Listening to the guest speakers was an incredible experience,” said Emma Roush, an honors student majoring in media communication studies. “Everyone was extremely welcoming, eager to answer our questions and give really thoughtful responses.” 

The speakers also shared stories from their career journeys and offered advice for the students as they consider their own futures.  

“As an undergraduate student at FSU, I desired an opportunity to speak to current professionals in my chosen career and ask them how they got to where they were,” Denny Todd said. “This was my goal for our honors students, and it worked out beautifully. Everyone was so impressed with the depth and knowledge of our students. I was so proud.”  

Denny Todd, who serves on the FSU Undergraduate Studies Development Council and the FSU Foundation Board of Trustees, arranged the trip with the Honors Program and made a gift to support student travel costs.  

As a longtime expert in political communications, serving as principal adviser to Bernie Sanders during his 2016 and 2020 presidential primary campaigns and to Muriel Bowser during her successful campaign for mayor of Washington, D.C., Denny Todd used her and her husband’s professional connections to design an exclusive experience for the FSU students.   

“We’re grateful to have Kristian Denny Todd’s visionary support as a partner in providing transformative opportunities for our students,” said Joe O’Shea, associate provost and dean of Undergraduate Studies. “Her generosity and creative thinking led to an invaluable experience for honors students, who returned to campus invigorated and inspired from their time in D.C.” 

The students also explored sights around Washington, including the U.S. Capitol, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the National Museum of the American Indian. 

“Everyone got to know each other better and created new connections as we spent time exploring Washington, D.C.,” said Sofia Martinez, an honors student in media communication studies. 

The university’s competitive Honors Program has grown exponentially, from about 400 incoming freshmen in prior years to a class of 600 last fall. The goal is to have 800 honors students in the upcoming academic year.  

“The University Honors Program is in an exciting phase of expansion,” said D. Craig Filar, associate dean of the Honors, Scholars, and Fellows House. “Enrichment opportunities like this one, sponsored by our donors, are one of the most impactful ways for both our students and alumni to engage in collaborative learning and professional development. This trip to D.C. provides an amazing blueprint for future opportunities.” 

For more information about the University Honors Program, visit honors.fsu.edu.

The post FSU Honors Program students visit Washington, D.C., on alumna-sponsored trip to learn from media experts appeared first on Florida State University News.