2026 DOSA Recipients
2026 DOSA Recipients
2026 Dean's Outstanding Senior Awards
Fatima Akin
Biological & Biomedical Sciences
Fatima Akin is graduating with a B.S. in Molecular and Cellular Biology, with minors in Neuroscience, Pre-Med, and Psychology, and Honors. She also earned a Certificate in Biotechnology and Regenerative Medicine. At Rowan, she conducts research in Dr. Claude Krummenacher’s laboratory, where she tests drugs against human herpesviruses, and is a fellow of the NIH-sponsored U-RISE program. Fatima is actively involved across campus, with interests ranging from immunology to field hockey. Following graduation, she plans to pursue a Ph.D. in biomedical research.
Sushanth Ambati
Computer Science
Sushanth Ambati is graduating with a B.S. in Computer Science and a minor in Mathematics. He is a member of the Honors College and has held leadership roles including Treasurer of the Upsilon Pi Epsilon Honor Society. Sushanth has contributed extensively as a Learning Assistant, Community Assistant, and senior full-stack developer on the Web Team. He has completed multiple research projects and presented his work at USENIX Security 2025. Following graduation, he will continue his studies at Rowan University pursuing a Ph.D. in Data Science.
Shania Beharie
Biological & Biomedical Sciences
Shania Beharie is graduating with a B.S. in Biological Sciences, with minors in Chemistry and Pre-Med. She conducts research in Dr. Claude Krummenacher’s laboratory, where she studies inhibitory compounds against herpes viruses affecting humans and animals, and is a fellow of the NIH-sponsored U-RISE program. Shania is known for her dedication and resilience, as well as her passion for animal health. Following graduation, she plans to pursue a career in veterinary medicine.
Sabrina Chunn
Biological & Biomedical Sciences
Sabrina Chunn is completing an M.S. in Bioinformatics after earning B.S. degrees in Bioinformatics and Biochemistry. During her time at Rowan, she has distinguished herself as a student, educator, and researcher. She has worked in Dr. Chen’s lab developing statistical models and pipelines for single-cell omics data analysis, with applications in drug treatment research. Sabrina has also supported fellow students as a peer tutor through Academic Success Programs. Following graduation, she plans to pursue a Ph.D. and a career advancing computational methods in biological and disease research.
Charlotte Cundiff
Psychology
Charlotte Cundiff is graduating with a B.A. in Psychology and a minor in Education. She has been actively involved in research in the SAFE Behavior Lab, contributing to presentations, manuscripts, and grant writing efforts. Charlotte has also completed an internship with a school psychologist and has served as a camp counselor and peer tutor. Following graduation, she plans to pursue an Ed.S. in School Psychology and continue supporting neurodivergent youth and their families.
Alyssa Dudzic
Psychology
Alyssa Dudzic is graduating with a B.S. in Psychological Science. She completed her degree in three years while excelling in advanced coursework in statistics and research methods. Alyssa has served as a Learning Assistant and is a member of Psi Chi. She contributed to multiple research projects in the ROAD Lab and presented her work at the Psychology Research Conference. Following graduation, she plans to pursue graduate study to become a licensed therapist.
Ava Esposito
Computer Science
Ava Esposito is graduating with a B.S. in Computer Science and a minor in Mathematics. She is an active member of Upsilon Pi Epsilon and ACM-W, serving in leadership roles including UPE Secretary and ACM-W Web/Public Relations Coordinator. Ava has supported student success as a Learning Assistant for three years and completed a co-op with Lockheed Martin, where she continues to work. Following graduation, she will continue her studies through Rowan’s accelerated dual degree program.
Daniel Jasinski
Environmental Science
Daniel Jasinski is graduating with a B.S. in Environmental Science. He has contributed to research in Dr. Thivanka Ariyarathna’s lab, investigating the distribution and accumulation of PFAS and their impact on environmental and human health. In addition to his academic work, Daniel is an accomplished musician and a volunteer firefighter in his hometown. Following graduation, he will begin a position with an environmental consulting firm and plans to pursue graduate study.
Grandal Makaylab
Physics & Astronomy
Makaylab Grandal is graduating with a B.S. in Biophysics and a Certificate of Undergraduate Study in Health Physics. She is a U-RISE Fellow and has conducted research in the Whiting Lab for three years, as well as completed an REU at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Makaylab has presented her work at multiple professional conferences and received recognition for her research. She has also served as a Learning Assistant, mentor, and student representative on the Academic Integrity Violations Board. Following graduation, she plans to pursue a Ph.D.
Madison Morris
Chemistry & Biochemistry
Madison Morris is graduating with a B.S. in Chemistry. She has spent two years conducting research in Dr. Gustavo Moura-Letts’ laboratory, where she has contributed to ongoing projects and is currently working toward her first manuscript for publication. Through her work in the lab, Madison has developed strong research skills and a commitment to scientific inquiry. Following graduation, she plans to pursue graduate studies in chemistry.
Jessica Rippman
Mathematics
Jessica Rippman is graduating with a B.A. in Mathematics, with a concentration in Statistics, a minor in Data Science, and a certificate in Database Fundamentals. She has distinguished herself through research and leadership, earning the Outstanding Junior Award in Mathematics and serving as Lead Extern on a statewide data science initiative. Jessica is also President of the Rowan Association for Women in Mathematics and is active in community service. Following graduation, she plans to apply her skills in data science and statistics.
Scott Schmal
Geology
Scott Schmal is graduating with a B.S. in Geology, with a concentration in Paleontology and a Certificate of Undergraduate Study in PaleoArt. He participated in NSF-sponsored fieldwork in Montana, contributing to the excavation of Diplodocus specimens, and has presented research on fossil kinematics at a regional conference. Scott has served as a preceptor for Field Methods and contributed to organizing departmental fossil collections. Following graduation, he plans to continue his work in paleontology and field research.
Noelle Simmons
Chemistry & Biochemistry
Noelle Simmons is graduating with a B.S. in Chemistry. A transfer student, she completed her degree on an accelerated timeline while building a strong foundation in research. She was selected to participate in a competitive REU program at Florida State University, further expanding her experience in the field. Following graduation, she plans to pursue graduate studies in chemistry.
Raven Vijayakumar
Geography, Planning & Sustainability
Raven Vijayakumar is graduating with a B.S. in Geographic Information Science, a B.A. in Environmental and Sustainability Studies, and a B.A. in Geography, with a minor in Planning. He has collaborated on multiple research projects with faculty and led the Rowan University Student Planning Organization. Raven has also conducted independent research and presented his work at regional and national conferences. Following graduation, he plans to continue advancing his work in environmental research and planning.