2025 Graduating Student Awards

This award recognizes the leadership and vision of founding trustee Lt. General Arthur J. Gregg [U.S. Army (Ret.)]. General Gregg chaired Excelsior’s Board of Overseers and guided the transition to independence as a private institution, becoming the first chair of the Board of Trustees. With a distinguished career in the U.S. Army, General Gregg has contributed greatly to Excelsior’s service to the U.S. military. The award is presented to a graduate who is on active duty in the U.S. military and who demonstrates outstanding academic and career or professional achievement.
 

Click to see additional details about the nomination process for the Arthur J. Gregg Award

John Peter Yauchzee

John Peter Yauchzee, of Williamsburg, Virginia, completed a Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering Technology in February 2025 with a 4.0 GPA. He is a nuclear electrician’s mate, maintenance support center supervisor, and command equipment configuration manager aboard the USS John C. Stennis with the U.S. Navy.

Yauchzee’s expertise spans project management, electrical theory, quality assurance, and nuclear engineering. With a deep understanding of high-energy systems, technical drawings, and equipment validation, he brings a rare blend of operational experience and analytical knowledge to every challenge. As a proven leader, he has led a 23-person maintenance team through complex shipyard operations, overseeing the successful restoration and testing of mission-critical systems. He managed more than 217,000 equipment records, ensuring 100% compliance through rigorous audits and cross-divisional coordination, as well as maintained and operated critical reactor support systems.

He has earned multiple commendations, including Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals for his leadership in correcting system configuration issues and training department-wide personnel on best practices.

Yauchzee is currently pursuing a master’s degree in engineering.

This award is given in memory of Catherine Craig-Erhardt, a member of Excelsior staff beginning in 1980. From 1984 until her untimely death in 1986, she served as Excelsior’s liaison to the military. The award recognizes and commemorates her commitment to helping military servicemembers attain their educational goals and is presented for service to others, commitment to education, and for academic, professional, and personal achievement.

This award is presented to nominees of the current year’s Excelsior University graduating class. Active duty service members, National Guard members, or Reservists are eligible. Veterans who were on active duty during most of the period of enrollment in Excelsior University are eligible.
 

Click to see additional details about the nomination process for the Catherine Craig-Erhardt Memorial Award

Danielle N. Genereux

Danielle N. Genereux, of Brooklyn, Connecticut, completed a Master of Science in Nursing Education in February 2025 with a 4.0 GPA. She is a labor and delivery nurse at Day Kimball Hospital as well as a senior medical noncommissioned officer with the Connecticut Army National Guard. She also recently accepted a position as a clinical nurse educator with the University of Connecticut.

Genereux is a highly skilled and compassionate health care professional with nearly two decades of military and civilian medical experience, where she has provided expert maternal and neonatal care and demonstrated proficiency in fetal monitoring, neonatal resuscitation, and surgical assistance during deliveries.

In the Connecticut Army National Guard, Genereux has led combat medical teams in Afghanistan and Syria, served as a flight paramedic, and played a key role in establishing an aeromedical evacuation unit. As the first sergeant of the 142nd Area Support Medical Company, she oversees the medical readiness and training of more than 100 soldiers. Her civilian experience includes serving as a paramedic in a busy urban setting and as a member of the Pediatric Critical Care Transport team for Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital. She also supported injured veterans as a veteran support specialist with Homes for Our Troops, blending compassion with logistical and advocacy skills.

In addition to her master’s, Genereux earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in June 2024 and an Associate in Science in Nursing in April 2022, both with Excelsior, and has certifications in advanced cardiovascular life support, pediatric advanced life support, the neonatal resuscitation program, and critical care flight paramedicine.

The Charles W. Laffin Jr. Memorial Award honors Charles W. Laffin for his leadership in advancing the Community College movement and creating opportunities for millions of adult learners. Presented by Excelsior University in gratitude for his service, the award recognizes academic excellence and achievement. Eligibility requires earning credit from a Community College prior to attending Excelsior University and obtaining a master’s degree from Excelsior (non-Nursing).
 

Requirements:

• Eligible graduates must have earned their master’s in a non-nursing program;
• GPA of 3.5 or higher;
• Must have earned some previous Community College credit.

Krista Doherty

Krista Doherty, of Binghamton, New York, completed a Master of Science in Management in July 2024 with a 4.0 GPA. She is a senior staff assistant at SUNY Broome Community College.

