2026 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

Jason Schinzing
Jason Schinzing exemplifies the leadership, service, and professional excellence honored by the Arthur J. Gregg Memorial Award. A master sergeant in the United States Army with more than 23 years of distinguished service, Schinzing earned his Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management from Excelsior University.. His academic achievement reflects a strong commitment to lifelong learning while continuing to serve on active duty, and has already opened new opportunities, including acceptance into a competitive biomedical training program and an MBA program

Throughout his military career, Schinzing has held critical leadership roles of significant responsibility, including drill sergeant leader, first sergeant, and senior enlisted medical advisor for the 2nd Security Force Assistance Brigade. These positions required exceptional leadership, operational expertise, and a deep commitment to the welfare and development of soldiers. His accomplishments include being named a finalist for Fort Jackson Drill Sergeant of the Year and receiving the prestigious Order of Military Medical Merit, recognizing his sustained contributions to military medicine and leadership excellence.

Beyond his professional duties, Schinzing has demonstrated a strong commitment to service and mentorship. He has contributed hundreds of volunteer hours with the Wounded Warrior Project, mentored students in JROTC programs, and developed a DUI/DWI prevention initiative to protect both soldiers and the broader community. As he prepares for retirement from active duty, he plans to leverage his healthcare management education to continue serving in a new professional capacity. His dedication to leadership, service, and continuous growth reflects the enduring legacy of Lt. Gen. Arthur J. Gregg and the values this award was created to honor.

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

Raul Santiago Sierra
Raul Santiago Sierra exemplifies the service, perseverance, and commitment to education honored by the Catherine Craig-Erhardt Memorial Award. A retired command sergeant major in the United States Army with more than 30 years of distinguished service, Sierra completed his Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and Management at Excelsior University with a 4.0 GPA. Much of his academic journey was completed while on active duty, balancing rigorous coursework with deployments across more than a dozen countries. His dedication to lifelong learning reflects a deep belief in education as a pathway to growth and opportunity for service members.

Sierra’s career is defined by servant leadership and a sustained commitment to helping others succeed. Inspired early in his career by a first sergeant who encouraged him to pursue education, he went on to support more than 200 soldiers in their own academic pursuits. As a senior leader, he played a pivotal role in transforming a struggling battalion by fostering trust, engaging soldiers individually, and improving retention. His leadership earned him one of the military’s highest honors, the Legion of Merit, in recognition of his exceptional contributions.

Following his retirement, Sierra has continued to apply the skills and confidence gained through his Excelsior education by launching his own business. He remains committed to service, mentorship, and empowering others to achieve their potential. At every stage of his journey, he has demonstrated resilience, discipline, and an unwavering dedication to paying forward the support he once received. He embodies the legacy of Catherine Craig-Erhardt through his impact on others and his enduring commitment to education and service.

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).
 

Brenda De Aza Santana

Brenda De Aza Santana demonstrates the achievement and determination recognized by the Charles W. Laffin Jr. Memorial Award. A graduate of Excelsior University’s Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management program, she built on her earlier community college experience while working as a respiratory therapist and raising a family. Her academic success reflects a sustained commitment to education despite significant personal and professional demands.

During her MBA program, De Aza Santana translated her coursework into measurable results in her workplace. She co-developed and launched an asthma self-management and training program that secured significant grant funding to support patient education and care resources. Within its first year, the program improved patient outcomes, reduced emergency visits and hospitalizations, and generated reimbursement for the hospital. She also contributed to sharing these results more broadly, including publishing program outcomes through a professional organization and developing further work for journal submission.

She plans to expand this program model to support additional chronic respiratory conditions and extend its impact across other healthcare settings.

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.
 

Anthony Lewin Pardella

Anthony Lewin Pardella exemplifies the legacy of the Dwayn Hanford Award through a strong record of public service and academic achievement. A graduate of Excelsior University’s Bachelor of Science in Homeland Security and Emergency Management program, Pardella completed his studies while balancing service and personal responsibilities. In his 24 years of honorable service in the United States Army as a senior noncommissioned officer, he led teams in high-pressure environments and mentored soldiers in core leadership values.

