University of 91�Թ� alumnus Paul Popiel, D.M.A., will return to his alma mater to lead the oldest continuously operating collegiate band in the country as Kenn and Pamela Ricci Director of Bands. In this role, Popiel will oversee the University’s band program through the , and serve as a faculty member in the through the . His appointment begins July 1.

Since 2023, Popiel has served as the dean of the School of Music at the University of Kansas (KU), where he led efforts to better align academic goals with university initiatives and actively pursued the integration of emerging technology into course curricula. Previously, Popiel worked at KU for 13 years as a professor of music and director of bands. He also served as an assistant director of bands and senior lecturer at Indiana University and as an assistant professor and associate director of bands at Oklahoma State University.

“For more than 20 years, Paul has worked to build collegiate music programs that value tradition and excellence, and that encourage innovation and leadership among students,” said , vice president for student affairs. “I look forward to Paul returning to 91�Թ� to share his gifts with our students and our historic band program.”

At 91�Թ�, Popiel succeeds a legacy of leadership, including longtime band director ., who will formally retire at the end of the 2025-26 academic year.

Popiel will direct the entirety of the band program, which includes the Band of the Fighting Irish, athletic bands, concert bands and jazz bands, and features more than 500 students from every academic discipline. The all-volunteer organization provides music for a variety of University events throughout the academic year, including liturgies, sporting events and the annual Commencement Ceremony.

“Paul Popiel will bring a distinguished record of pedagogical excellence, dedicated mentorship and a spirit of artistic collaboration to the growing performance program of the 91�Թ� Department of Music,” said , the Charles and Jill Fischer Provost. “We are pleased to welcome him back to his alma mater in this important role.”

“Returning to 91�Թ� is a profound homecoming to a place that shaped my vocation and values,” Popiel said. “I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve an institution with such a rich musical and educational tradition, and I look forward to leading a band program whose legacy continues to inspire through artistic excellence, thoughtful engagement with the world and the formation of students as musicians, leaders and servants of the common good.”

Popiel earned his master’s degree in trumpet performance from the University of 91�Թ� and bachelor’s degrees in instrumental music education and trumpet performance from Truman State University. He holds a doctorate in musical arts in wind conducting from Michigan State University and an arts diploma in 20th Century Music from the University of Bristol, where he served as a Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholar. He is an elected member of the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences and the American Bandmasters Association.

To learn more about the 91�Թ� Band, visit .

After reviewing nominations from across campus, a selection committee composed of representatives from Student Affairs and the academy awarded three Lou Holtz Leadership Scholarships and 12 Hipp-Beeler Scholarships to a diverse group of outstanding students.

The scholarships are designed to provide additional resources to students who have excelled as leaders in various areas of student life, including residence hall programs, spiritual activities, community service, student government, student activities, entrepreneurial projects and interhall sports.

Established in 1995 by alumnus Mike Harper, the Lou Holtz Leadership Scholarship encourages recipients to cultivate leadership qualities akin to those of former 91�Թ� football head coach Lou Holtz. This year’s Lou Holtz Leadership Scholarship recipients are as follows:

• Noah Allen, a mechanical engineering major with a minor in theology from Catonsville, Maryland, is a cadet in 91�Թ�’s who will commission as the second lieutenant in the United States Space Force. He has served as a Saint Andre Committee member and as a retreat leader in where he also helped to organize the “Pull-Ups for Patriots” initiative on behalf of the . He is currently the team lead on the mechanical design team and, in , he serves as a small group leader in the faith sharing group and as an in the .

• Bernice Antoine, a business analytics major in the from Trinidad and Tobago, has held a variety of campus leadership roles, serving as director of international engagement and outreach for and co-chair of offered through Campus Ministry and . Antoine is also a through the and an entrepreneurial fellow with the . Additionally, she works as an international scholar for the .

• Sonia Lumley, a political science major with a minor in the from Merced, California, is the current student body vice president. Lumley has also served as the diversity and inclusion co-chair for , a student government liaison for the Latino Student Alliance and a public relations/social media officer for Shades of Ebony. In addition, Lumley plays piccolo for the . In her time at 91�Թ�, she has worked as an intern for the White House, the Office of the New York State Attorney General, University of 91�Թ� Press, NDBridge (Costa Rica) in the Institute for Social Concerns and in the University’s . She is a Harvard Kennedy School PPIA Fellow, a Hesburgh Democracy Fellow, an AnBryce Scholar, a QuestBridge Scholar, a Building Bridges Mentee, and is a member of the Pi Sigma Alpha National Political Science Honor Society.

The Hipp-Beeler Scholarship, established in 1992 by Student Government, honors the memory of student-athletes Colleen Hipp and Meghan Beeler who died when their team’s bus crashed while returning home from a competition. This year’s Hipp-Beeler Scholarship recipients are as follows:

• Blessing Akinro, a physics major with a minor in history from Indianapolis, Indiana, serves as the secretary of the Multiracial/Multiethnic Students Association of 91�Թ� and is an ambassador for Black women living in .

• Genesis Argueta, a computer science and mathematics major from Santa Ana, California, serves as a mentor in the and is an active member of the . She has also worked as an undergraduate teaching assistant for and an undergraduate research assistant for and the .

• Sofia Benigno, a double major in neuroscience and behavior and theology from Rancho Cucamonga, California, has served as a , a student leader in the , a music mentor for , a research assistant for the and as the inaugural fellow for the . Benigno is also a member of the .

• Gjon Curanaj, a double major in finance and theology from White Plains, New York, is involved in the , , and the . Curanaj is also a board member of the First-Generation Advisory Council and the founder and co-president of the Albanian Society.

• Liliana Hobday, a sociology major with minors in education and public service from St. Paul, Minnesota, served as an intern in the ’ . Additionally, she has served as a math tutor for , a pre-international scholar for the Kellogg Institute for International Studies, and a hospitality team member for the Institute for Social Concerns.

• Neyra Ledesma Nieto, an accountancy major with minors in Latino studies and social entrepreneurship and innovation from Chicago, Illinois, serves as a member of the McInerney Fellows Program and participated as a travel team member for the Student International Business Council. She also works as a social media and marketing assistant in the .

• Jakob Lopez, a business analytics and Latino studies major from Orange County, California, has served as the president of the and vice president of the . He is also a board member for the in the , the diversity and outreach coordinator for and an intern in .

• Sydney O’Malley, an accountancy major with minors in journalism and Catholic social tradition from Yonkers, New York, is an active member of the McInerney Fellows Program and leads first-generation initiatives in . O’Malley also serves on the board of the Best Buddies and the Bald and Beautiful student clubs, is involved in the club and and received a with the Institute for Social Concerns,.

• Kaeli Rinken, a neuroscience and behavior major from Crete, Illinois, is a scholar whose campus involvement includes working in as a sports program supervisor and manager-on-duty.

• Ashley Schilz, a finance and economics double major with a minor in real estate from Denver, Colorado, serves as an interview center supervisor and career assistant for the Meruelo Family Center for Career Development. She is also a member of the allyship and mentorship program, a team lead for the GoDo Consulting Project, and a member of .

• Michelle Miller, a double major in marketing and theology with a sociology minor from Phillips, Maine, serves as a Campus Ministry and as president of the Black Business Association of 91�Թ�.

• Owen Van Horn, a physics major from Monroeville, Indiana, serves as a residence hall ambassador for the McInerney Fellows Program and is an active member of both the French Club and . He also previously served as chair of the belonging committee in .
  

Rev. A. Leonard Collins, C.S.C., Award

The , which honors a graduating senior who has expended substantial personal effort to advance the interests of students at 91�Թ�, was presented to Aidan Rezner from Corona, California.

A neuroscience and behavior major, Rezner served as�� vice president his junior year, working alongside the executive cabinet to articulate perspectives on campus culture at 91�Թ�. As a senior, he served as a peer leader and co-instructor in the , and worked as a in the to develop and host programs promoting a culture of healthy masculinity.