A first-generation college graduate, Doherty possesses a strong commitment to student success and academic excellence. Doherty has worked at both SUNY Broome and Excelsior University (then College), developing expertise in student information systems and cross-functional collaboration. She plays a key role in the areas of academic records, course management, and student support services, while also supervising support staff and overseeing essential processes like transcript issuance, registration, and transfer evaluations.

Doherty is passionate about serving adult learners and committed to equity in education. She actively contributes to campus life through events like SPARK (a career exploration expo for local eighth graders), student conduct boards, and commencement ceremonies. Her leadership, academic excellence, and student-centered focus make her a strong advocate for student achievement and institutional success.

In addition to her master’s degree, Doherty earned a Bachelor of Science in Business from Excelsior University (then College) in 2020, an Associate of Science in Business Administration from SUNY Broome Community College in 2019, and an Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice from Hudson Valley Community College in 2012.

This award honors Excelsior University alumnus Dwayn Hanford, a former president of the Alumni Association and Leadership Council, C. Wayne Williams Award recipient, and adjunct instructor. A dedicated advocate for Excelsior’s mission to educate public sector leaders, the award recognizes a graduate of a public service degree program who demonstrates academic excellence and community impact.
 
Requirements:

• Eligible graduates must have earned their undergraduate degree in a public service program;
• GPA of 3.5 or higher;
• Significant community involvement.

Sherilyn Perez

Sherilyn Perez, of the Bronx, New York, earned her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice in September 2024, with a 3.85 GPA. She is an assistant program director at Directions for Our Youth in the Bronx.

Perez has more than 18 years of experience supporting youth development through community-based organizations in communities impacted by poverty and crime. She has played a pivotal role in creating safe, engaging environments for at-risk youth. She takes pride in being a role model, demonstrating that perseverance and purpose can help overcome any challenge. With a strong foundation in leadership, teamwork, and emotional intelligence, she continues to be a driving force for positive change in her community.

Throughout her tenure, she has been a passionate mentor, team leader, and advocate for educational and recreational programming that empowers young people to thrive. Her work spans from direct supervision and instruction to administrative leadership, including staff development, activity coordination, and parent engagement.

This award was created in recognition of Dr. Long’s service and contribution to Excelsior University. He was regarded as an expert in nuclear education and a proponent of the link between training and education and the safe operation of nuclear facilities. Students selected for this award must be a BS in Nuclear Engineering Technology graduate with a GPA of 3.5 or higher who works in the nuclear industry and is a member of the American Nuclear society.

 
Alexander C. Corey

Alexander C. Corey, of Suffolk, Virginia, completed a Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering Technology in February 2025 with a 4.0 GPA. He is the chief leading engineering laboratory technician aboard the USS Pasadena with the U.S. Navy.

Corey has more than 12 years of experience in nuclear operations, maintenance, and radiological controls. As a senior enlisted leader and subject matter expert, he has supervised high-risk operations aboard nuclear-powered submarines and at land-based reactor facilities. He has trained more than 200 Navy and civilian personnel in nuclear chemistry and safety protocols, earning recognition for exemplary leadership and technical performance.

He holds certifications in quality assurance and chemical waste management, and he is a master training specialist. He was instrumental in bringing the S8G prototype reactor in West Milton, New York, at the Kesselring site, back to critical operations after a five-year hiatus. He also created an audit and surveillance program that became the future standard for all inspections aboard the USS Kentucky.

Corey was inducted into the Alpha Nu Sigma National Honor Society in 2024. He has completed several naval nuclear courses, including courses in advanced nuclear power and naval nuclear prototype training for mechanical and engineering laboratory technician specialties.

This award recognizes the leadership and vision of founding trustee Jean Smith. Smith’s career in banking has been characterized by a deep commitment to institutions that are devoted to improving society. Her passion for social justice informed her work with Excelsior as both overseer and trustee in support of its students. The award is presented to a graduate who excels academically and professionally in business.
 
Requirements:

• Eligible graduates must have earned their undergraduate degree in a business program;
• GPA of 3.5 or higher;

 
Darryk Ledgerwood

Darryk Ledgerwood, of Wichita, Kansas, earned a Bachelor of Science in Business in September 2024 with a 3.65 GPA. He is a mortgage loan officer at Guild Mortgage—Team Rangel in Wichita.

