Dean's Award

Mathematics/Science

Snowbird Rubio
Major: Computer Science with Specialization in Digital Media

Snowbird Marilu Rubio is a Computer Science major with a Specialization in Digital Media. She has been part of the Barry University family since the fall semester of 2021. In 2022, Snowbird became a recipient of the NSF-Barry Engaged STEM Scholarship. She collaborated successfully with students in Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physical Sciences and engaged in interdisciplinary research. Her team’s research entitled “Comparing bacterial growth in an interdisciplinary setting” was presented at the 16th Annual Barry University STEM Symposium and at and at the 11th Annual LSSF South Florida STEM Undergraduate Research Symposium. Snowbird also conducted collaborative research in Computer Security with her group presenting their work entitled “Leveraging Blockchain and Zero-Knowledge Proofs for Secure Sensitive Data Transmission” at the 17th Annual Barry University STEM Symposium.

In Summer 2023, Snowbird conducted research in Data-Driven Materials Design at the University at Buffalo through the NSF Research Experience for Undergraduates.  In Summer 2024 Snowbird participated in the NSF International Research Experience for Students program at Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, India, where she collaborated with ePlane, a start-up focused on urban air mobility. However, Snowbird’s talents are not limited to research in computer science and technology.  She won first place in the 2024 Sigma Tau Delta Essay Contest.

Snowbird is to be commended for her excellent academic performance which is attributed to her strong work ethic and perseverance.

Yalena Anderson
Major: Biology

Yalena maintained an exceptional CGPA of 3.96 GPA while pursuing her BS. in Biology, over her 4 years at Barry as she discerned her career trajectory and whether to attend Medical School or to apply to Physicians Assistant programs.  As a student Yalena endeavored to experience opportunities to enhance her professional and leadership skills and to better her community.  Her commitment to excellence extends beyond the classroom. Yalena sought out opportunities to patriciate in undergraduate research working on diverse projects including bioinformatics, biofilm formation and investigated the biological mechanisms of schizophrenia with Barry Faculty. She earned 1^st place at the poster presentation at the 16^th and 17^th BU STEM symposium. This Spring, Yalena was inducted into the Sigma Xi, the research Honors Society; and in Tri-Beta the Biology National Honor’s society.

Yalena's leadership shines through her roles as a Teaching Assistant for Anatomy and Microbiology, a Biology Tutor, and a Residential Assistant, where she fostered community and supported her peers. She served as an Intern Research Leader in St. Croix with Wish and Wildlife on sea turtle conservation and was a team leader Team Leader with the National Park Service AmeriCorps, contributing to environmental preservation. Furthermore, Yalena has volunteered over 100 hours between Nicklaus Children's Hospital and the Salvation Army Food Pantry.  

Following graduation, Yalena plans to take a gap year to gain additional patient care hours before applying to Physician Assistants programs. Yalena Anderson's remarkable academic achievements, significant research contributions, diverse leadership experiences, and unwavering commitment to service make her truly outstanding.

Social/Behavioral Science

Katherine Hernandez
Major: Psychology with Minor in Literature

Katherine Hernandez’ work exemplifies academic excellence, leadership, and service. A Psychology major with a minor in Literature, she recently returned from London, where she completed the Foundation for International Education (FIE) Study Abroad Program. Her academic immersion included coursework in British literature and culture and an internship with LGBT Hero, a nonprofit promoting LGBTQ+ health and well-being, where she contributed to research and community engagement initiatives.

At Barry, Katherine collaborated in Dr. Lauro’s cognitive psychology lab, co-presenting research on word learning in bilingual and monolingual populations at the Barry STEM Symposium and the Southeastern Psychological Association (SEPA) conference.

A member of the Psi Chi International Honor Society, Katherine balances rigorous academics with a strong commitment to service. As President of Psi Chi, she collaborated with faculty on numerous initiatives promoting scholarship and cultural awareness, including a faculty book launch, guest speaker panels, and Barry’s annual Kwanzaa celebration. Her leadership extends to the community as a Regional Organizer for Rhizome, where she supports high school students in developing civic engagement and leadership skills. She previously volunteered at Doctors Charter School and served as an intern with Miami-Dade County Public Schools, helping coordinate student events.

She is currently reviewing graduate programs and plans to apply to doctoral programs in clinical psychology this fall. Her record of research, service, and leadership reflects the mission of the College of Arts and Sciences and makes her a truly deserving candidate for this award.

Kelli Ann Thomas
Major: Political Science

Kelli Ann Thomas grew up in southern Miami -Dade County. She has over 10 years of grassroots and electoral organizing experience. In 2020, Kelli was elected to Community Council 14 and served as the Vice Chair of the board for three years. In 2023, she began studying Political Science at Barry University. While enrolled at Barry, Kelli was inducted into the National Honor Society of Leadership and Success, Pi Sigma Alpha (the Political Science Honor Society) and made the Dean's List for the Fall 2023 and 2024 semesters.

She has also served as a member of the Building Better Communities Citizens Advisory Committee since May 2024, Lead Organizer in Miami Dade County for Florida Rising since January 2021, and South Dade Organizer for The New Florida Majority from July 2018 to January 2021. In August 2022 she was named one of Legacy MIA South Florida’s 40 Under 40 Black Leaders of Today and Tomorrow.

After graduation, Kelli will be teaching social sciences as a newly recruited member of Teach For America in Miami-Dade County.

Mathematics/Science

Kassandra Garcia
Major: Chemistry with Biochemistry Specialization

Outstanding service:

• President, Astro, Math & Physics Club, Barry University, August 2023 – December 2023
• Vice President, Astro, Math & Physics Club, Barry University, January 2023 – May 2023
• Member, Chemistry Club, Barry University, August 2022 – December 2023
• Presenter, Sylvania Heights Elementary School, 2023
• Presenter, Pierre Toussaint Leadership and Learning Center, Little Haiti, 2023

Honors, awards:

• President’s List, Barry University, 2023
• Dean’s List, Barry University, 2022
• Outstanding University Physics Student, Barry University, 2023
• Valedictorian, Miami-Dade College, 2017
• Highest Honors, Miami-Dade College, 2017

Extracurricular activities:

• Particle Physics Research Assistant, Barry University, Miami Shores, FL August 2022 – Present, Research supervisor: Dr. Bartosz Fornal
• Research involving gravitational waves from the early universe. Performed calculations, both analytical and computational (Mathematica, Python). Assisted in preparing manuscript for publication (LaTeX).
• Organic Chemistry Research Assistant, Barry University, Miami Shores, FL August 2022 – December 2023, Research supervisor: Dr. Conrad Fischer, assisted in the organic synthesis of novel SARS-COV-2 drugs and in analyzing their crystal structures. Analyzed mass spectra and NMR spectra of different compounds synthesized.
• Biophysics Research Assistant, Caltech, Pasadena, CA May 2023 – August 2023, Research supervisor: Dr. Rob Phillips, assisted in computing the growth rates of genetically modified bacterial strains given experimental OD600 data. Wrote code in Python to produce comprehensive plots. Used Bayesian statistical methods to model experimental data using Stan. Used techniques from the field of population genetics to run stochastic computer simulations.
• Physical Chemistry Research Assistant, Clemson University, Clemson, SC May 2022 – August 2022, Research supervisor: Dr. Jason McNeill, Measured the strength of nanoparticle binding to fluorescent dyes. Used UV-Vis and fluorometer to analyze the spectra of different solutions.
• Math and Science Tutor, Independent, Miami, FL June 2018 – Present, Helped middle school and high school students grasp introductory or intermediate level concepts in math and science. Gathered data on each student containing notes about their progress and what they needed to work on. Successfully developed tailored plans to teach students from a variety of different backgrounds, with different talents and skillsets, and at different levels of learning.
• While at Barry, she conducted chemistry research with Dr. Conrad Fischer aimed at synthesis of SARS-COV-2 inhibitors and particle physics research with Dr. Bartosz Fornal. In addition, she participated in two external summer research internships (Caltech and Clemson) and presented her research results at numerous international and national conferences. Impressively, she already co-authored one manuscript in a peer-reviewed scientific journal. What is even more noteworthy is that the observation she made during one of the research discussions with Dr. Fornal became the core result of the publication! This accomplishment is worthy of great praise and speaks highly of Kassandra’s extensive knowledge of science and her dedication to the understanding and advancement of research projects.