Pardella’s commitment to leadership extends into his community through mentorship, ROTC instruction, and active involvement in emergency management and disaster response with local nongovernmental organizations. His work focuses on strengthening preparedness, communication, and resilience before, during, and after crises. His Excelsior education further enhanced his ability to apply evidence-based strategies and critical thinking to real-world public service challenges.

Looking ahead, Pardella plans to continue serving in disaster response and emergency management roles, with aspirations to support organizations such as FEMA and the American Red Cross. He remains dedicated to advancing the principles this award honors through continued service and professional growth.

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.

 
Dennis Mims
Dennis Mims demonstrates the depth of experience and commitment to safety recognized by the Dr. Robert L. Long Memorial Award. A graduate of Excelsior University’s Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering Technology program, Mims has worked in the nuclear industry for more than 30 years. Over the course of his career, he has supported more than 45 nuclear facilities across the United States and currently serves as a subject matter expert in radiation protection at Los Alamos National Laboratory, where he plays a key role in radiological safety and project execution within decontamination and decommissioning operations.

Throughout his career, Mims has taken on positions of increasing responsibility, including roles as radiation safety officer and radiological protection site manager. His work focuses on ensuring safe conditions in high-risk environments and maintaining strict compliance with radiological standards. His contributions have had a direct impact on worker safety and mission success. He is also a dedicated leader who mentors others in the field, helping to strengthen teams and reinforce a culture of accountability.

His education at Excelsior further enhanced his ability to approach complex challenges with a stronger analytical foundation, connecting technical experience with deeper knowledge of nuclear systems and engineering principles. This combination of experience and academic achievement has made him a highly effective contributor to large-scale projects and operational decision-making.

Looking ahead, Mims plans to continue growing in leadership roles where he can support safe and efficient operations across the nuclear industry.

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.
 

 
Jeremy Rullan
Jeremy Rullan reflects the leadership and integrity honored by the Jean M. Smith Award through his academic achievement and distinguished military service. A graduate of Excelsior University’s Bachelor of Science in Business program, Rullan developed strong analytical and ethical decision-making skills through his studies. His coursework emphasized accountability and the importance of responsible business leadership.

Rullan’s leadership foundation was forged during more than 13 years of service in the United States Army as a cavalry scout and ranger instructor. A graduate of Airborne training and Ranger School, he led and mentored soldiers in high-risk environments where disciplined leadership, sound judgment, and accountability were critical. As a ranger instructor, he was responsible for training and evaluating soldiers under demanding conditions, reinforcing fairness, consistency, and integrity—qualities that directly inform his approach to leadership in business.

Rullan demonstrated academic achievement through MBA coursework in ethical risk management, drawing on his military leadership experience to examine how accountability, governance, and ethical decision-making influence organizational outcomes. His studies deepened his ability to analyze complex challenges and reinforced a commitment to leading with integrity, fairness, and a strong sense of responsibility. Rullan plans to pursue a career in finance, focusing on financial and budget analysis, where he can strengthen oversight, improve efficiency, and support data-driven decision-making.

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.

Shandell McClain
Through her dedication to academic excellence and commitment to serving others, Shandell McClain embodies the service-driven leadership honored by the Joshua L. Smith Memorial Award. A graduate of Excelsior University’s Master of Science in Management program, McClain successfully balanced her studies with ongoing community service. Her academic experience enhanced her ability to lead effectively and navigate complex organizational environments while engaging diverse communities with empathy and professionalism.

McClain’s commitment to service is evident in her volunteer work with the American Legion and her outreach through recruiting command initiatives. She has supported veterans and local residents by connecting them with critical resources such as housing, employment, and benefits, demonstrating the power of service to restore dignity and build trust. Her leadership also extends to mentoring youth, partnering with schools, and fostering community relationships that create opportunities and encourage personal growth. These efforts reflect her belief that leadership is rooted in connection and a responsibility to give back.