With a strong background in technical operations, project management, and team leadership, Ledgerwood brings a unique combination of military precision, private-sector experience, and financial expertise to the mortgage lending industry. He spent six years of service in the U.S. Navy as a nuclear reactor operator and network administrator, where he supervised personnel in high-stakes environments, led training programs for more than 400 sailors, and was awarded the Navy Achievement Medal for his contributions during an overseas deployment.

He has also worked as an IT specialist at Colossal Contracting LLC, managing large-scale deployments, compliance initiatives, and client relationships. In the mortgage industry, his experience includes preparing for and managing regulatory audits, analyzing credit and documentation, and working closely with the underwriting department to ensure successful loan closings.

Additionally, Ledgerwood is the founder of a multinational nonprofit eSports organization.

This award honors Joshua L. Smith, founding trustee and former chair of the Excelsior University Board of Trustees, for his leadership in expanding graduate programs. A retired New York University professor and director, Smith dedicated his career to education. The award recognizes a master’s level graduate (non-nursing) who has balanced their academic studies with volunteer service in organizations such as the military, medical agencies, nonprofits, or places of worship.

Requirements:

• Eligible graduates must have earned their master’s degree in a non-nursing program;
• GPA of 3.5 or higher;
• Volunteer experience during completion of degree.

Natasha Burke

Natasha Burke, of Fort Knox, Kentucky, earned a Master of Science in Management ] in September 2024 with a 3.83 GPA. She is the chief human resources sergeant major with the U.S. Army at Fort Knox.

In her current role, Burke oversees personnel operations, mentors senior leaders and junior soldiers, and ensures compliance with Army policies and programs. Her career spans global assignments and progressive leadership roles, including first sergeant in Poland, equal opportunity advisor in South Carolina, and executive administrative assistant in Türkiye. She previously managed human resources operations for hundreds of personnel, leading inspections and compliance reviews as an assistant inspector general, and she developed and executed many complex strategic plans.

Burke successfully navigated graduate studies while enduring the devastating loss of both parents. Despite this personal hardship, she earned a promotion to sergeant major, the highest enlisted rank in the U.S. Army.

She is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., contributing to community service efforts including feeding the hungry, supporting veterans, and honoring fallen soldiers.

In addition to her master’s degree from Excelsior, Burke earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and an Associate of Applied Science from Columbia Southern University.

This annual award recognizes significant achievements of an Excelsior University student who has consistently modeled a core Excelsior University value: respecting the uniqueness of each individual; celebrating and learning from differences; ensuring that all voices are heard, particularly those who have been historically underrepresented; and leading efforts that enhance inclusion, equity and justice in their classroom, their organization or their community. This award is open to all graduates.
 
Cayden James Ehrlich Somes

Cayden James Ehrlich Somes, of Golden Valley, Minnesota, earned a Master of Science in Cybersecurity in February 2025 with a 3.8 GPA. He is a senior detection engineer at Target, where he specializes in writing malware detection and prevention logic across multiple operating systems.

With a strong background in programming, cybersecurity, and threat intelligence, Somes has contributed to the development of custom detection tools and has played a key role in advancing Target’s cybersecurity system through innovative detection methods, including ways to identify remote monitoring and management software.

Somes is a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. As a bisexual transgender man with ADHD, he brings an authentic voice to corporate and community conversations around identity, belonging, and social justice. He is active in Target’s Pride+ Belonging Community and is a mentor in the Trans Mentor Project, where he provides guidance on topics ranging from gender-affirming care to online safety and cybersecurity.

A graduate of Carleton College and a member of the National Honor Society, Somes has participated in multiple educational panels and is consistently ranked among the top competitors in the National Cyber League.

This award honors Marvin Curling’s vision in uniting industry and education by integrating corporate training with college learning. As a New York Power Authority (NYPA) training superintendent, Curling inspired employees to pursue education and helped establish Excelsior’s technology degrees. Endowed by NYPA, this annual award recognizes a graduate with outstanding academic achievement in an Undergraduate technology program.
 
Requirements:

• Eligible graduates must have earned their undergraduate degree in a technology program;
• GPA of 3.5 or higher;

 
Richard Rowe

Richard Rowe, of Charlotte, North Carolina, earned a Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering Technology in October 2024 with a 3.96 GPA. He is the assistant operations manager at Duke Energy’s McGuire Nuclear Station, in Charlotte.