Journal Publications:

• Fornal, B., Garcia, K., & Pierre, E. (2023). Testing unification and dark matter with gravitational waves. Physical Review D, 108(5).

Oral Presentations:

• “Testing Dark Matter and Unification with Gravitational Waves”, International Conference TeV Particle Astrophysics, Naples, Italy, September 2023
• “Gravitational Wave Signatures of Unification and Dark Matter”, Meeting of the Southeastern Section of the American Physical Society, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, Kentucky, November 2023
• “Clemson Chemistry REU - IMPRESS: IMPlanting the ResEarch Seed in Students”, Department Seminar, Barry University, Miami Shores, FL, November 2022
• “Testing Unification, Dark Matter and Neutrino Masses with Gravitational Wave Detectors”, Department Seminar, Barry University, Miami Shores, FL, March 2023
• “Studying the Universe through Gravitational Waves”, Research Open House, Barry University, Miami Shores, FL, October 2023
• “Testing Unification, Dark Matter and Neutrino Masses with Gravitational Wave Detectors”, Short presentation at the MIT-ACCESS program, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, October 2023
• “UV-Vis Measurements of Nanoparticle Binding Equilibria and Kinetics”, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, July 2022

Poster Presentations:

• “Testing Unification, Dark Matter and Neutrino Masses with Gravitational Wave Detectors”, Meeting of the American Physical Society, Las Vegas, NV, March 2023
• “Testing Unification, Dark Matter and Neutrino Masses with Gravitational Wave Detectors”, STEM Symposium, Barry University, Miami Shores, FL, April 2023

Veronica Perez Taboada
Major: Pre-Professional Biology

Outstanding academic achievements:

• 2023- MIT Summer Researcher (MSRPBio) Whitehead Institute, Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge, MA in the laboratory of Dr. Ruth Lehman
• Conducted experiments on Drosophila melanogaster embryos using smFISH, SunTag System, Immunofluorescence, Confocal, and Expansion microscopy techniques
• Accepted to the University of Florida’s doctoral program in Biomedical Sciences, entering the program Fall 2024.

Outstanding service:

• TA and Biology Tutor in the Biology Department
• Member of Tri-Beta Honor’s Society
• Co-Presented a workshop for Biology undergraduates,  “A Guide to Finding Summer Research Programs 2024” In addition to creating a presentation about her work, Veronica shared resources to help students organize the summer application process.
• Present at the 2023 CAS Research Open House on Investigating Adrenergic Signaling in Hela Cells

Honors and Awards:

• Member of the American Society for Cell Biology
• Member of Tri-Beta Biology Honors Society (Sigma Eta Chapter)
• Awarded American Society for Cell Biology Travel Award for U.S. Underrepresented Minorities 
• Goizueta Foundation Minority Empowerment Endowed Scholarship 2023

Poster Presentations: Veronica has presented at 2 meetings (1 international; 1 national meeting) sponsored by professional Scientific Societies

• Function of Aubergine protein in germ granule assembly & translational regulation in Drosophila embryos 2023
• ASCB | EMBO Cell Bio 2023 Meeting, American Society for Cell Biology Boston, MA Function of Aubergine protein in germ granule assembly & translational regulation in Drosophila embryos
• ABRCMS 2023, Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Minority Student Phoenix, AZ

Social/Behavioral Science

Imani McClammy
Major: Political Science
 
Outstanding academic achievements:

• accepted and presented at Phi Alpha Theta (PAT) History conference in 2023
• accepted to present at PAT in 2024
• Pi Sigma Alpha Political Science Honor Society inductee 2023
• PAT History Honor Society Inductee 2024.
• Inducted into Delta Epsilon Sigma Honor Society in 2023. 
• Accepted to the MA program in Health Care Administration at Barry University

Outstanding service:

• President’s Society (2022-present)
• UptoUs national program, campus team leader, and invited to attend national conference.
• Research Assistant in Dept. of History and Political Science for 3 years. (Federal Work Study)

Honors, awards:

• Barry’s George Wanko Outstanding Junior Award in 2023
• ALL IN for Democracy National Voting Honor Roll (2023)

Extracurricular activities

• National Society of Leadership and Success since 2021 and earned the Foundations of Leadership Certificate.
• National Campus Vote Project (CVP) Fellow, 2 years
• Barry’s Campus Democracy Project, student co-chair, 2023-24
• Selected for NETWORK Advocates for Catholic Social Justice program called Young Advocates Leadership Lab (Y.A.L.L.) for the next year.
• President of College Democrats Club for two years.
• Involved in Leading Women of Tomorrow, Barry chapter.

Humanities/Fine Arts

Kelly DeRosa
Major: English, Professional Writing and Criminology
Outstanding academic achievements:

• Recipient of a Stamps Scholarship
• Inducted into Sigma Tau Delta
• Accepted to law school at Nova Southeastern University, University of Miami, and University of Connecticut

Outstanding service:

• Stamps Scholar Executive Board, Vice President of Planning and Logistics
• Stamps Scholar, Freshman Liaison
• Alpha Phi Chapter President
• Vice President of new Members Education and Director of Sisterhood
• Service Corp, Educational Equity Committee Member

Honors, awards:

• Graduated Magma cum laude

Extracurricular activities:

• Student Athlete
• Member of Barry U’s Women’s Swimming Team, August 2023-present
• Member of Barry U’s Women’s Rowing Team, 2022-2022
• Legal Clerk, Eraclides Gelman Law Firm
• Barry University Marketing Department Intern

Humanities and Fine Arts

Shanieya Harris
Major: Spanish with a Specialization in Language and Literature
Minor: Early Childhood Education

Outstanding academic achievements:

• President’s List
• Dean’s List
• Seal of Biliteracy
• Presidential Scholar
• Patricia Johnson O'Hearne Endowed Scholar
• Forrest J. Flammang Memorial Endowed Scholar

Outstanding service:

• President's Student Advisory Council
• Emerging Leadership Program Peer Mentor
• Barry University Residential Assistant
• Student Anti-Racism & Equity Coalition Club Founder / President JEDI
• NewBirth Community Outreach Tutor and Volunteer
• Wreaths Across America: Remember, Honor, Teach
• Puerto Rico Hurricane Relief
• Breast Cancer 5k Walk.
• Feeding South Florida
• The Citadel Leadership Program
• Operation Osprey Oak Hammock K-8 Mentor
• Kitty Hawk Air Society
• Adopt a Road
• BarryU Thrive Program

Honors, awards:

• SLC Chamber of Commerce Foundation Young Floridian in the Category of Foreign Language
• National Society Daughters of Founders and Patriots of America
• MTV Democracy Project Fellow (Campus Vote Project)
• Barry University Honors Program President
• Resident Assistant of the Year 2021
• George J. Wanko Award for Outstanding Junior.
• Miami Arts Journalism Mentoring Program winner for Winter 2022 Cohort 3.
• Microsoft Power Bi Student

Extracurricular activities:

• (AMG)ALPHA MU GAMMA- National Collegiate Foreign Language Honor Society
• Spanish / English Tutor Online and in Person in subjects of mathematics, reading, creative writing and college applications.
• Journalism for the arts: ARTBURST Writer
• Latin Language Instructor at St. Philips Episcopal School
• American Legion Auxiliary Girls State Councilor
• Senior Editor Barry University Honors Program Newsletter
• Buccaneer Newspaper Staff Writer and Ad Representator
• Translation for True Spanish Experience (TSE)
• Carla Forte - Birds Production
• Barry University Theatre for the following Productions:
• Illuminate
• Isolation
• FreshProject