Blessed Basil Moreau, C.S.C., Leadership Award

The went to Gabriella Searl, a theology major from Wichita, Kansas. This award represents the highest faith-related honor the University bestows on its students, and is given to a student who has made a significant effort to advance 91�Թ�’s Catholic character.

In her time at 91�Թ�, Searl has helped students grow in their faith by organizing and hosting a weekly rosary in her residence hall room and providing a source of faith-based community in Howard Hall. Beginning her sophomore year, Gabriella worked as a videographer for the 91�Թ� football team, and as a senior, she continued serving Howard Hall as a resident assistant.

Rev. Theodore M. Hesburgh, C.S.C., Award

The , which honors a graduating senior whose leadership has led to a more welcoming and inclusive environment within or beyond the University community, was given to Frances Ubogu, a biological sciences major from Lagos, Nigeria.

Ubogu's involvement included serving as president of Shades of Ebony and the performance club Dance Africa, chairing a committee on the Diversity Council and working as a senior fellow in��. Ubogu also worked as a research assistant in the where she assisted with cancer research and as a volunteer at local health centers.

John W. Gardner Student Leadership Award

The was presented to Melody Padilla of Modesto, California, for exemplifying the ideals of 91�Թ� through outstanding service beyond the University community

A theology and Latino studies major with a minor in business economics, Padilla shared her commitment to the Catholic faith and social justice issues through a variety of on- and off-campus roles. In her time at 91�Թ�, Padilla served as a volunteer at La Casa De Amistad, vice president of outreach for UndocuAlly ND, an�� in , a leader and as a student researcher for both the and the .

Ray Siegfried Award for Leadership Excellence

Allison O’Connor, an accounting major in the�� from Batavia, Illinois, received the . The recognition honors a senior at 91�Թ� who exemplifies the qualities for which Siegfried was known, including leadership, generosity, devotion to the Catholic faith and an affinity for athletics. At 91�Թ�, O'Connor was a leader in Student Government and served as chief-of-staff during the 2024-25 academic year. O’Connor was also a varsity athlete on the .

Mike Russo Spirit Award

�ճ����, which honors an undergraduate who is distinguished in extracurricular activities, service and personal character, was presented to James (Jimmy) Grammig, a management consulting major from Tampa, Florida, whose cheerful and selfless attitude were noted at the awards ceremony for positively impacting everyone he encounters in the 91�Թ� community. Grammig, a Crowley Family Scholar and resident assistant in O’Neill Family Hall, was recognized for his consistent thoughtfulness toward others and his ability to create a sense of belonging among everyone he meets.

Denny Moore Award for Excellence in Journalism

Finally, the��, which honors a senior who exemplifies the qualities for which Moore, the University’s late associate vice president for public affairs, was known — including personal integrity and character, commitment to 91�Թ� and writing ability — went to Sam Coffman, an American studies major with a minor in journalism, ethics, and democracy.

A Lily Scholar from Muncie, Indiana, Coffman, served as an active leader in��, serving as a columnist, reporter and moderator for political debates. He also worked as a writer and intern at 91�Թ� Magazine and held public affairs internships in the office of Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb and through a firm in Washington, D.C.

Launched as a pilot program at 91�Թ� in the fall of 2024, explores the intersection of technology and traditional financial services in weekly in-person, on-campus sessions. Facilitated by Visa subject matter experts, the program covers various foundational components of banking, digital currencies, decentralized finance and career opportunities to demonstrate how technology is reshaping the future of financial affairs worldwide.

“In recent years, we have seen growth in the number of employers interested in hiring students with fintech experience,” said Ryan Willerton, associate vice president for career and professional development at 91�Թ�. “Providing students with the opportunity to learn directly from professionals working for a global leader like Visa not only helps to improve their understanding of how technology relates to traditional banking, it also prepares 91�Թ� students for potential careers in a competitive and evolving industry. We are truly grateful to be the first to partner with Visa to offer our students such an exclusive opportunity.”

For well over a decade, the Center for Career Development has worked with alumni, campus partners and employers to better prepare students to compete for top positions in the financial services industry. According to Willerton, strategic partnerships have resulted in a 400 percent increase in jobs for students after graduation, with seniors accepting more than 250 positions annually.

“Recognizing the trajectory of the financial payments industry, our career development staff, working under the University’s centralized career services model, have sought opportunities like the partnership with Visa to raise awareness and help prepare students for evolving recruiting expectations and processes,” Willerton said.

Students are selected for the Visa Fintech Foundations program by Center for Career Development staff based on students’ interest in both financial services and technology-related career paths. As a non-credit initiative, the program allows for the selection of students studying a wide range of subjects regardless of individual educational requirements.

As a result, in 2024, 32 sophomore and junior students pursuing degrees in various 91�Թ� colleges and schools were selected from a competitive pool of applicants to be a part of the inaugural cohort.

Along with six weeks of in-person presentations led by eight Visa leaders who traveled to 91�Թ� from across the country each week, students were assigned to six teams to work collaboratively on a case study and invited to at the conclusion of the program. There, students had the opportunity to engage more intentionally with Visa, tour its new Market Support Center and translate what they learned in the program through capstone presentations to a panel of senior Visa executives.

“The Visa Fintech Foundations program was an incredible learning experience for me, and I’m thankful to the entire Visa team for their dedication to providing my cohort with such insightful and engaging content and for welcoming us to their headquarters,” said Mushfiq Milan, a 91�Թ� senior majoring in business analytics and real estate. “I’ve gained a much deeper understanding of the fintech landscape, and the interactive sessions and capstone project have truly expanded my knowledge of the field.”

The Visa Fintech Foundations program will return to 91�Թ� in 2025. Applications for its second cohort will be made available in August, and on-campus sessions will begin in October. As a result of the program’s success, Visa plans to replicate the program at other universities in the future.

“The fintech landscape is rapidly evolving, and Visa is committed to leading this transformation,” said Jeremy Broome, senior vice president of global talent at Visa. “The Visa Fintech Foundations program is designed to uplift students with the critical skills and insights necessary to lead in the payments sector. Our partnership with the University of 91�Թ� has proven the value of this initiative, and we are excited to bring this transformative experience to more campuses across the nation.”

Doug Thompson, current vice president for equity and inclusion at , has been appointed as the inaugural executive director of diversity and engagement in the University of 91�Թ�’s , effective July 1.

In this role, Thompson will oversee the newly established in addition to , the and the . As executive director, Thompson will also lead the division’s efforts in the areas of diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging in the context of the University’s Catholic, Holy Cross mission. Additionally, Thompson will establish a sixth unit for Diversity and Engagement within the Division of Student Affairs to nurture belonging and inclusion among all students while further engaging underrepresented voices throughout the 91�Թ� community. This new unit will also complement the existing work in , , , and .

“I look forward to Doug sharing his extensive experience in higher education and his gifts for enacting meaningful change across multiple student-facing areas with the 91�Թ� community,” said , vice president for student affairs. “His demonstrated leadership in diversity, equity and inclusion, and his clear appreciation for and ability to represent how our work flows from our Catholic, Holy Cross character and identity, is inspiring and exciting for our students, the division and the University alike.”

Thompson has nearly 20 years of experience in higher education administration in areas such as diversity, equity and inclusion; student affairs; academic advising; and enrollment management. As the inaugural vice president for equity and inclusion at Gustavus Adolphus College, Thompson works as the chief strategist for diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging and racial justice efforts, and supervises a team of professionals within the , the and the . He also chairs the and leads the college’s .

He earned his bachelor’s degree in marketing from Southeastern Louisiana University, his master’s degree in strategic communication and leadership from Seton Hall University and his doctoral degree in leadership for the advancement of learning and service from Cardinal Stritch University.