McClain plans to continue her education, develop project management expertise, and pursue a career supporting nonprofit organizations. Guided by a deep commitment to service, leadership, and community impact, she embodies the values of Joshua L. Smith by using education as a tool to uplift others and strengthen the communities she serves.

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.
 
Anthowan Burrell
Through his lifelong commitment to education, service, and advocacy, Anthowan Burrell embodies the principles of inclusion, equity, and belonging celebrated by this award. A Master of Science in Cybersecurity graduate of Excelsior University, Burrell built on a foundation shaped by perseverance and the influence of his mother, an educator who instilled in him the transformative power of learning. Over a 21-year military career spanning multiple continents, he pursued his education under demanding conditions, demonstrating both academic discipline and a deep belief in education as a tool for empowerment and opportunity.

Burrell’s dedication to inclusion is reflected in his impactful volunteer and leadership efforts. While stationed overseas, he tutored refugee children, helping them rebuild confidence and a sense of belonging through education. At Excelsior, he advanced this work by mentoring first-generation and military-connected students, creating supportive spaces for those balancing service, family, and academic demands. He founded a peer network for service members and veterans enrolled in evening and weekend classes called The Night Shift, which grew into a global community supporting one another through shared challenges. His research on the educational experiences of military families further elevated voices that are often overlooked, helping others better understand the barriers these students face. These efforts demonstrate his commitment to making sure individuals feel seen and heard.

Looking ahead, Burrell plans to pursue advanced studies in leadership and cybersecurity operations, with the goal of protecting and strengthening both physical and digital communities. Guided by a belief that education creates lasting ripple effects, he remains dedicated to fostering environments where individuals feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.

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.
 

 
Gurdeep Joshi
Gurdeep Joshi exemplifies the academic excellence and technical achievement recognized by the Marvin Curling Memorial Award. A graduate of Excelsior University’s Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology program with a concentration in Power Systems, Joshi earned his degree while serving as a nuclear electrician in the United States Navy aboard an aircraft carrier. His ability to balance a demanding military career with rigorous academic study reflects both discipline and a strong commitment to continuous improvement.

Throughout his studies, Joshi demonstrated a passion for engineering, applying both his technical experience and academic learning to deepen his understanding of complex electrical systems. His coursework challenged him to refine his critical thinking, expand his perspective, and collaborate effectively with peers, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and problem-solving in technical environments. His experience highlights the successful integration of hands-on industry expertise with formal education, a principle central to Marvin Curling’s legacy.

Looking ahead, Joshi plans to pursue a Master of Business Administration to complement his technical background, with the goal of bridging engineering expertise and strategic leadership. He aspires to contribute to the development of innovative technologies while guiding organizations toward impactful and sustainable solutions.

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.
 

 
Tiffany Brown
Tiffany Brown exemplifies the perseverance and academic excellence recognized by the Michael J. Cooley Memorial Award. A Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences graduate, Brown’s story is one of resilience and growth, demonstrating remarkable determination in returning to her studies and building her academic path.

Through her experience at Excelsior, Brown rediscovered her confidence and passion for healthcare, developing a strong interest in quality, safety, and systems improvement. The program’s flexibility and supportive environment allowed her to balance family responsibilities while progressing academically, reinforcing her belief that perseverance is defined not by perfection, but by the courage to continue despite setbacks. Her journey reflects the determination and adaptability that define adult learners in the health sciences.

Looking ahead, Brown plans to pursue a career focused on healthcare quality and patient safety, with aspirations to work with The Joint Commission and to earn a Master of Public Health. She aims to contribute to systems-level improvements that enhance care for individuals and communities. Guided by resilience, empathy, and a renewed sense of purpose, Tiffany Brown embodies the spirit of the Cooley Award, demonstrating how perseverance can lead to meaningful personal, academic, and professional achievement.

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.
 