Mathematics and Sciences

Jakub Ettrich
Major: Chemistry with a Specialization in Biochemistry

Outstanding academic achievements:

• President’s List, Fall 2019, Spring 2020, Fall 2021, Spring 2022, Fall 2022
• Dean’s List, Fall 2020, Spring 2021
• Inducted member of the Beta Delta chapter of the Gamma Sigma Epsilon chemistry honor society, 2022-present
• Inducted member of the Barry chapter of the National Society of Leadership and Success, 2020-present

Outstanding service:

• President of the Chemistry Club, 2021/2022, 2022/2023, secretary 2020/2021
• Secretary of the Astro-Math-Physics Club, Spring 2022, member 2021 – present
• Appointed member of the 2022 STEM Student Research and Creative Activities Award Grant review committee
• Chemistry Scholar/Ambassador for the Department of Physical Sciences, https://www.barry.edu/en/c-vitae/chemistry-scholars/jakub-ettrich
• Member of the Dean’s Student Advisory Council, Spring 2020 – Spring 2021
• Member of the Women in STEM^2 Club, 2023 – present
• Member STEM Learning Community (STEM LC), 2019 – 2020

Honors, awards:

• Outstanding General College Physics Student, Spring 2022
• Outstanding Biochemistry Student, Spring 2022
• Winning prize for the poster presentation on “Synthesis and purification of BODIPY-labeled elabela peptides as fluorescent probes for bioimaging applications” at the Barry University 14th Annual STEM Research Symposium, Spring 2022
• Recipient of the Carla Armorgan Bailey Endowed Scholarship, Spring 2022
• Recipient of the SoFL-ACS Travel Award to San Diego, Spring 2022
• Recipient of the Chemistry and Physics Faculty Endowed Scholarship Fall 2021, Spring 2022
• Outstanding General Chemistry Student, Spring 2020
• Recipient of the Dominican Leadership Award for undergraduate studies (four-year fellowship).
• Recipient of a merit-based Barry Academic Scholarship for undergraduate studies (four-year fellowship)

Extracurricular activities:

• MIT Summer Research Program in Biology, Department of Biology, MIT, Cambridge, Massachusetts, Summer 2022 - Conducted research in the laboratory of Dr. Graham C. Walker under the mentorship of Dr. Siva Sankari on investigating the heme-binding and antimicrobial properties of a plant peptide NCR247 using microbiological and biochemical structure-function studies, including site-directed mutagenesis, SDS-PAGE, growth curve assays, or FPLC.
• Faculty research, Department of Physical Sciences, Barry University, Miami Shores, Florida, academic year 2021/2022, 2022/2023 - Performed research under Dr. Conrad Fischer on the multistep organic synthesis of the BODIPY-FL propanoic acid fluorophore, solid-phase peptide synthesis of Elabela peptides, and conjugation of the fluorophore to the peptides to study the binding of Elabela peptides to apelin (APJ) receptor.
• Volunteer research, Department of Biology of the University of Alabama in Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, Summer 2021 - Performed research under Dr. Stephen A. Watts from the University of Alabama in Birmingham on the effects of neurotransmitters on sea urchin metamorphosis, utilizing methods such as microscopy, sea-urchin spawning, or cell counts using spectrometry.
• Laboratory Assistant for Instrumental Analysis, Department of Chemistry and Physics, Barry University, Spring Semester 2023
• Organic Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Instrumental Analysis Tutor, Department of Chemistry and Physics, Barry University, Fall Semester 2022, Spring Semester 2023
• Laboratory Assistant for Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry and Physics, Barry University, Fall Semester 2022, Spring Semester 2023
• NSF Engaged STEM Scholars Peer Mentor, Barry University, Academic year 2022-2023

Social and Behavioral Sciences

Damon Watts
Major: Political Science
Minor: Social Science Education

Outstanding academic achievements:

• 5 GPA and Dean’s List
• Team leader of Barry U’s Net Impact team
• Inducted to both Pi Sigma Alpha (Political Science) and Phi Alpha Theta (History) Honor Societies for academic excellence
• Presented original research paper at Barry’s Undergraduate Research Fair (September 2022)
• Presented original research paper at Pi Sigma Alpha conference in Washington, DC (Feb 2023)
• Presented original research paper at Phi Alpha Theta conference in Lakeland, FL. (March 2023)

Outstanding service:

• TRACKS Program – graduate and peer facilitator
• Up to Us university team leader

Honors, awards:

• Runner-up for Department’s Brink Award for best original research paper, 2021 and 2022.
• Awarded a Dean’s Office travel grant to attend and present at an academic conference

Extracurricular activities:

• Net Impact Interactive Climate Ambassador program (2022-present)
• Net Impact on Student Loans/National Debt Team Lead (2021-22)
• Emerging Leaders Program (2019-present)
• AT&T Summer Learning Academy
• Model United Nations – helped Barry club win Honorable Mention Delegation Award at 2021 NYC online competition
• Member, Barry University College Democrats Club
• Works occasionally at NBP Residential Life
• Community youth coaching and mentoring

Humanities and Fine Arts

Brianna Lopez
Major: English, Professional Writing

Outstanding academic achievements:

• Inducted into and named Chapter President of Sigma Tau Delta English Honor Society
• Inducted into the National Society of Leadership and Success
• Published “Inside the Writing World: Defining the Term ‘Writer’ in Multiple Contexts,” in the peer-reviewed undergraduate journal, Queen City Writers
• Presented her honors thesis research at the Undergraduate Research Symposium at the 2022 College Composition and Communication Convention in March 2022 and at the Northeast Regional Honors Council Conference in April 2022

Outstanding service:

• Volunteer for Herstory Writers Workshop, an organization that provides engages imprisoned women in writing stories
• Vice President of the Military Appreciation Club at Barry University

Honors, awards:

• Awarded $1,500 for 2020 Best Writing—Single Story Feature from the Catholic Press Association
• Awarded scholarships to Barry University’s Honors Program and additional scholarships

Extracurricular activities:

• Production Editorial Intern, Penguin Publishing Group at Penguin Random House
• Associate Editor, The National Collegiate Honors Council Journal of Undergraduate Research and Creative Activity
• Intern, Calle Ocho News
• Co-Chair and Newsletter Co-Editor, Honors Program Advisor Board
• Copy Editor, The Buccaneer
• Freelance Proofreader and Cold Reader for various companies, including Penguin Random House and Catapult Books
• Self-published the nighttime series: a collection of poetry and short stories.

Mathematics and Sciences

Victoria Martinez Mercado
Majors: Biology and Mathematics

Outstanding academic achievements:

• Summer internship fellowship recipient at the Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies
• Presenter at the American Geophysical Union Conference: Effects of legislation on water quality in streams in New Hampshire
• Co-author of poster presented at the Barry University STEM Symposium: Effects of raw honey on human gut microbiome
• Presenter at the Society of Freshwater Science: Effects of legislation on water quality in streams in New Hampshire
• Summer internship fellowship recipient at the University of Iowa’s Interdisciplinary Evolutionary Biology Program
• Presenter at the Barry University STEM Symposium: Solving the Mystery of Rare Males in a Supposed Asexual Species

Outstanding service:

• Co-founded sustainability club at Barry University
• Volunteered for 2 weeks in Adrian Michigan, learning about sustainable agricultural practices
• Helped organize a communal birthday party for low-income children
• Volunteered at Miami Shores low-income high school to teach about basic mathematical concepts
• Volunteered once a semester at Turner Tech High School to teach a course in Financial Literacy
• Volunteered to teach high school students about college life, essay, interviews, and mental health

Honors, awards:

• Stamps Family Charitable Foundation Scholar
• National Society of Leadership and Success member

Extracurricular activities:

• Helped organize and presented at the cultural French film event at Barry University for the French Ambassador
• Studied mathematics at Maynooth University, Ireland
• Participated in undergraduate research under Dr. Assis-Nascimento at Barry University
• Managed Barry University’s endowment fund as a member of the Student Managed Investment Fund
• Teaching Assistant for Biology introductory courses and Botany
• Biology tutor for the Biology Department at Barry University

Lena Sumner-Borema
Majors: Chemistry with Biochemistry Specialization and English Literature
Minor: Biology

Outstanding academic achievements:

• Chemistry and Physics Faculty Endowed Scholarship, 2021

Outstanding service:

• Astro-Math-Physics Club, Barry University President of the club
• Chemistry Club, Barry University Vice President of the club
• Member of Sigma Tau Delta English Honor Society
• ESOL instructor assistant and office volunteer, Catholic Charities Bureau, Jacksonville, FL
• Fundraiser, Burma School Mission, Little Acres Kachin Community Center, Jacksonville, FL
• Co-director, Tutoring Club, Robins Nest Apartments, Jacksonville, FL

Honors, awards:

• Barry University NCAA Division II Rowing: Team Captain; Pocock All-American Award 2020, 2021, CRCA National Scholar-Athlete 2020, 2021; Sunshine State Conference Spring Commissioner’s Honor Roll 2019, 2020, 2021; Coach’s Award 2020

Extracurricular activities:

• Physics and Biochemistry Tutor, Barry University
• Teaching Assistant, Cell Biology, Barry University. Assisted professor in setting up and conducting laboratory sessions. Organizes and plans review sessions for students outside of class time
• Intern, Dade County Medical Journal and Duval County Medical Journal. Edited medical scientific journal articles for the Autumn issues, authored twelve physician profiles for publication
• Teaching Assistant, General Chemistry, Barry University. Assisted professor in preparing and teaching laboratory sessions
• Tutor, General Chemistry, Barry University
• Teaching Assistant, Microbiology, Barry University. Assisted professor in preparing and teaching laboratory sessions. Ran open laboratory sessions and assisted students with reports.
• Barry Buccaneer Staff Writer, Barry University. Wrote quarterly articles primarily centered on science and health for the University’s published paper.
• Tutor, Dovelight Ministry, Pembroke Pines, FL. Virtual Tutor for Elementary and Middle school students
• Intern, Jacksonville Center for Clinical Research, Jacksonville, FL. Wrote newsletters for upcoming studies, called patients to explain upcoming studies, scheduled appointments, and observed initial visits
• Research with mentor Conrad Fischer, PhD.: Synthesized Elabela peptides as novel therapeutics through solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS) and purified with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)
• Research Poster Presentations: Sumner-Borema, L. and Fischer, C. Elabela peptides as potential therapeutics for cardiovascular disease. Spring 2022 American Chemical Society National Meeting, San Diego, CA, March 20-24, 2022; 14th Annual STEM Research Symposium, Barry University, Miami Shores, FL, April 8, 2022

Social and Behavioral Sciences

Alejandra Ramos
Major: History
Minor: Political Science

Outstanding academic achievements:

• 2021 Brink Award winner – “The Abdication of King Edward VIII” was awarded Best Research Paper written in a history or political science course for the 2020-21 academic year.

Outstanding service:

• Student Ambassador at Barry’s Recruitment and Admissions Department. Maintained communication with prospective students; spoke at several panels about her experiences as a student; worked many recruitment fairs and events. Prior to that she served in a work-study position with the recruitment office.
• Selected into the President’s Society which allows students to work alongside the President of Barry University to further the university mission.

Honors, awards:

• 2021 Brink Award Winner – annual department award with cash prize and recognition
• Selected to serve on President’s Society

Extracurricular activities:

• Internship with Hialeah City Clerk’s office
• Records Clerk for City of Hialeah

Mathematics and Sciences

Luca McLeod

Major: Computer Information Systems, with a Specialization in Cybersecurity and a Minor in Psychology

Mr. Luca McLeod’s outstanding academic achievements include a grade point average of 3.97 and consistently making the Dean’s and President’s list. Luca also completed internships in cybersecurity with the NFL as an Information Security Audit Summer Intern and with the Lennar Corporation as an Information Security Intern.

In 2019, he participated in the Alternative Spring Break where he spent several days in Panama City, Florida doing hurricane relief work, and went to Tallahassee, Florida to lobby for “Dignity for Incarcerated Women”.

In 2020, he participated in Alternative Spring Break and traveled to the Bahamas with Barry’s School of Education as part of a program focused on education and hurricane relief. What’s more, he has served food to the residents and homeless at the Miami Rescue Network in Wynwood and participated in the Florida Keys Hurricane Relief, helping to clear paths covered with trees due to hurricane Irma.

While at Barry, Luca was a recipient of the National Honor Society of Leadership and Success Award, a Student Managed Investment Fund Member, a Center for Community Service Initiatives Fellow, a Resident Assistant and a Flex Learning Supervisor.

Mathematics and Sciences

Lilyveth Mesa
Major(s): Chemistry and Biology

A double major in chemistry and biology, there is no doubt that Lily will be a great physician, the one who cares for patients regardless of their socio-economic background and the one who will be thoughtful and compassionate. She will make sure that she has the necessary knowledge to cure her patients as she already has a strong foundation in science. In addition, she has the courage to speak up on behalf of those in need and she has the ability to convince others to follow her lead.

Humanities And Fine Arts

Michidael Ceard
Major: English

It has been a great pleasure to have Michidael as one of the exceptional students in the Department of English and Foreign Languages. As a transfer student, Michidael Ceard began her education as an English major at Barry in fall 2018. With strong determination, she is also graduating from the Honors Program and with exceptional records of leadership and service. She will continue her strong commitment to making a difference in this world. We are very proud of her accomplishments!

Social and Behavioral Sciences

Mateo Gomez

Majors: Political Science and Television and Digital Media

Mateo found a natural fit with his interests in law, politics, and media communications. He was able to supplement his classroom learning with many amazing experiences including being on TV, hosting Barry's first TEDx talk, interning with judges, traveling to various conferences, representing Barry students at the state capitol, and interviewing community leaders for his radio show or the student newspaper. What a full and outstanding set of experiences that Mateo enjoyed at Barry!

Social And Behavioral Sciences

Antonio "Toni" Rodriguez
Major: Political Science

Toni dove in to leadership roles with Student Government, the Florida College Democrats, and as a CCSI Barry Service Corp Fellow. Toni organized numerous events to raise awareness about immigration policy, the plight of Dreamers, gun control policy, and voting rights among other policy issues. Toni is ready to put his experience and skills to work in effecting positive change in his community and in the world.

Mathematics and Sciences

Llona Kavege
Majors: Biology and Philosophy
GPA: 3.93

Outstanding academic achievements:
Llona is a double-major student who has maintained a high (GPA 3.926) in two challenging programs. In addition to her course load, she has done research through the RISE program at BU with Dr. Hu in the Biology Department since Spring 2016 semester. In the Philosophy department, she worked with Dr. Tallman for one academic year (2017-2018). In addition to doing research at BU, she participated in a Biomedical Ethics program at the National University of Singapore, Yoo Loo Lin School of Medicine, Center of Biomedical Ethics during the winter break of 2018. During the summer of 2018, she participated in the research summer program at Washington University in St. Louis, as an Amgen Scholar. She has attended five workshops for both disciplines and has written four abstracts resulting from her research. She has also achieved three professional certifications, such as IACCUC, CPR and OSHA training. She was also selected to participate in the MIT Quantitative Methods Workshop in January of 2018. Llona has qualified to be a member of four honor societies as a result of her GPA and her service to the university and community. With Llona's leadership her team placed 2nd and 3rd on consecutive years at the National completions Llona is a Stamps scholar and has lived up to her potential at BU academically and as a student representing Barry at the Ethics Bowl; as well as, doing research at large research institutions.