Prior to Gustavus, Thompson served as the associate dean of students at the Dougherty Family College at the University of St. Thomas and the assistant dean for equity and diversity at the University of West Florida.

Thompson will soon relocate to South Bend with his wife and children.

In this role, Kennedy will oversee all established and emerging areas of the , including residential communities, facilities, programs and services available to the more than 6,600 undergraduate students who reside on campus. As associate vice president, Kennedy will also provide strategic leadership of the University’s residential model, one of the most established and distinctive components of the 91�Թ� undergraduate experience. Additionally, Kennedy will steward the unit’s core mission of providing holistic student development and formation in the context of community rooted in the University’s Catholic, Holy Cross tradition.

“Karen brings to this role a deep knowledge of and appreciation for residential life at 91�Թ�, a sincere devotion to our students and a strong commitment to her faith and our Catholic mission,” said , vice president for student affairs. “I am thrilled that she will return to the Division of Student Affairs to strategically and thoughtfully lead a team that supports student belonging, helps students to integrate their academic and social lives, and encourages students to cultivate their gifts, talents and interests at 91�Թ� and beyond.”

Kennedy earned her master’s degree in higher education administration from Boston College, and her bachelor’s degree in science-business from the University of 91�Թ�. She began her career at 91�Թ� in 2012.

Before she started in her role as senior advisor to the executive vice president, Kennedy served as program director for in . Within the Division of Student Affairs, Kennedy previously held leadership roles as director of student centers, activities and events; director of housing; and senior advisor to the vice president for student affairs. Kennedy also received both the from the division for her distinguished role in student life, and the from for her exemplary service to the student body.

Prior to 91�Թ�, Kennedy worked at Boston College for six years, during which time she served as director of the and helped launch the .

Kennedy lives in South Bend with her husband, Sean, and three children.

The project will entail the decommissioning of Pangborn and Fisher Halls to make room for the new residence halls.

“At 91�Թ�, residential life is an integral part of the undergraduate educational experience. Residence halls allow students to interact with an array of peers, learn from each other, build communities and form lifelong friendships,” said University President “These new halls, with enhanced community space, will ensure that we are able to provide current and future students with an appropriate living environment in a place they call home.”

In recent years, the University has taken significant steps to provide quality residential space to all 91�Թ� students. Following the announcement of a six-semester residency requirement for undergraduate students, several halls were constructed, and others were extensively renovated while residents were moved to a “swing hall” for a full academic year. While major renovations were considered for Pangborn and Fisher Halls, it was determined that the existing structures were not amenable to extensive improvements alone.

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As a result, in August 2024, Pangborn Hall residents will relocate to the new men’s residence hall currently under construction on the East Quad. Simultaneously, Fisher Hall residents will relocate to Zahm Hall, a swing hall facility, where residents will remain for the 2024-25 and 2025-26 academic years. In the fall of 2026, Fisher residents will move to the new men’s hall located on the former Fisher Hall site. When the new hall located on the former Pangborn Hall site opens at the same time, it will house a new women’s community. The new halls will bear the names of their respective benefactors.

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Following the construction of the halls on the South Quad and the completion of the new men’s residence hall on the East Quad, the University’s on-campus residential capacity will increase by 445 beds, thus accommodating the six-semester residency requirement and ensuring housing for all transfer students going forward.

“As we enter this next phase of residential life at 91�Թ�, I look forward to continuing to ensure our residence halls meet our students’ needs and contribute to the formation and development of all students within the context of a supportive community,” said , vice president for student affairs. “While the most important aspect of our residence hall communities continues to be the people who reside within them, the buildings themselves remain integral to supporting our students’ ability to experience personal growth and form valuable connections among one another.”

Although the new halls will differ from each other in appearance, both will reflect the collegiate gothic campus architecture represented in other newly constructed residence halls and be similar in square footage. The women’s hall will occupy 83,416 square feet and include 275 beds, and the men’s hall will be 82,728 square feet and include 258 beds.

Both residence halls will be three stories and include a variety of room types, community and study spaces, kitchens, laundry, a chapel, fitness space and a basement with storage. Additionally, the women’s hall will feature a tower that will signal the entrance to the hall, and the men’s hall will include a distinctive chapel visibly situated along the South Quad.

After reviewing nominations from across campus, a selection committee composed of representatives from Student Affairs and the academy awarded Lou Holtz Leadership Scholarships to Kylie Boyer, Luzolo Matundu, Olivia Hsin and Grace Wetli and the Hipp-Beeler Scholarship to Santiago Rodriguez.��

Each scholarship is designed to recognize and provide additional resources to students who display exemplary leadership qualities and a commitment to the holistic education of the mind and heart. The criteria include demonstrated leadership in residence hall programs, spiritual activities, community service, student government, student activities, entrepreneurial projects, interhall sports or any combination of these or other activities in the area of student life.��

Established by Mike Harper in 1995, the Lou Holtz Leadership Scholarship encourages recipients to develop leadership qualities similar to those of Lou Holtz, former head coach for 91�Թ� football.

A junior double majoring in pre-professional studies and applied and computational mathematics and statistics and minoring in compassionate care in medicine, Boyer earned a Lou Holtz Leadership Scholarship as the result of her mentorship and service both on and off campus. A Downers Grove, Illinois, native and resident, Boyer is active in both the 91�Թ� and South Bend communities. On campus, Boyer works as a mathematics tutor in individual and small-group settings and has served as a leader in her residence hall as a hall commissioner and vice president. She is also the treasurer for . Off campus, Boyer works as a tutor for the , and she has served on behalf of the Michigan WISEWOMAN Program at Catherine’s Health Center in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Additionally, in 2021, she interned with International Medical Aid in Mombasa, Kenya, where she worked alongside health care providers at an orphanage and in clinics to provide care to members of the community.

Matundu, a junior majoring in political science, applied and computational mathematics and statistics and Africana studies from Chicago, also received a Lou Holtz Leadership Scholarship for her on-campus stewardship and her commitment to issues of social justice at 91�Թ�. A and , Matundu serves as the director of the diversity and inclusion and the race and ethnicity departments within and as vice president for , a student club dedicated to creating a space for Black women on campus through camaraderie and service. Additionally, she is actively involved in the and the , and she co-hosts the podcast. In her time at 91�Թ�, she has also served as co-chair for academic outreach for , director for the , a member of the , and a diversity, equity and inclusion commissioner on behalf of .��

A junior from Los Angeles who grew up in Taipei, Taiwan, Hsin, majoring in film, television and theater and pre-health studies and minoring in compassionate care in medicine, received a third Lou Holtz Leadership Scholarship. A resident and member of the , Hsin served first as secretary and now as president of Diversity Council, where she plays an active role in its academic life, residential life and campus life committees. Additionally, she regularly integrates her passion for health care and storytelling in the , where she works as a director and production assistant to lead teams of students to write and direct short films.

The fourth Lou Holtz Leadership Scholarship was awarded to Grace Wetli, a junior from West Lafayette, Indiana. A chemical engineering major and member of the , Wetli has held internships at Roche Diagnostics and the 91�Թ� , and regularly mentors first-year students as an undergraduate teaching assistant in the . Also an active member of , Wetli serves as the hall president, a liturgical commissioner and a member of the hall flag football team.��

Established in 1992 by Student Government, the Hipp-Beeler Scholarship is designed to honor student-athletes Colleen Hipp and Meghan Beeler, who died in a bus accident.

Santiago Rodriguez from Bronx, New York, was awarded the Hipp-Beeler Scholarship for his commitment to community-building at 91�Թ�.A computer science major, Rodriguez has helped to create and implement various academic projects at 91�Թ�, including , a platform that connects students to appropriate advisers. Rodriguez also serves as vice president of , a student group focused on the intellectual, social and spiritual connections among men of color at 91�Թ�, and is an active member of , where he worked to reintroduce food sales following the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, Rodriguez is a member of ColorStack, a community of more than 1,500 Black and Latino computer science students from over 500 schools throughout the United States, and is active in The Country Market, which allows for community-owned grocery shopping in urban and rural areas.