In his current role, Rowe manages department-wide performance metrics, key performance indicators, and high-level improvement initiatives across outage management, work planning, reactivity control, and clearance and tagging operations. He serves as a fleetwide peer team lead, driving collaboration across multiple nuclear sites and fulfilling the roles of operations duty manager on a rotational basis and as the technical support center operations manager.

In previous roles, Rowe served as a shift manager, senior operations specialist, and eSOMS program leader. At FirstEnergy’s Perry Nuclear Power Plant, he advanced from unlicensed operator to licensed reactor operator and operations supervisor, gaining firsthand experience in control room operations, safety leadership, and outage coordination.

Rowe has completed top-tier programs such as the Institute of Nuclear Power Operations’ Next Level Leadership Seminar, the Operations Director Development Seminar, and the Instructor Certification Program, as well as multiple corporate leadership tracks. He is also a certified subject matter expert in operations systems and training.

This award is presented to an Allied Health graduate in memory and recognition of the contributions of Michael J. Cooley, a beloved and dedicated adjunct Allied Health faculty member. The recipient of the award earned an Allied Health degree and embodies exemplary academic achievement and exceptional perseverance. This graduate accepts the challenges that befall an adult learner and embraces the opportunity to grow academically, professionally, and personally within the health sciences discipline.
 
Requirements:

• Eligible graduates must have earned their undergraduate degree in a School of Nursing and Health Sciences program;
• GPA of 3.5 or higher;

 
Brandon J. Gravois

Brandon J. Gravois, of New Orleans, Louisiana, earned a Bachelor of Science in Health Care Management in July 2024 with a 4.0 GPA. He is the clinic coordinator for Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates, or Metro GI, a fast-paced gastroenterology clinic, where he oversees daily operations, patient coordination, and process improvements.

Gravois has more than 18 years of combined experience in clinical operations, military leadership, and health care administration. His professional background includes roles as a lab technician for the 24th Judicial District Specialty Treatment Court, medical assistant and surgical technician at Eyecare Associates, and patient care technician at Ochsner Medical Center.

A sergeant first class in the Louisiana Army National Guard, Gravois has led a 50-soldier infantry platoon through deployments in Iraq, Kuwait, Syria, and Germany. He has also managed logistics, coordinated training, and served in multiple specialty roles, earning honors such as the Army Commendation Medal and the Louisiana War Cross.

Gravois holds certifications in both basic and combat lifesaving, is a certified nursing assistant, and maintains a secret-level security clearance. He is preparing to be commissioned as a medical officer and is pursuing an MBA with Excelsior University.

This award is given in recognition of Dr. Mildred L. Montag’s national leadership in nursing and nursing education and her distinguished contribution to the development of the nursing programs offered by Excelsior University. The graduate selected to receive this award has completed the Excelsior University Master of Science in Nursing program and has demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and excellence in all the nursing courses, including the capstone course.
 
Requirements:

• Eligible graduates must have earned their Master’s Degree In Nursing;
• GPA of 4.0;

 
Nicole Elizabeth Ellis

Nicole Elizabeth Ellis, of Tarpon Springs, Florida, earned a Master of Science in Nursing Leadership and Administration of Health Care Systems from Excelsior University in February 2025 with a 4.0 GPA. She is the assistant nurse manager for the medical-surgical unit at AdventHealth Zephyrhills, in Zephyrhills, Florida.

Ellis is an accomplished nurse leader with more than 15 years of clinical and administrative experience that spans critical care, step-down, and progressive care units, including extensive work as a travel nurse in hospitals nationwide. She currently oversees 50 staff members, manages scheduling, supports staff development, and ensures high standards of patient care.

She was recently elected chair of the Assistant Nurse Manager Committee at AdventHealth Zephyrhills and Dade City. She holds certifications in basic life support, advanced cardiovascular life support, pediatric advanced life support, and board-certified medical-surgical nursing, as well as being an active member of American Nurses Association, American Association of Critical-Care Nurses, and Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses.

In addition to her MS in Nursing Leadership and Health Care Administration from Excelsior University, Ellis holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Saint Joseph’s College, a diploma in nursing from St. Elizabeth School of Nursing, and a technical certificate of practical nursing from Ivy Tech Community College, and she is enrolled in the Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Purdue Global University.