Outstanding service:
She has extensive community service where she has participated in 9 different activities with one, Breakthrough Miami, she has continued to tutor 3rd - 8th grade youth from underserved communities since 2015. In addition, through several academic clubs and societies she has served in leadership positions or as a presenter. In the Fall 18 semester, she hosted ‘Research 101' and ‘Snack and Chat: Capital Punishment'. She participated in the CAS Dean's student advisor board (2017-2018).

Honors, awards:
She has been awarded the Dr. George J. Wanko Award for Outstanding Junior, the NSLS Excellence in Leadership Award, the St. Rose of Lima Campus Ministry Award, the John Graves Thompson Award for Outstanding Freshman, and the Stamps Scholarship

Extracurricular activities:
Due to her academic load, her community and university service her extracurricular activities surround the university life. She is often helping her classmates, tutoring or mentoring other biology students.

Humanities and Fine Arts

Paris Razor
Major: English
Specializations: Professional Writing and Literature
GPA: 3.80

Outstanding academic achievements:
Paris Razor has always taken her education seriously as an English major double specializing in literature and professional writing. In all her academic endeavors she has succeeded. She currently has a 3.7 GPA and has garnered many achievements at Barry. She is currently a member in four different honor societies: Delta Epsilon Sigma, National Society of Leadership and Success, Sigma Tau Delta, and Phi Eta Sigma. Sigma Tau Delta is the national honor society of English students. In 2017, Paris earned the Sigma Tau Delta writing award, earning first place in fiction. She was published in Barry's literary journal, What Oft Was Thought. She has also represented Barry during her internship with Miami Music Project, a nonprofit organization using music to create social change in Miami's youth. Her work received perfect reviews from the organization, as she developed and edited grants, created articles, and edited documents for the board of trustees and publication. Paris has also done her best to gain writing experience outside of her school work, publishing articles in International Real Estate News and La Voz Católica.

Outstanding service:
Paris Razor is a Barry Service Corps Fellow for Barry University's Center for Community Service Initiatives. Since her sophomore year, Paris has been a fellow, part of the Global Citizenship justice team, primarily working on issues concerning farmworker rights. Farmworkers nationwide face injustices of wage theft, gender-based violence, and in extreme cases, slavery. To combat these issues, Paris has been a student leader on the steering committee of the Student/Farmworker Alliance (SFA) for two years, a national network of students and young people working to uproot exploitation in the fields. They are the sister organization of the Coalition of Immokalee Workers (CIW), a worker-based nonprofit organization addressing farmworker rights. They developed the Fair Food Program, a partnership between food retailers, farmers, and farmworkers to ensure humane conditions in the fields. In 2015, SFA announced a boycott of Wendy's, a fast food restaurant that has refused to join the Fair Food Program, ignoring their role in perpetuating abuse. Because of this, most of Paris's work in this organization includes fulfilling their mission in persuading Wendy's to join the Fair Food Program. Due to this, Paris works in organizing and recruiting university students at Barry and in the United States. Paris has travelled to Ohio several times to support the Wendy's boycott. Two of the trips included working with other activists to strategize campaigns in SFA's annual conference. A third trip included going to the Wendy's headquarters, where she attended their shareholder's meeting alongside farmworkers, clergy, and other activists, to draw attention to Wendy's unjust practices. Paris has also led a group of college students and activists representing communities throughout Florida on a trip to New York City. The group was supporting a CIW hunger fast in front of the Wendy's headquarters in New York. She organized a stage bus from Barry to New York, and attended a demonstration of approximately 2000 people. The next day, Paris led workshops for students, persons of faith, and activists who serve as leaders of their own SFA chapters across the U.S. For a little over two years, Paris has facilitated a service-learning package for students at Barry, educating students on farmworker rights and the CIW/SFA. She designs and coordinates direct and indirect service activities, and has organized several demonstrations in Miami including the Barry community. Paris has also organized a 24-hour hunger fast and memorial service, sign-making activities, social media campaigns, presentations, and more. She has also published an article in a Spanish Catholic newspaper of Barry's involvement in the New York City demonstration. Paris also founded and is president of the Barry Student/Farmworker Alliance Chapter on campus. Besides her work with SFA and CIW, her role as a Barry Service Corps Fellow includes being a service trip leader. She has led groups to perform service in the Florida Keys in the wake of Hurricane Irma, and major days of service, including Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service and Make a Difference Day. Paris has also served in Alternative Spring Break, where she flew to the Texas/Mexico border and worked in a respite center, helping unaccompanied minors receive a meal and a change of clothing. She helped take care of children so parents could take their first shower in days. This spring, Paris will be going to Tallahassee/Alabama for Alternative Spring Break. In Tallahassee, she will be lobbying at the state capital for the Dignity for Incarcerated Women Act, fighting for hygiene products and eradicating sexual abuse for women in Florida prisons. In Alabama, she will experience civil rights history in Montgomery and visit the Legacy Museum and National Peace and Justice Memorial. Most recently in February 2019, Paris and another student presented in Charlottesville, Virginia for the IMPACT conference, an event for students, nonprofit professionals, and campus administrators, to identify issues within their communities to which they would like to solve and create social change. Her presentation “Promoting Social Justice through Student-Led University Clubs and Organizations while Building Mutually Beneficial Community Partnerships” helped to educate individuals on the differences between charity and social justice, how to identify a social issue in their community, and create an action plan while discovering community partners.

Honors, awards:
Sigma Tau Delta Writing Award, First Place in Fiction (2017), Barry University. Student Advocate Award (2018), from the Center for Human Rights and Social Justice, Barry University. Community Impact Award (2018), from the Center for Community Service Initiatives, Barry University. National Engaged Leader Award (2019), from the National Society of Leadership and Success, Barry University.

Extracurricular activities:
Paris Razor has also put her best foot forward in other aspects of Barry life. Paris founded and is the President of the Barry Student/Farmworker Alliance Chapter. Their meetings occur biweekly, as she helps to strategize with other students on ways to support farmworker rights. Paris is also the copyeditor and staff writer of Barry's student-led newspaper, The Buccaneer. Since her sophomore year, she has been writing articles about a myriad of events on campus and in the community. It was in her senior year she was appointed as copyeditor, editing several articles a week, providing feedback and corrections to help other Barry students become better writers. Some of her published articles from The Buccaneer was submitted to the Catholic Press Association's 2019 CPA Journalism Awards, hoping to win Best Reporting of Social Justice Issues. Paris also helped to organize and co-hosted the school newspaper's first "Stay Woke" debate and monologue competition. As well, Paris has represented Barry at LeaderShape in 2017, a nonprofit organization that holds leadership training for college students.

Social and Behavioral Sciences

Jasmine McKee
Major: History
Minor: Political Science
GPA 3.08

Outstanding academic achievements:
3.0 GPA

Outstanding service:

• CCSI Barry Service Corp Fellow
• Community Organizing and Development through CCSI
• Campus Democracy Project committee member
• Deliberative Dialogue panelist
• Ethical Leadership conference
• Up to Us, Team Leader (selected to attend conference in Arizona)

Honors, awards:

• Newman Civic Fellow, 2018-19
• Community Impact Award winner, 2017

Extracurricular activities:

• CCSI Barry Service Corp Fellow
• Campus Democracy Project assistant
• Volunteer work with Gang Alternative, Lillie C. Evens Elementary School Speech and Debate Club, Haiti Optimists, Virginia Key beach cleanup, and Urban GreenWorks
• P.R.I.D.E. Club member.

Note: Jasmine is participating in the Spring 2019 commencement ceremony. She will be taking HIS 315 and HUM 396 in Summer I to complete her graduation requirements.