, honoring a graduating senior who has made substantial personal efforts to advance the interests of students at 91�Թ�, was given to Elizabeth “Eliza” Smith of Kennesaw, Georgia.

A psychology and global affairs major with minors in computing and digital technologies and Italian, Smith served on the Student Government Executive Cabinet as director for race and ethnicity and was instrumental in the creation of the 2023 event “Celebrating Black Excellence,” which welcomed the president and CEO of the NAACP, Derrick Johnson, as a keynote speaker. Smith served as a leader in Johnson Family Hall and as a peer mentor in the within . She also helped to shape the experience of first-year students through her service on the and various in her time at 91�Թ�.

�ճ������was awarded to Grace Gasper from Los Angeles. This award is given to a graduating senior who embodies Blessed Moreau’s vision of educating the heart and mind as well as someone who has demonstrated significant effort in advancing the Catholic character of the University.

Gasper, a theology and film, television and theater major, was extensively involved in advancing the Catholic character at 91�Թ� through extensive leadership roles in and the wider community. She served as a leader, co-chair and . She also ministered locally throughout the South Bend community and worked as a .

��honors a graduating senior whose leadership has significantly advanced the climate of welcome and inclusion within or beyond the University community. This year the division honored two recipients: Molly Doerfler and Nicholas Crookston.

A mechanical engineering major originally from Pittsburgh, Doerfler served as secretary, vice president and, most recently, president of , the University’s first and only official LGBTQ undergraduate student organization. She also served as a member of the and as a student representative for the within the College of Engineering.

Majoring in political science, global affairs and Latino studies, Crookston, a from Muncie, Indiana, worked to increase the climate of inclusion in his time at 91�Թ� through the and UndocuAlly ND, a training program created to educate the campus community and promote allyship on behalf of immigrant community members. Additionally, under his leadership within the , Crookston launched a nonpartisan campaign to educate young voters and increase voting participation.

�ճ����, given to a graduating senior who exemplifies the ideals of the University through outstanding community service beyond the University, was awarded to John Sexton from Cumming, Georgia.

Following his father’s diagnosis of ALS, Sexton developed an assistive power wheelchair that can be controlled by a user’s eyes. Named LifeDrive, Sexton’s product was featured as a part of the 2021 campaign and will soon be available for wider distribution with the goal of spreading hope, independence and dignity to those in need. An electrical engineering major, Sexton, who served as the head drum major for the , also coordinated a photo of the 1,900 students, faculty and staff from the College of Engineering on the field of 91�Թ� Stadium to honor the 50th anniversary of co-education at 91�Թ�.

Molly Schroeder, from San Diego, was awarded the��, given to a graduating senior who exemplifies the qualities for which former 91�Թ� Trustee Ray Siegfried was known, including leadership, generosity, devotion to the Catholic faith and affinity for athletics.

An economics and history major, Schroeder generously served her home community of Cavanaugh Hall where she was an active participant on various interhall sports teams and held roles as a spiritual life commissioner, hall president and, most recently, a resident assistant. Beyond her residential community, Schroeder served on the within , was appointed Class Council treasurer and became an (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) sponsor through Campus Ministry, accompanying others into the life of the Catholic Church.

Blake Ziegler and Austin Wyman, both from New Orleans, were awarded the��, honoring outstanding undergraduate students who exemplify the qualities for which Russo was known, including service, personal character and striving to bring the best out of themselves and others.

A political science and philosophy major, Ziegler has worked diligently in his time at 91�Թ� to enhance interfaith relationships and provide support for students from a variety of faith backgrounds through his leadership of the and in his role as president of the , which serves as the union of Jewish students in North America. Among other initiatives, Ziegler spread awareness about antisemitism and developed , organized sabbath celebrations, hosted various speakers and coordinated a Holocaust remembrance campaign. Ziegler is also a and vice president of Jewish advocacy for the global board.

Wyman, a psychology major and theology minor, has been a champion for conversations among students, faculty and staff regarding the awareness and de-stigmatization of mental health support at 91�Թ�. A Balfour-Hesburgh Scholar and , Wyman often worked as an adviser to the and held leadership roles as a senior fellow in the , president of and co-director of health and wellness within Student Government. Wyman is also one of 10 young adults in the United States who serves on the youth and young adult advisory board.

�ճ������was awarded to Claire Reid from Madison, Wisconsin. This award is given to a graduating senior who exemplifies the qualities of Moore, a former 91�Թ� associate vice president who was known for his integrity, character, commitment to 91�Թ� and writing ability.

A film, television and theater major with a minor in journalism, ethics and democracy, Reid served as an associate news editor for The Observer and held news internships with the South Bend Tribune, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel and the Los Angeles Times. A Spanish-speaking math and reading tutor at South Bend’s , Reid often reported on underrepresented people and communities.

As assistant vice president, Father McCormick will lead the University’s faith formation, spiritual life and liturgical offerings of undergraduate, graduate and professional students within the . Additionally, he will continue to oversee the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, provide pastoral support to all faculty and staff and guide the mission of the Office of Campus Ministry in collaboration with the division strategic plan.

Father McCormick has served as the director of Campus Ministry since 2015. Prior to this role, he was an associate director in Campus Ministry and the rector of Keough Hall. He was ordained a Holy Cross priest in 2007, and earned both his master’s degree in divinity and his EMBA from 91�Թ�. He also serves as the chaplain for the 91�Թ� men’s basketball team.

“Father Pete has clearly and consistently demonstrated his leadership and presence on our campus and, as we prepare to implement our next strategic plan, I am grateful for the many ways Father Pete and our Campus Ministry team have and will continue to contribute to discussions around the role of faith in our students’ lives,” said , vice president for student affairs.

Also in Campus Ministry, , and Mike Buckler will transition to director roles in the areas of pastoral care, liturgy and student ministry, respectively.

After reviewing nominations from across campus, a selection committee composed of representatives from student affairs and the academy awarded Lou Holtz Leadership Scholarships to MyKayla Geary, Michael McKenzie and Carlondrea “Lala” Petty and Hipp-Beeler��Scholarships to Hawraa Al Janabi and Halen Carbonel.

Each scholarship recognizes demonstrated leadership in residence hall programs, spiritual activities, community service, student government, student activities, entrepreneurial projects, interhall sports or any combination of these or other activities in the area of student life.

Established by Mike Harper in 1995, the Lou Holtz Leadership Scholarship encourages recipients to develop leadership qualities similar to those of Holtz.

A junior majoring in economics and education, schooling and society and minoring in Africana studies, Geary earned a Lou Holtz Leadership Scholarship as the result of her commitment to education and social justice. A Houston native and Cavanaugh Hall resident, Geary is active in the 91�Թ� and South Bend communities. Geary has served as a teaching intern through the , a math and literary tutor through , the public relations director for the and a seminar leader for the . She will also serve as a resident assistant in Cavanaugh Hall her senior year. She received an undergraduate research fellowship through the where she was paired with a visiting researcher to collect and analyze data related to the Rwandan genocide. Currently, Geary is interning through the to analyze information related to educational delivery mechanisms. Off campus, Geary serves as a program analyst in the Robinson Community Learning Center’s and a literacy coach through the .

McKenzie, a junior majoring in mechanical engineering and minoring in Chinese from Wilmington, Delaware, also received a Lou Holtz Leadership Scholarship for actively engaging in 91�Թ�’s residential mission while participating in the program. There, he organized student activities and residence hall programs, including a weekly sport session at a local park where 91�Թ� students interacted with residents. On campus, McKenzie lives in Keough Hall, where he will serve as a resident assistant his senior year, and is a member of , which designs prostheses and assistive technologies for limb-different individuals free of charge. He is also a , a member of the and the founder and president of , an initiative that raises awareness and funding for childhood cancer.