This award honors Dr. Robert E. Kinsinger, founding Trustee and first chair of Excelsior’s Board of Overseers, for his leadership and vision. Dr. Kinsinger, a former vice president at the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, supported the development of Regents College nursing programs, a legacy he continued as a Trustee.
 
Requirements:

• Eligible graduates must have earned their associate, bachelor’s or master’s degree in either a health sciences or a nursing program;
• GPA of 3.5 or higher;

 
Tasha Marie Cole

Tasha Marie Cole, of Marietta, Pennsylvania, earned an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing in April 2025 with a 3.58 GPA. She is a detoxification nurse and nurse manager at White Deer Run of Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

Cole’s clinical expertise spans cardiac care, behavioral health, and medical detox, with advanced skills in crisis intervention, team collaboration, and patient-centered care. She holds current registered nurse and licensed practical nurse licensure and basic life support certification, and she is pursuing advanced cardiac life support certification.

Cole is best known for her commitment to holistic, culturally competent care through her volunteer service at Central Outreach Wellness Center, where she focused on reducing health disparities and promoting health equity among vulnerable and multicultural populations. Her volunteer work exemplifies the application of these principles through community engagement and advocacy for sustainable, patient-centered care.

As a member of the Excelsior University Student Leadership Council, Cole serves as a voice for her peers, helping improve the student experience through active listening and collaboration. In addition to her AAS in Nursing from Excelsior, Cole holds a diploma of practical nursing from Lancaster County Career and Technology Center.

In recognition of Dr. Robert P. Mahoney’s outstanding contributions to liberal arts education at this University and his devotion to serving his community, this award is presented to a liberal arts graduate who completed his/her degree in the face of significant challenges and demonstrated a dedication to community and volunteer service.
 
Requirements:

• Eligible graduates must have earned their undergraduate degree in a liberal arts program;
• GPA of 3.5 or higher;
• Dedication to community or volunteer experience.

 
Andrew W. Hunt

Andrew W. Hunt, of North Bennington, Vermont, earned an Associate in Science in Liberal Arts in February 2025 with a 4.0 GPA. He is a campus safety supervisor at Williams College and an emergency medical technician for Arlington Rescue Squad Inc.

A U.S. Army combat veteran and former detective, Hunt has more than two decades of experience in law enforcement, emergency response, and veteran advocacy. His extensive law enforcement background includes decorated service in Vermont and Alaska, where he received awards such as a gallantry star, a meritorious service award, and recognition from the NYPD Detectives’ Endowment Association. He also served in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom and was twice named Enlisted Man of the Year at the company and battalion level. His military awards include two Army Achievement Medals, a Combat Action Badge, an Army Commendation Medal, and the Vermont Commendation Medal.

While pursuing his AS, Hunt led volunteer efforts through the chapter of The Fallen Outdoors he founded. The national nonprofit focuses on veteran mental health. Under his leadership and in his chapter, more than 2,000 veterans participated in therapeutic outdoor experiences.

Hunt has also been inducted into the SALUTE Veterans National Honor Society.

This award is given in memory and recognition of the distinguished contributions of Ruth V. Matheney to nursing and nursing education, her nationally acclaimed leadership toward progressive, patient-centered practices in the classroom and at the bedside, and of her wise and willing counsel to the Excelsior University nursing programs. The recipient of this award has completed an undergraduate degree in nursing at Excelsior University and has demonstrated outstanding academic achievement.
 
Requirements:

• Eligible graduates must have earned their undergraduate degree in a nursing program;
• GPA of 3.5 or higher;

Lisa Collins

Lisa Collins, of Sherburne, New York, earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in February 2025 with a 3.75 GPA. She is a substitute nurse for the Morrisville-Eaton School District.

Collins is a dedicated registered nurse with more than 20 years of clinical experience and a strong commitment to lifelong learning and patient care. Currently, she supports students across all grade levels, managing chronic conditions and ensuring compliance with health regulations.

She began her nursing career as a licensed practical nurse, serving patients in hospital respiratory and oncology units before transitioning to long-term care for veterans, eventually retiring from a veterans’ home. Her previous experience includes working as a camp nurse, providing care to underserved youth. She also has experience as a social media marketing specialist.

In addition to her BS in Nursing from Excelsior, Collins earned an Associate in Applied Science in Nursing from Excelsior University (then College) in 2018 and is currently pursuing her Master of Science in Nursing Education with Excelsior.