Mathematics and Sciences

Diana Cordero Dumit
Majors: Marine Biology and Chemistry
GPA: 3.94

Diana exceeded not only academically, but also as an inspirational leader for students and faculty, and by providing an outstanding service to surrounding community. The entire faculty and staff in the Physical Sciences department awarded her with the “Recognition for Academic Excellence, Inspirational Leadership, and Outstanding Service” plaque. This was for the first time that the department gave such an honor to any chemistry graduate. In 2016, she was awarded the outstanding physics student recognition. In addition to being employed as general chemistry tutor and organic chemistry laboratory teaching assistant, she organized study groups for upper level courses. During her second semester at Barry presented her first research poster during the 6th Annual STEM Symposium. She worked under the guidance of chemistry faculty, Dr. Tamara Hamilton, on improving mechanochemical approach to synthesis of biologically relevant porphyrins. This is solvent-free approach which decreases the amount of waste generated and therefore it is considered environmentally friendly. During her time in Dr. Hamilton's lab, she voluntarily acted as a mentor to newer research students, encouraging them in their own research projects, showing them lab techniques and organizing and giving helpful feedback at extra practice sessions for poster and oral presentations. Furthermore, Diana conducted fully-funded summer research in three related disciplines at three insituitions: oceanographic and atmospheric sciences at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab; oceanic chemistry at the Univeristy of Miami; and paleoenvironmental chemistry at the Brown University. She conducted numerous poster presentations at local, national and international scientific meetings and symposia where she obtained presentation awards. She was admitted into graduate PhD programs at MIT, Yale, and Vanderbilt and will be attending MIT.

Social and Behavioral Sciences

Paola Montenegro
Major: Political Science
GPA 3.68

In addition to her major, Paola also took numerous French courses, completed an internship with Miami Waterkeeper, a South Florida environmental group that advocates for South Florida's watershed and wildlife. Paola completed the Honors Program and successfully defended her Honors thesis entitled ‘United States Foreign Policy Toward Venezuela (1952-1964) and Chile (1970-1990)'. She was a panelist or moderator at numerous student conferences. She was inducted into the national Political Science Honor Society: Pi Sigma Alpha. Paola was one of our most active students in university and community service. She was a Barry Service Corps Fellow and a Student Ambassador. Paola completed Alternative Spring Breaks in Haiti and McAllen, Texas. She was a volunteer for College Brides Walk, Fair Food Action, Guardian Ad Litem, International Coastal Cleanup, the Salvation Army, and the Freshman Experience Day. Paola's extensive service contributions resulted in her receiving the CCSI Community Impact Award, the Newman Civic Fellowship, and the St. Catherine Medal. Paola's career goals are to attend graduate school and to eventually be employed by the United Nations in the area of global environmental sustainability.

Mathematics and Sciences

Bertina Telusma
Major: Biology
Minor: Chemistry
GPA: 3.96

Bertina Telusma challenged herself at Barry and embraced an interdisciplinary approach in her classwork. In addition to her great success in her classwork, Bertina was exceptional for her involvement in research both at Barry University and beyond. Bertina's goals as a researcher from the beginning have been to apply her research to the betterment of humanity as well as to promote science in countries that lack traditional science culture, like her native Haiti. In her first semester at Barry, Bertina carried out a group project examining how the vocalizations of male house crickets might signal genetic quality to potential mates. In her sophomore year, Bertina conducted research investigating the mechanisms of gene silencing by the Polycomb (Pc) group genes in zebrafish. In 2014, she accepted a summer research internship at the University of Missouri investigating a gene silencing mechanism that is important for proper sexual development.

After completing a Quantitative Methods Workshop at MIT in January 2015, she was accepted into a summer research program where she conducted research on meiotic initiation in mice germ cells. Based on her exceptional performance she was invited by MIT to a position as a “visiting student” the following spring conducting research on helicase loading during DNA replication while also auditing a molecular biology course there.

Bertina was then awarded a prestigious Howard Hughes Medical Institute Exceptional Research Opportunities Program (EXROP) Fellowship to continue her work at MIT throughout the summer of 2016. She was also awarded this fellowship a second time to allow her to further her work in the Bell Lab during summer of 2017.

Bertina was accepted to Ph.D. programs at several prominent universities: Stanford, Harvard, the University of California San Francisco, John Hopkins, and the University of California Berkeley, and MIT, where she will be attending. No program to which she applied rejected her.

Bertina performed significant service for the Barry and Little Haiti communities. As the treasurer of the Haitian Inter-Cultural Association, Bertina was very involved in bringing awareness to health issues in the Haitian community and fundraising for the earthquake in Haiti. She mentored underprivileged middle school children in science in both Miami and Boston.

Humanities, Fine Arts, and Theology

Jessica Cousett
Major: Philosophy
GPA: 3.83

Jessica had an excellent GPA in the demanding major of Philosophy. She was an Honors student who completed her thesis on the Libertarian Justification of Poverty in the United States. She was a member of Barry's Ethics Bowl Debate Team for 3 years. The team, led by Jessica, went undefeated at the Southeast Regional Ethics Bowl Competition in Orlando, FL, and placed third overall. As a result of the 3rd place finish, the team was invited to the National Championship Competition in Dallas, TX where they again finished third out of 37 teams. Jessica is without question is an excellent debater and a highly intelligent, articulate, persuasive and confident person. She received a generous scholarship to attend Emory University Law School beginning Fall 2017.

Jessica served as a Logic Tutor in the department of Theology and Philosophy (2016) and President of Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Society (2014-15). As President, Jessica conducted weekly meeting, collaborated with outside and internal organizations to conduct campus events, and hosted a Political Panel on Racism and held a mock trial of the Trayvon Martin case. Vice President of Barry University Model United Nations (2013-15). Jessica's team placed 1st in the Model UN competition in 2014. She also served in PACT, which unites, organizes and trains leaders from diverse congregations, schools, and community groups to hold officials accountable, achieve systemic change and promote justice and fairness in Miami Dade County. Jessica volunteered for Feeding South Florida and served as a note-taker for disability services at Barry.

Social and Behavioral Sciences

Kevin Dalia
Major: Pre-Law
GPA 3.83

Kevin was a Pre-Law major with outstanding academic achievements in the Ethics Bowl competition, the Model United Nations competition, and in the Honors Program. Kevin was one of our most active students in university and community service. He was active in Barry's Student Government Association, the Campus Activity Board, the All Greek Council, Barry's Center for Community Service, the Coalition of Immokalee Workers, Food for the Poor, and the Humane Society of Miami, just to name a few. He was inducted into numerous academic and service honor societies. Kevin also worked part time to help pay for his education. Kevin plans to attend law school.

Mathematics and Sciences

Wesam Aziazeh
Major: Biology
Minors: Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics

Azaizeh majored in Biology (pre-professional program) and minored in Physics, Math and Chemistry. He was able to maintain a 3.66 GPA and consistently made the Dean's List. His outstanding scholastic achievements were recognized with induction into Delta Epsilon Sigma Honor Society. Azaizeh had several publications and presentations at local, national and international meetings in diverse areas, including a computer code in MESAPlot and a paper in “The Journal of Microbiology & Biology Education.” His research potential was recognized with the induction into the Barry Chapter of Sigma Xi, the Scientific Research Society.

He was recognized and awarded a cash prize at Barry University STEM symposiums and was chosen to participate in the 2014 Quantitative Biology Workshop at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge. Azaizeh was selected as an Outstanding Physics Student in 2013 and was inducted into the Beta Beta Beta Biology National Honors Society.

In addition to his class work, Azaizeh served as a tutor for University Physics I & II, Quantitative Chemistry I & II, Organic Chemistry I &II, Biological Foundations, Cell Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, and as a teaching assistant for General Physics I & II Lab and Biological Foundations Lab (BIO104). He was recognized as an Outstanding Physics Teacher Assistant and helped start the Astronomy, Math & Physics Club.

Humanities, Fine Arts, and Theology

Kelly R. Merrill
Major: Mathematics & Broadcast/Emerging Media

Merill double majored in Mathematics and Broadcast and Emerging Media, and graduated with a 3.88 GPA. He consistently made the President's and Dean's List, and made a presentation on immigration at the annual Barry University Mini-Conference.