Petty, a junior from South Bend majoring in pre-professional studies and Spanish, also received a Lou Holtz Leadership Scholarship. A Howard Hall resident and first-year scholar-leader through the , Petty has actively engaged in sharing her experiences and addressing her cultural identity as a 91�Թ� student. In fall 2021, Petty traveled to Puebla, Mexico, as a part of the program. There, she engaged in conversations and research initiatives while also producing podcasts, videos and social media content. On campus, Petty served as the community outreach commissioner for the and will serve as the director for community outreach for Student Government in her senior year. Locally, Petty has served as youth developer for the , a youth coordinator and counselor for , an intern with and as a member of the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access Committee.

Established in 1992 by Student Government, the Hipp-Beeler Scholarship is designed to honor student-athletes Colleen Hipp and Meghan Beeler, who died in a bus accident.

Al Janabi of Martinez, California, was awarded one of two Hipp-Beeler Scholarships for her commitment and contributions to first-generation students at 91�Թ�. A neuroscience and behavior major with a minor in Spanish, Al Janabi serves as an adviser and member of the 91�Թ� Matriculate leadership team, which empowers high-achieving, low-income high school students to apply for admission. Additionally, as a scholar in the , she serves as an organic chemistry tutor and as the organization’s social chair and treasurer, organizing class retreats and annual events. A resident of Breen-Phillips Hall, Al Janabi founded Community Building Community, which is designed to create a safe space for minority and LGBTQ students in residence halls. She also volunteers as a counselor for the and as a Spanish and Arabic translator for the .

Carbonel was awarded the second Hipp-Beeler Scholarship, also for his contributions to engaging first-generation students at 91�Թ�. A science and pre-professional studies major from Dededo, Guam, Carbonel serves as the president of , leading the club to organize events that foster a welcoming community for first-generation and minority students. He also serves as a peer mentor to first-year students through the within . Additionally, Carbonel is a in the who serves as a residence hall ambassador in Keough Hall to help raise awareness for programs and events available through the office.

, honoring a graduating senior who has made substantial personal efforts to advance the interests of students at 91�Թ�, was given to Allan Njomo of Arlington, Texas.

A business analytics major, Njomo served as student body president this year, and previously was the president of Stanford Hall where he advocated for marginalized individuals in residential communities. He was an active participant in the within (MSPS), where he actively advocated on behalf of first-generation, low-income students, and served as a 91�Թ� Young Life facilitator, guiding high school students in personal growth and daily skills. Most recently, Njomo served as a strong advocate for the observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a University holiday.

�ճ������was awarded to Mary Mueller from Lake Elmo, Minnesota. This award is given to a graduating senior who embodies Father Moreau’s vision of educating heart and mind as well as someone who has demonstrated significant effort in advancing the Catholic character of the University.

Mueller, a theology major with minors in studio arts, philosophy and Catholic social tradition, has been extensively involved in advancing the Catholic charism at 91�Թ�, particularly through leadership roles in and the . She served as a leader, a co-leader and the director of spirituality for . She was also a member of Organizations, and assisted with the for students entering the Catholic Church.

��annually honors a graduating senior whose leadership has significantly advanced the climate of welcome and inclusion within or beyond the University community. This year’s recipient is Max Siegel from Fishers, Indiana.

A psychology and global affairs major, Siegel served as president of the , president of the Zeta Alpha chapter of the fraternity and a representative for athletics on the . In 2020, Siegel presented to the Undergraduate Experience and Student Life Committee of the where he addressed the student experience related to the coronavirus pandemic and discussed microaggression training through MSPS. He also spoke at the .

�ճ����, given to a graduating senior who exemplifies the ideals of the University through outstanding community service beyond the University community, was awarded to Greg Miller from Chandler, Arizona.

An applied and computational mathematics and statistics and honors economics major and constitutional studies and minor, Miller has made significant contributions to the South Bend community in his time at 91�Թ�. Engaging in local activism and housing advocacy efforts, Miller co-founded the South Bend Tenant Association, served as the president of the and was appointed by the city of South Bend to serve on the Housing Affordability and the Landlord and Tenant Education task forces. In addition, he served as co-president of and was named a for his work in public service.

Thomas Deslongchamps from Milwaukee was awarded the��, given to a graduating senior who exemplifies the qualities for which former 91�Թ� Trustee Ray Siegfried was known, including leadership, generosity, devotion to the Catholic faith and affinity for athletics.

A liberal studies major and business-economics and Italian minor, Deslongchamps was a goalkeeper on the men’s soccer team and was accepted to the in the . He also served as a co-leader in the University’s Communion and Liberation club, visiting local nursing homes, hosting weekly discussions about religious texts and fostering community and friendship.

Madeline Ward from St. Johns, Florida, was awarded the��, honoring an outstanding undergraduate student who exemplifies the qualities for which Russo was known, including service, personal character and striving to bring the best out of themselves and others.

A political science and applied and computational mathematics and statistics major, Ward served as a resident assistant in Howard Hall and a ambassador. She also served as a co-chair of the task force and as a core team member for the within the Center for Social Concerns. She volunteered as a teaching assistant at in South Bend, and, as part of the Student Policy Network, Ward served as a lead on the Indiana Driving Privilege Card Project, advocating for legislation to provide driving privilege cards to undocumented Indiana residents.

�ճ������was awarded to Genevieve Redsten from Madison, Wisconsin. This award is given to a graduating senior who exemplifies the qualities of Moore, a former 91�Թ� associate vice president, who was known for his integrity, character, commitment to 91�Թ� and writing ability.

An English major, Redsten served as editor-in-chief of magazine, directing in-depth coverage on a variety of topics, including the University’s 50th anniversary of the admission of undergraduate women, the character of the 91�Թ� Law School and the University’s relationship to its neighbors in the South Bend community. A dedicated journalist, she earned internships at , the and the . Following graduation, Redsten will intern with The .

, honoring a graduating senior who has made substantial personal efforts to advance the interests of students at 91�Թ�, was given to Rachel Ingal of Loveland, Ohio.

A political science major with a minor in business economics and international development, Ingal served as student body president this year, and previously as the director of the program and as vice president of Badin Hall. She is a and a member of .

��annually honors a graduating senior whose leadership has significantly advanced the climate of welcome and inclusion within or beyond the University community. This year’s recipient is Odalis Gonzalez Reyes from American Falls, Idaho.

A psychology and Latino studies major with a minor in education, schooling and society, Gonzalez served the as a program assistant for , was the president of the and served on the leadership board of Show Some Skin. She was also a senior cohort leader for the , led retreats for LatinX first-year students within the and dedicated time to tutoring and mentoring high school students in her time at 91�Թ�.

�ճ����, given to a graduating senior who exemplifies the ideals of the University through outstanding community service beyond the University community, was awarded to Molly Link from Brush, Colorado.

A theology major with a minor in Catholic social tradition, Link has used her dedication to the Catholic faith to serve her fellow students and the local community in her time at 91�Թ�. On campus, Link founded the BeLoved Women’s Discernment Community and serves as both a Resident Assistant in Lewis Hall and as a Campus Ministry . Link is also an active leader in the . She regularly serves the South Bend community as a catechist in a local parish and a volunteer with the .

�ճ������was awarded to Aaron Benavides from Corpus Christi, Texas. This award is given to a graduating senior who embodies Blessed Father Moreau’s vision of educating the heart and has demonstrated significant effort in advancing the Catholic character of the University.

Benavides, a political science major with minors in digital marketing, journalism and theology, served as the chief of staff his senior year, and in multiple student government positions prior, including the director of the Department of Faith and Service. He was appointed by University President Rev. John I. Jenkins, C.S.C., as the student representative with the Campus Engagement Task Force on clergy abuse, and served as a Basilica sacristan and Mass chair for the 2020 .