During his time at Barry, Merill served in many capacities, including: news director and interim president of WBRY radio station; Dalton Hall resident assistant; volunteer at Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Greater Miami; worked with approximately 30 students from local middle schools serving as a peer mentor and role model through Barry's Community Learning Partnership; Barry University orientation leader; mathematics tutor; and visited and mentored youth through the Little Haiti Optimist Club.

Merill's honors and awards include: Department of Mathematics and Computer Outstanding Student; recipient of the Sr. Paul James Villemure Scholarship; Outstanding Student in Broadcast and Emerging Media; Goizueta Minority Science Scholarship recipient; National Academy for Television Arts & Sciences Suncoast Scholarship recipient; freshman, sophomore and junior Excellence in Leadership Award; John Graves Thompson Award for Outstanding Freshman; and member of five honors societies (Phi Eta Sigma, Lambda Pi Eta, Delta Epsilon Sigma, Delta Epsilon Iota and Sigma Alpha Pi).

Social and Behavioral Sciences

Rebecca J. Leppert
Major: Political Science
Minor: History

Leppert majored in Political Science with a minor in History. In addition to maintaining a 4.0 GPA, Leppert was also a STAMPS Scholar and recognized for her academic leadership. In 2015, she presented a research paper at the Florida Political Science Association titled, “The Empirical Analysis on the Correlation of War Casualties and Birth Rate,” which made her a finalist for best undergraduate paper.

Leppert attended the Florida Student Leadership Forum on Faith and Values in Tallahassee in 2015 and 2016, and was a facilitator at the 2016 forum. She was selected also as a nationally and state recognized leader for The National Student Leadership Forum in Washington, D.C., in 2015, and served as a management intern with the City of Arlington in summer 2015.

Leppert had an impressive record of service during her time at Barry, including: president of Sigma Alpha Pi: The National Society of Leadership and Success; leadership committee member of Barry's Grade Appeals Committee; president advisory board member of the National Society of Leadership and Success; and a New Student Orientation volunteer. Her honors/awards include: Phi Alpha Theta, International History Honor Society; Pi Sigma Alpha, Political Science Honor Society; Delta Epsilon Iota, Academic and Career Honor Society; Sigma Alpha Pi, Leadership and Success Honor Society; and an Excellence in Leadership Award from Student Affairs.

Humanities, Fine Arts, and Theology

Cheryl Frazier
Major: Philosophy
Minor: Art History

Although it took her two years to officially declare her major, Cheryl Frazier became a philosopher during her first week at Barry. Sitting in her philosophy class, Cheryl's first thought was, this is impossible, and her second thought was, so I must learn to do it. That attitude basically sums up Cheryl. A Stamps Scholar and an Honor Student, Cheryl became an officer in the Philosophy Club her first semester and was president by her sophomore year, a role she has held for three years. She has been a leading member of Barry's Ethics Bowl team for three years. She has been active in many campus organizations, including a four-year member of the Honors Program Student Advisory Board. Cheryl is a talented and prolific writer, having presented papers at six conferences, two of which have been published in academic journals. This spring she served as an Assistant Editorial Board member for Stance, an undergraduate philosophy journal. She received the Gerrit and Edith Schipper Award for Outstanding Undergraduate Philosophy Paper in a Four-Year College or University. Last summer, she participated in philosophy institutes at Carnegie Mellon University and Rutgers University. She has been inducted into seven honor societies and is the recipient of numerous awards. Cheryl will begin a PhD program in philosophy at the University of Oklahoma in the fall. She plans to specialize in aesthetics with the goal of becoming a philosophy professor.

Mathematics and Sciences

Lukas Bijaminas
Majors: Computer Science and Mathematics

Lukas is a double major in computer science and mathematics with a cumulative GPA of 3.992 where he has consistently exhibited outstanding performance and grasp of concepts. Faculty members have described his abilities as “setting a standard in homework, projects, and tests that few are able to match even occasionally let alone consistently” and “an outstanding student performing at the highest level”.
He has been involved in research with faculty mentors. He has presented his research results on Barry's campus (Poster presentations at the 5th and 6th annual Barry STEM symposium) as well as at the 2014 Life Sciences South Florida (LSSF) STEM Undergraduate Symposium. He co-authored and presented a paper (with faculty mentor Dr. James Haralambides) on “Reducing Double Data Rate (DDR) Latency for Embedded Image Steganography” at the 2014 International Conference on Embedded Systems in Las Vegas, Nevada. His other research projects included; “Power Consumption Comparisons for Cryptographic Algorithms using Symmetric Encryption and Primality Tests for Mobile Devices”, “Enhancing Blood Vessels in Retinal Images using Gaussian Filters” conducted with student co-authors under the direction of Dr. Haralambides and “Gradual Admittance into Network Groups (GANG)” with Dr. Rick Jimenez.
Lukas has also been involved in a variety of community service initiatives. His work with Computers for the Community under the direction of Dr. Jimenez has helped repair, upgrade and distribute computers to local high schools and community partners which cannot afford to purchase machines for use. He has worked with the Citizenship Clinic helping people with the process of becoming US Citizens.
Lukas has used his knowledge and skills in his academic field as developer and founder of Life Quality Studio Incorporated, an on-line retail business. He has also implemented an anonymous social network called Whimblr for college students on the same campus to exchange ideas, share news and communicate in general.
The faculty and staff of the Department of Mathematics and Computer Sciences unanimously and enthusiastically recommended Lukas for this award. His combination of academic excellence, research experience and service to the community are well deserving of the College of Arts and Sciences Dean's Award for Outstanding Graduate in Science and Mathematics (STEM disciplines).

Social and Behavioral Sciences

Shantell Monreal
Major: Pre-law
Minor: Psychology

Shantell Monreal is a Pre-Law major and a Psychology minor. Her academic work in both areas has been outstanding. Shantell is an ICUF Presidential Fellow. Her service to the University and community was recognized last year when this body awarded her the St. Catherine Medal. Shantell was a Student Government officer, was an officer in the Pre-Law fraternity, and for three years served as a student lobbyist in Tallahassee during Barry Days. She completed an internship with a Miami-Dade commissioner, was a volunteer at Sinai Plaza nursing center, was a volunteer at the Haitian Youth Community Center, and a tutor at Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic School. Shantell worked part-time at numerous jobs to help pay for her education. In the fall, Shantell will be attending law school.

Humanities and Theology

Dianna Bellian
Major: English
Specialization: Literature

A famous businessperson once wrote that “Productivity is never an accident. It is always the result of a commitment to excellence, intelligent planning, and focused effort.” These words provide a good, brief description of Dianna Bellian's career here at Barry. She pursued excellence in all her endeavors, planned her schedule and her life carefully, and focused a tremendous amount of effort on the things about which she cares. She excelled in her academic work, with a GPA of 3.87, a major in English with a specialization in Literature, and the successful completion of the Honors Program. She presented at academic conferences, including a paper she read at the Northeast Regional Honors Conference in Niagara, New York. She served as a writer and copy editor for The Barry Buccaneer. In addition, she was a member of the extremely successful Barry Ethics Bowl Team. Outside the classroom, she shone as well. She was president of the Honors Program Student Advisory Board for two years. She served as vice-president of both the English Association and the Philosophy Club. She worked as a Youth Leader at the Miami Shores Presbyterian Church and participated in several of the Annual College Brides' Walks Against Domestic Violence. The only problem with a student such as Dianna is that inevitably we must lose her. Four years pass so very quickly. Nevertheless, we wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors, which include teaching summer school in Arizona this summer and beginning graduate school in the Fall at Eastern Illinois University.