Conal Fagan from Derry, Northern Ireland, was awarded the��, given to a graduating senior who exemplifies the qualities for which former 91�Թ� Trustee Ray Siegfried was known, including leadership, generosity, devotion to the Catholic faith and affinity for athletics.��

A political science and peace studies major, Fagan served as the first Irish-born , a varsity cheerleader and a sports broadcaster for . He has been an active leader within the Center for Social Concerns, served as a co-chair for the and dedicated his time beyond 91�Թ� to coaching and mentoring students with disabilities.��

Sarah Galbenski from Grosse Pointe Shores, Michigan, was awarded the��, honoring an outstanding undergraduate student who exemplifies the qualities for which Russo was known, including service, personal character and striving to bring the best out of themselves and others.

An honors Spanish and global affairs major with a concentration in international peace studies, Galbenski served as student body vice president her senior year and in multiple leadership roles within her Walsh Hall community. She served the��local South Bend community as well as communities abroad in Ecuador and Chile as a Spanish interpreter, bilingual tutor and English language instructor. Galbenski is a Kellogg International Scholar and member of the .

�ճ������was awarded to Dessi Gomez, from San Clemente, California. This award is given to a graduating senior who exemplifies the qualities of Moore, a former 91�Թ� associate vice president, who was known for his integrity, character, commitment to 91�Թ� and writing ability.

An American studies major with minors in journalism, ethics, democracy and gender studies, Gomez served as a writer and editor with newspaper and magazine, contributing to coverage of breaking news while also reporting on arts, culture and entertainment in the 91�Թ� community. As a student journalist, Gomez traveled to Puerto Rico in 2019 to report on the island’s recovery following Hurricane Maria. She has also held two professional journalism internships, including one at the .

After reviewing nominations from across campus, a selection committee composed of representatives from within and outside the division awarded the Lou Holtz Leadership Scholarship to Allan Njomo and Sara Ferraro and the Hipp-Beeler��Scholarship to Jennifer Moreno-Mendoza, Erica Browne and Samuel De La Paz.

The criteria for each scholarship is demonstrated leadership in residence hall programs, spiritual activities, community service, student government, student activities, entrepreneurial projects, interhall sports or any combination of these or other activities in the area of student life.

Established by Mike Harper in 1995, the Lou Holtz Leadership Scholarship encourages recipients to develop leadership qualities similar to those of former 91�Թ� football coach Lou Holtz. A junior business analytics major, Njomo earned a Lou Holtz Leadership Scholarship as the result of his commitment to inclusion and social change within the 91�Թ� community.��

A Stanford Hall resident and newly elected student body president, Njomo was born in Kenya and relocated to the United States when he was 9 years old. Most recently, Njomo served as the president of Stanford Hall where he supported fellow residents throughout the pandemic and created a safe space for dialogue surrounding racial injustice that spearheaded a microaggression training program in partnership with . Additionally, Njomo has actively advocated on behalf of first-generation, low-income students and worked to strengthen greater participation in the violence prevention program.��

Ferraro, a junior from West Nyack, New York, majoring in the with a minor in data science, also received a Lou Holtz Leadership Scholarship. A Lyons Hall resident, Ferraro has been actively engaged with the since her freshman year, completing a Summer Service Learning Program at where she offered support and tangible resources to women facing homelessness. Ferraro continues to advocate for empowerment in social work and has since participated in two fall seminar programs and two Virtual Service Corps programs. Ferraro has held a wide range of on-campus leadership positions, and as co-president of ND Jump Rope, she teaches youth after-school programs in South Bend. Ferraro also serves on the PLS Student Advisory Committee and the Lyons Hall Diversity and Inclusion Committee, and founded a University chapter of , which focuses on human rights education and legal empowerment.��

Established in 1992 by 91�Թ� Student Government, the Hipp-Beeler Scholarship is designed to honor student-athletes Colleen Hipp and Meghan Beeler, who died in a bus accident. Moreno-Mendoza was awarded one of three Hipp-Beeler Scholarships for her commitment to and support of current and future students.�� ��

A marketing major with minors in Latino studies and theology, Moreno-Mendoza serves as a board member for the program within the Office of Student Enrichment and as an for the Office of Campus Ministry, where she helps coordinate the efforts of multicultural ministry. She is also the co-head advising fellow of the Matriculate chapter at 91�Թ�, a program that guides and supports limited-resourced, high-achieving students in all aspects of the college application process. Additionally, Moreno-Mendoza co-founded the My College Journey Academy in her hometown of Irving, Texas, which helps local high school students prepare for college.

Browne was awarded the second Hipp-Beeler Scholarship for her excellence in student leadership. Originally from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Browne is a member of the within the Center for Social Concerns. In this role, she works to improve seminar leadership training and student preparation prior to seminar immersion. She also served as a co-leader for the center’s , leading a dialogue on achieving racial justice in the 91�Թ� and South Bend communities. Additionally, Browne served as a co-facilitator for Campus Ministry’s annual for Black first-year students at 91�Թ�.��

De La Paz, a mechanical engineering major with a minor in energy studies, received the third Hipp-Beeler Scholarship. At 91�Թ�, De La Paz was accepted into the within the Center for Social Concerns where he advocated on behalf of bipartisan clean energy legislation in Indiana. In addition, he serves as a team leader with , is a member of and retreat leader for the and serves as the liturgical commissioner for Siegfried Hall.

The new program, called , offers students an additional resource for campus health, with medical care, mental health counseling and health coaching programs specifically designed for college students. The program gives students 24/7 access to free medical and/or one-time mental health counseling visits from licensed physicians and counselors, anytime and from anywhere in the United States.

“Fighting Irish Care is another addition to our growing list of student support services and a natural extension of the telehealth services currently offered by University Health Services and the University Counseling Center,” said Christine Caron Gebhardt, assistant vice president for health and wellness. “I’m thrilled students now have immediate access to health care and mental health support regardless of their needs or physical location to campus.”��

For students, seeking care is as easy as making a video call. From an app on their phone or other device, students can see the profiles, faces and basic details of a diverse range of medical providers or mental health counselors available to them. They can choose to meet with a specific provider or select the first available. Typically, students have a video consultation with someone within 5-10 minutes.

TimelyMD enhances campus resources by helping to limit the spread of illness, remove the stigma of mental health counseling and grant peace of mind to students and their families. While 75 percent of college students in a said their mental health has worsened since the pandemic began, fewer than 30 percent have tried teletherapy as a coping strategy. Fighting Irish Care is one more strategy 91�Թ� offers to break down barriers and increase access for students in need.

“Virtual access to medical and mental health counseling has never been more important, especially for college students who may be learning remotely, need care after hours and prefer to do so privately on their own devices,” said Luke Hejl, chief executive officer of TimelyMD. “Continuing classes on campus means anticipating and addressing the concerns, needs and demands of students and their families.”

, honoring a graduating senior who has made substantial personal efforts to advance the interests of students at 91�Թ�, was given to Eric Kim of Buena Park, California.

A marketing and film, television and theater major, Kim served as executive director of the and the chair of . In these roles, Kim fostered an environment of respect and inclusion, which positively impacted his peers and the 91�Թ� community.

��annually honors a graduating senior whose leadership has significantly advanced the climate of welcome and inclusion within or beyond the University community. This year’s recipient is Christian Abraham Arega from Alexandria, Virginia.

A biochemistry major with minors in anthropology and compassionate care in medicine, Abraham Arega has committed significant time and energy to advancing the climate of inclusion at 91�Թ�. She was the vice president for the , served on the advisory board for the , was a peer mentor with the and served as a focus group leader for the Inclusive Campus Student Survey. Abraham Arega also served her community as a resident assistant in Howard Hall and as a small group leader.

�ճ����, given to a graduating senior who exemplifies the ideals of the University through outstanding community service beyond the University community, was awarded to Tim Jacklich from Glen Ellyn, Illinois.