Mathematics and Sciences

Talia Guardia
Major: Biology
Minors: Chemistry and Mathematics

Talia Guardia, a biology major and chemistry minor, exemplifies the mission of Barry and has demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and community service. Since coming to Barry in Fall 2010, Talia maintained a GPA of 3.6-3.8. As an active participant in the NIH-supported RISE program, she began research as a freshman through the ROADS club and completed three years of cancer research in the biology department with Dr. Tang Hu. While enrolled at Barry, for three summers Talia also conducted research at research-intensive institutions - MIT, Cornell, and the National Cancer Institute, and presented that research at national scientific meetings. Talia was inducted into Sigma Xi, Delta Epsilon Iota, Tri Beta, and Gamma Sigma Epsilon; she was a member of the American Association of Cancer Research and was president of the Barry chapter of the American Medical Student Association. She accumulated a strong record of service to Barry and the wider community, including participating in toy drives, the Brides walk, Miami Beach clean-up, the Heart Walk, preparing Thanksgiving basket donations, and helping prepare chemistry ‘magic show' demonstrations for elementary school children. Talia served as a role model and inspiration to her peers. Talia will complete a cancer research internship at MIT before applying to the MD/PhD program.

Social and Behavioral Sciences

Leslie Redmond
Major: Political Science
Minors: Africana Studies

Leslie was a Political Science major with a minor in Africana Studies. She was inducted into several academic honor societies including: Phi Sigma Alpha (Political Science), Sigma Tau Delta (English), Phi Eta Sigma (Freshman), and Delta Epsilon Iota (Career Services). Leslie was president of the Barry Student Government Association. She was the recipient of the St. Catherine Medal, the Barry Resident Assistant of the Year Award and the Dr. George Wanko Award for junior class excellence. Leslie volunteered for Organizing for America, College Brides Walk, Martin Luther King Day of Service, and the Girl Scouts of America. She completed an internship with the U.S. Department of the Interior. Leslie will attend the University of St. Thomas Law School in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Humanities and Theology

Thomas Depalo
Major: Philosophy

Thomas Depalo came to Barry University specifically to study philosophy at Barry. While at Barry, Thomas was an outstanding member of Barry's Ethics Bowl Debate Team, which earned an invitation to the National Championship Competition in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was a member of the national philosophy honor society, Phi Sigma Tau and the Barry Philosophy club, where he served as an officer in both. Thomas was also a member of Barry's academic honor society Delta Epsilon Iota. Thomas was known for his insightful comments during class discussions, and for reading widely beyond the assigned texts; he regularly requested summer reading lists from faculty members. The Barry philosophy faculty all recognized Thomas's unique philosophical talent. Not only was Thomas a distinguished undergraduate scholar, he also had an excellent university and community service record. He served as Secretary of the Student Government Association, as the undergraduate representative of the Grade Appeal Committee, as one of Barry's representatives who lobbied for the continuation of FRAG, and as a member of Barry's Multicultural and Diversity Task Force. Thomas also gave back to the community by tutoring local elementary school students. Thomas was an outstanding student who blended high academic achievement (he graduated with a 3.899 GPA and completing his undergraduate education in three years) with active participation in University and community service. Thomas is a true intellectual who is working and planning to begin law school in the fall of 2014.

Mathematics and Sciences

Alec Davila
Major: Biology

Alec Davila, a biology major, graduated with a cumulative GPA of 3.966. At the end of his freshman year, he was inducted into the Phi Eta Sigma and Delta Epsilon Iota honor societies, and subsequently, the Gamma Sigma Epsilon, Tri-beta, Sigma Xi, and Alpha Chi honor societies. He was also the recipient of one of the 2013 Excellence in Leadership President's award for seniors. Biomedical research was an integral part of his training at Barry, first as a participant of the National Institutes of Health-supported ROADS research club in 2010, and then in 2011 and 2012 he was selected for summer research internships at the University of Florida and Seattle Children's Research Institute, respectively. As an NIH Maximizing Access to Research Careers (MARC) scholar, he also conducted research in the department of biology, winning research presentation awards at undergraduate symposia. In 2012, he participated in a quantitative biology workshop at MIT and later, received the Outstanding Physics Student Award. He was also committed to social and educational causes by helping to bridge the healthcare gap in under-served communities as a Spanish interpreter at health fairs, helping to organize food drives and deliver food to families during the Thanksgiving season as vice-president of Tri-beta, by encouraging the next generation of scientists, and by volunteering at science fairs and exhibits. Alec was accepted to several medical schools and PhD programs. He chose to enter the MD Program at the Medical College of Georgia at Georgia Regents University beginning Fall 2013.

Behavioral and Social Sciences

Sade Brooks
Major: Criminology

Sade Brooks graduated with a 3.649 cumulative GPA. Importantly, she clearly demonstrated her critical thinking skills throughout her time in the department. She was a thoughtful and engaged student who was on the Dean's List numerous times. Sade was also a member of Pi Gamma Mu honor society. In fall 2011, Sade completed a study abroad experience in Greece. In summer 2011, she interned with the Governor's Office of Crime Control and Prevention in Baltimore, Maryland, where she was also accepted to participate in the Roper Victim Assistance Academy, a 40-hour training for crime victim service providers as well as the 2011 National Center for Victims of Crime conference. Sade was also president of Ignite, the Sociology/Criminology club. The group, under Sade's leadership, sponsored a debate in the fall and a forum in April 2012. Sade dramatically expanded the club's activities, including on-campus events as well as service both on campus and off. She organized a very successful toy drive and holiday party for the children receiving services through No More Tears, a 501(c)3 organization that assists victims of domestic violence, and helped co-sponsor the Teens for Jeans program. Sade was actively involved in Barry's Environmental Sustainability Team (BEST) and helped to coordinate earth month programming. In addition, Sade was involved with Art in Motion on campus, serving as that group's Secretary and Public Relations volunteer. Sade worked as a Resident Assistant, helping to supervise residence hall students and coordinate educational programming. Sade went on to study law at the University of Maryland Francis King Carey School of Law.

Humanities and Theology

Grace Collins
Double Major: Philosophy and History

Grace Collins was one of Barry's most outstanding students. She earned a 3.872 GPA with a double major of Philosophy and History. She was in the Honors Program and successfully defended her Senior Thesis entitled “Perfect Races to Perfect Babies: The Moral Impermissibility of Genetic Enhancements.” She was a member of the Barry University chapter of the National Philosophical Honor Society, Phi Sigma Tau, and the History Honor Society Phi Alpha Theta. Grace was also a member of Barry's Ethics Bowl team that won an invitation to the National Championship Competition in Cincinnati, Ohio. Not only was Grace an outstanding student, she was extremely active in university and community service and was awarded the St. Catherine Medal for Outstanding Service her junior year. She was a four-year member and Captain of the Barry University Softball Team and won All-American honors for her excellent athletic achievements. Grace's career ambition was to become a lawyer and she is currently attending law school at the University of Florida.

Mathematics and Sciences

Daniel Morales
Major: Chemistry

Daniel Morales graduated with a B.S. in Chemistry with a specialization in Biochemistry and earned a cumulative GPA of 3.947. Daniel entered Barry after serving four years in the United States Navy. In his first year, Daniel was named the Outstanding Freshman Chemistry Student at Barry, and he was the recipient of the Department of Physical Sciences Honor Scholarship and the Chemistry and Physics Faculty Endowed Scholarship (the department's most prestigious scholarship award based on academic excellence, departmental mission support, and community service leadership). Daniel was active in service initiatives in both the Department of Physical Sciences and the community at large (Ronald McDonald House, Science Olympiad, and third Grade Chemistry Demonstrations to name a few). Daniel served as the President of the Student Affiliates of the American Chemical Society and presented a poster describing the award winning activities of the club at the 243rd National American Chemical Society Meeting in San Diego, California. Finally, Daniel conducted research in two different research groups. He performed theoretical calculations in astrophysics to detect the existence of the axion, a hypothetical elementary particle, with Dr. Maurizio Giannotti. He also conducted synthetic organic research synthesizing muscarinic agonists for the potential therapeutic use in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease with Dr. John Boulos. Daniel truly exemplifies the qualities of outstanding service and academics that earned him the honor of being named the Outstanding Graduate in science and mathematics for the College of Arts and Sciences for 2012. Daniel went on to study medicine at St. George's University School of Medicine in Grenada.