A political science major, Jacklich has given much of his time at 91�Թ� volunteering with Latino and immigrant populations both locally and nationally. In addition to his work serving Spanish-speaking youth and families, Jacklich served as co-president of the and on the vice president for student affairs’ .

�ճ������was awarded to Carolina Robledo from Kirby, Texas. This award is given to a graduating senior who embodies Blessed Father Moreau’s vision of educating heart and mind as well as someone who has demonstrated significant effort in advancing the Catholic character of the University.

As a music major and history and education, schooling and society minor, Robledo has furthered 91�Թ�'s Catholic, Holy Cross character through extensive service in Campus Ministry. She served on various retreat teams and sang in and the . She also assisted in planning Misa en Español and the annual Our Lady of Guadalupe Mass, and presented in residence halls about Las Posadas during Advent. In addition, Robledo coordinated the virtual Spanish Rosary during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Madeline Coady from Haverhill, Massachusetts, was awarded the��, given to a graduating senior who exemplifies the qualities for which former 91�Թ� Trustee Ray Siegfried was known, including leadership, generosity, devotion to the Catholic faith and affinity for athletics.

An accountancy major and Catholic social tradition minor, Coady served as a resident assistant in McGlinn Hall and participated on the team. Coady also co-founded the and served as a student assistant for .

Laksumi Sivanandan from Flushing, New York, was awarded the��, honoring an outstanding undergraduate student who exemplifies the qualities for which Russo was known, including service, personal character and striving to bring the best out of themselves and others.

A political science and American studies major, Sivanandan served as vice president of the 91�Թ� , where she fostered unity within the senior class. She was one of five student leaders representing 91�Թ� at the ACC Student Leadership Symposium and, throughout her four years at 91�Թ�, continually dedicated herself to helping her fellow students.

�ճ������was awarded to David Korzeniowski, from Framingham, Massachusetts. This award is given to a graduating senior who exemplifies the qualities of Moore, a former 91�Թ� associate vice president, who was known for his integrity, character, commitment to 91�Թ� and writing ability.

A film, television and theater major, Korzeniowski served as managing editor of . He was active as a student broadcaster providing on-air commentary for nearly a dozen Fighting Irish sports teams, including basketball, soccer and track and field. Korzeniowski received the All-American collegiate broadcasting honors from the Sportscasters Talent Agency of America.

In this role, Caron Gebhardt will oversee the student service departments that support student health and well-being at 91�Թ�, including the nationally accredited , the nationally accredited , the and the new Center for Student Support and Care, which includes the Care and Wellness program and the . She will also serve as the division’s senior contact for student crisis, withdrawal and readmission, both for individual cases and the overall design of 91�Թ�’s student response and intervention protocols.

“Christine is deeply committed to the holistic formation of our students, and she has successfully launched major new efforts in violence prevention and inclusion in her time at 91�Թ�,” said , vice president for student affairs. “I am delighted that she will lead the development of an expanded vision for nurturing student health and well-being with her team, campus colleagues and students.”��

Caron Gebhardt earned her doctoral degree in theological ethics with a focus on biomedical ethics from Vanderbilt University, where she also earned a master’s degree in theological studies. She received her bachelor’s degree in multidisciplinary studies and the pre-medical program from the College of Holy Cross. She began her career at 91�Թ� in 2012.

In her seven years as director of the Gender Relations Center, Caron Gebhardt has worked collaboratively with various offices within the Division of Student Affairs and the wider University to address topics related to healthy relationships, diversity and inclusion, and violence prevention. Concurrently, she serves as co-chair for both the and the . She is also a Title IX resource coordinator and an instructor for the .

Prior to 91�Թ�, Caron Gebhardt worked for 16 years as the director of education and formation at Christ the King Church and the principal of Christ the King Grade School in Nashville, Tennessee. As a faculty member at Vanderbilt University, Seattle University and other institutions across the south, she��has more than 11 years of experience teaching courses on theological and philosophical ethics, biomedical ethics, human sexuality, gender and Catholic Social Justice.

Caron Gebhardt lives in South Bend with her husband, Carl, and two children, Jacob and Rachael.

, honoring a graduating senior who has made substantial personal efforts to advance the interests of students at 91�Թ�, was given to Bethany Boggess of South Bend, Indiana.

As a marketing major, Boggess has served as the executive director of the , welcomed visitors to campus as a tour guide and served in leadership roles for . Since her sophomore year, Boggess has served on the Orientation Steering Committee to help plan an inclusive Welcome Weekend and ensure a positive transition to life at 91�Թ� for all students. She also served as a student facilitator for a focus group on political views as a part of the .

��annually honors a graduating senior whose leadership has significantly advanced the climate of welcome and inclusion within or beyond the University community. This year’s recipient is Deborah Bineza from La Vergne, Tennessee.

A political science major and international development studies minor, Bineza has committed significant time and energy to improving the climate of welcome and inclusion on campus. She has served the since her sophomore year and held leadership roles in and . She also led a focus group for the Inclusive Campus Student Survey.

�ճ����, given to a graduating senior who exemplifies the ideals of the University through outstanding community service beyond the University community, was awarded to Annelise Gill-Wiehl from Naples, Florida.

An environmental engineering major and international development studies minor, Gill-Wiehl is a who has used her innate compassion and the skills learned while at 91�Թ� to effect change in rural Tanzania. She piloted a successful program to replace household stoves that emit hazardous pollution and are a leading cause of lung cancer in East Africa. She also learned Swahili, gained the trust of families and worked to lead a village toward cultural change.

�ճ������was awarded to Joe Crowley from Lansing, Michigan. This award is given to a graduating senior who embodies Blessed Father Moreau’s vision of educating heart and mind as well as someone who has demonstrated significant effort in advancing the Catholic character of the University.

An English and political science double major, Crowley has been extensively involved in advancing the Catholic character on campus, particularly through his leadership in music ministry and . He serves the Zahm Hall community as director of choir for Sunday Mass, trains fellow music ministers in residence halls across campus and has been essential in some of the largest hall liturgies of the year. Crowley is a senior anchor intern for Liturgy with Campus Ministry, is a member of the and , and was a student facilitator for the Inclusive Campus Student Survey focus groups.

Shannon Hendricks from Granger, Indiana, was awarded the��, presented to a graduating senior who exemplifies the qualities for which former 91�Թ� Trustee Ray Siegfried was known, including leadership, generosity, devotion to the Catholic faith and affinity for athletics. A business analytics major and Catholic social tradition minor, Hendricks is a starter on the varsity team and has won several awards for positively impacting the soccer team environment on and off the field. Her zeal and passion have also propelled her to be an advocate and ally for adults with disabilities. She established a collaboration between 91�Թ� women’s soccer and the soccer teams and, through research grants, has analyzed international organizations to determine the best way to care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Alyssa Ngo from Marion, Indiana, was awarded the��, honoring an outstanding undergraduate student who exemplifies the qualities for which Mike Russo was known, including service, personal character and striving to bring the best out of themselves and others.

A program of liberal studies and English major, and education, schooling and society minor, Ngo serves as executive chair of the Diversity Council and previously served as president of the . She was an undergraduate panelist in the 2019 luncheon and is a valued member of the . She has also served in various settings as a thoughtful, vocal representative for marginalized student populations, and worked as a student facilitator for the Inclusive Campus Student Survey focus groups.

�ճ������was presented to Juan Jose Rodriguez, originally from Nashville, Tennessee. This award is given to a graduating senior who exemplifies the qualities of Moore, a former 91�Թ� associate vice president who was known for his integrity, character, commitment to 91�Թ� and writing ability.

Rodriguez, a business analytics and film, television and theater major with a minor in journalism, served as editor-in-chief of in 2018-19, directing in-depth coverage of topics of major interest to the 91�Թ� community, including career opportunities, the pros and cons of living on campus and the #MeToo movement. He was also one of the driving forces in developing a new era of cooperation between the various student media groups that now, for the first time, occupy the same space in .

, honoring a graduating senior who has made substantial personal efforts to advance the interests of students at 91�Թ�, was given to Xiao “Flora” Tang of Beijing, China.

As a political science and theology major with a minor in peace studies, Tang has served as a senior anchor intern in the where she co-led the RCIA program, guiding students on a year-long faith journey toward becoming fully initiated into the Catholic Church. Also in Campus Ministry, Tang founded the first fellowship group to support the faith needs of Chinese Catholic students and faculty at 91�Թ�. In addition, Tang served on the Orientation Steering Committee and as an international ambassador for .

��annually honors a graduating senior whose leadership has significantly advanced the climate of welcome and inclusion within or beyond the University community. This year’s recipient is Gregory Jenn from San Diego, California.

A Latino studies, romance languages and political science major, Jenn is committed to improving the climate of inclusion on campus, especially for Latino/a students and undocumented students. In his time at 91�Թ�, Jenn has served as the president of the , as president of Ballet Folklorico and as the student director of the mentorship program.��

�ճ����, given to a graduating senior who exemplifies the ideals of the University through outstanding community service beyond the University community, was awarded to Majak Anyieth from Bor, South Sudan.

A science pre-professional and education major, Anyieth holds a deep commitment to promoting peace through education in his home country of South Sudan. Before coming to 91�Թ�, Anyieth attended the in South Africa. In his time at 91�Թ�, he founded the nonprofit organization with the purpose of building schools in South Sudan and educating children in the hopes of becoming leaders and proponents of peace. Last spring, the organization opened its first school and welcomed more than 200 students.

�ճ������was awarded to Liam Maher from South Bend, Indiana. This award is given to a graduating senior who embodies Blessed Father Moreau’s vision of educating heart and mind as well as someone who has demonstrated significant effort in advancing the Catholic character of the University.

An art history and political science major, Maher has been extensively involved in advancing the Catholic character on campus, particularly through leadership roles in Campus Ministry and the . He serves as the president of the 91�Թ� Folk Choir and as the spirituality committee chair for the PrismND LGBTQ Alliance, and is a member of the .

Christopher Dethlefs from La Vista, Nebraska, was awarded the��, presented to a graduating senior who exemplifies the qualities for which former 91�Թ� Trustee Ray Siegfried was known, including leadership, generosity, devotion to the Catholic faith and affinity for athletics.

Dethlefs is a four-year member of the club, serving for two years as captain and personally raising more than $17,000 through Bengal Bouts. A resident assistant in Sorin Hall, he has also been the dorm service commissioner for two years and was a participant in the International Summer Service Learning Program through the .

Maxwell Ujdak from South Bend was awarded the��, honoring an outstanding undergraduate student who exemplifies the qualities for which Russo was known, including service, personal character and striving to bring the best out of themselves and others.

Ujdak, a marketing and visual communications design double major, blazed a new path within the as the first student band manager to become a member of the Irish Guard. A resident of Zahm Hall, Ujdak was also one of two designers on the 2016 Committee, which sold more than 150,000 units.

�ճ������was presented to Selena Ponio, originally from Manila, Phillippines. This award is given to a graduating senior who exemplifies the qualities of Moore, a former 91�Թ� associate vice president, who was known for his integrity, character, commitment to 91�Թ� and writing ability.

Ponio, an international economics major with a minor in the , has worked as a writer and editor for and interned at the and CBS’ “.” Topics of her stories included the reaction of friends in her hometown of Dallas to the horrors of the 2016 shooting of police officers in that city, and memories of her own American citizenship ceremony.

“The Duncan Student Center is the physical embodiment of the integration we hope our students will explore as they pursue their interests, cultivate their well-being and discern their futures,” said , vice president for student affairs. “I cannot wait to see how our students will bring this facility to life and use its spaces to further enrich and enliven our campus community.”

To commemorate the opening, a communitywide daylong celebration will be held from��9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Jan. 15 with an official ribbon cutting ceremony at��11:30 a.m.��in front of the first-floor fireplace. Food samples from the facility’s three micro-restaurants will be served from��noon to 2 p.m.��Staff operating in the new building will also be available throughout the day to offer guided tours of their spaces on floors 2, 3, 4 and 5.����

The first floor inside the new student center will house flexible, state-of-the-art meeting rooms, innovation space, lounges, dining areas and offices. Spaces include the Jan and Marty Hiller Midfield Commons, a comfortable setting conducive to studying or socializing;the Hagerty Family Café, serving Intelligentsia coffee and desserts; and two additional dining options, Modern Market, a farm to fork concept, and Star Ginger Asian Grill and Noodle Bar, a Vietnamese micro-restaurant.��

The Thomas and Therese Grojean Family Loft will occupy the second floor to provide a setting for students to come together over food, schoolwork and relaxation. The loft also houses a large portion of the student media suite, which will offer a media laboratory atmosphere with newsrooms and radio studios visible through clear glass and an open television studio. Student media operations for NDTV, The Voice of the Fighting Irish (WVFI) internet radio, WSND-FM, Dome yearbook, Scholastic magazine and The Juggler will all relocate to the space.

Also on the second floor, graduate students will have dedicated graduate student-only study and lounge space in close proximity to the new home of Graduate Student Life and the Graduate Student Union. The Office of Residential Life will also relocate on the southern portion of the second floor to provide easier access to services such as housing, rector support, RA development, summer housing and off-campus student support.

Commissioned artwork designed to celebrate the diversity that exists among 91�Թ� students, faculty and staff will also be installed on the first two floors in the spring of 2018.

The Smith Center for Recreational Sports facility on the third and fourth floors will offer triple the amount of fitness space currently available in Rolfs Sports Recreation Center and will complement existing space in the Rockne Memorial and the new recreational courts in the North Dome of the Joyce Center. A three-story climbing wall, which will span the second, third and fourth floors, will be surrounded by a 1/6-mile suspended indoor track with an adjacent basketball court. These features, in addition to a variety of new equipment, will allow RecSports to broaden its fitness programming.

The fifth floor features an expanded Center for Career Development, with more than 40 interview rooms and meeting space to benefit students. Many of the rooms will be available for students to use in the evening for studying and student organization meetings. The center will also centrally locate Undergraduate Career Services, Graduate Career Services, Mendoza Graduate Business Career Services, and an employer engagement team to engage with alumni and recruiters.

The seventh floor holds the beautiful and flexible Dahnke Ballroom, a 500-seat facility that can be sub-divided to host smaller events.

Floors eight and nine have premium and club seating for football games as well as space for visiting coaches and athletic department officials. The Rasmus Family Club opened in fall 2017 to enhance the football game day experience and offers a stunning environment for pregame festivities.

Planning for the Duncan Student Center has ensured the facility will complement the student organization space and administrative offices located in the LaFortune Student Center. Duncan will operate in conjunction with LaFortune, which will continue to house departmental, student organization and administrative offices and serve its historic role as a student center in the heart of campus.

91�Թ� alumnus Raymond T. Duncan, his wife, Sally, and their family made a gift for construction of the new building prior to Raymond’s passing in 2015. A 1952 91�Թ� graduate, Duncan was the chairman and chief executive officer of Duncan Oil Inc. in Denver, Colorado, and founded Silver Oak and Twomey Cellars in Napa Valley and Sonoma County, California. In addition, he was the founder of Purgatory Ski Resort near Durango, Colorado. He was also a former member of the College of Arts and Letters Advisory Council and a retired member of the Snite Museum of Art Advisory Council. The Duncans’ support of the University also includes a gift in 2007 to build Duncan Hall, home to more than 230 male students, and the establishment of the Duncan Endowment for Excellence in American Art, which supports Snite Museum acquisitions, exhibitions, publications, education programs and research projects related to American art. The Duncans are also generous supporters of other areas of the University, including the Institute for Scholarship in Liberal Arts, Monogram Club, Department of Athletics and McCormack Scholarship.