 
Ana Ibis Alfonso-Hernandez
Through her dedication to academic excellence and clinical leadership, Ana Ibis Alfonso-Hernandez embodies the qualities recognized by the Mildred L. Montag Memorial Award. A graduate of Excelsior University’s Master of Science in Nursing program, she earned a 4.0 GPA and demonstrated outstanding performance across all coursework. As a wound, ostomy, and continence nurse, she brought extensive clinical experience into her studies and used her education to strengthen her approach to patient care and quality improvement.

During her program, Alfonso-Hernandez translated her academic work into measurable improvements in practice. She designed and led the implementation of a wound care program across two facilities that reduced hospital-acquired pressure injuries and promoted more consistent, evidence-based interventions. In doing so, she helped shift clinical practice toward earlier intervention and more proactive care planning. She also guided colleagues in adopting new protocols, supported staff education, and contributed to stronger interdisciplinary coordination around wound management. Balancing graduate studies with full-time clinical responsibilities, she demonstrated the ability to lead initiatives that improved both patient outcomes and quality standards.

She is continuing her professional advancement through doctoral study, building on a strong record of clinical impact, leadership, and academic achievement.

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.
 

 
Maxwell Sturn
The Robert E. Kinsinger Memorial Award is presented to Maxwell Sturn in recognition of his leadership, service, and commitment to improving healthcare access through volunteer and professional EMS work. A Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences graduate, Sturn has demonstrated the qualities honored by this award through his dedication to community-based emergency care, leadership within a nonprofit volunteer fire department and ambulance service, and efforts to strengthen emergency response systems.

As an EMS captain and program manager, Sturn oversees patient care personnel while supporting training, continuing education, policy development, equipment management, and operational responsibilities. Through effective communication, team building, and a focus on supporting individual growth, Sturn helped expand the EMS team from fewer than 10 EMTs to nearly 30, improving response times and enabling the organization to assist neighboring communities. His work reflects the spirit of Dr. Robert E. Kinsinger’s legacy by demonstrating leadership, service, and a commitment to addressing healthcare needs.

Sturn credits his Excelsior University education with strengthening the skills needed to lead in complex healthcare environments, including communication, emergency management, and understanding diverse community needs. Professionally, he plans to continue serving as an EMS provider while pursuing opportunities in supervision and administration to address gaps in care and improve health outcomes. His work exemplifies the impact that compassionate leadership and education can have on a community.

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.
 

 
Douglas Harris
The Robert P. Mahoney Memorial Award is presented to Douglas Harris in recognition of his perseverance in completing his degree while overcoming significant personal and professional challenges, as well as his lifelong commitment to serving others. His experience is shaped by more than 36 years of service in the Virginia Army National Guard, including 24 years on active duty. At 55 years old, Harris earned his Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts from Excelsior University after an 18-year academic journey marked by military deployments and family health issues. shaped by more than 36 years of service in the Virginia Army National Guard, including 24 years on active duty. While serving as state command chief warrant officer, he completed his degree with a 4.0 GPA and earned summa cum laude honors.

Throughout his career and personal life, Harris has demonstrated a dedication to supporting others through volunteer leadership, including a decade of service with a local nonprofit assisting individuals and families facing financial hardship, homelessness, and hunger. He has also shared his experiences with students and community members as a speaker and advocate for education and service. His contributions have been recognized with the Army Superior Volunteer Service Medal, the Humanitarian Service Medal, and the “It Takes a Village Award” from his county school board.

Harris credits his liberal arts education with strengthening his ability to think critically, understand diverse perspectives, and lead with empathy. He pursued his degree not only as a personal achievement but also to inspire his children and continue his growth as a leader. He plans to carry the lessons gained through his Excelsior University experience forward through continued service to his family, profession, and community.

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.
 

Tajirah Whyte-Morris
The Ruth V. Matheney Memorial Award is presented to Tajirah Whyte-Morris, a graduate of Excelsior University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, in recognition of her outstanding academic achievement and commitment to advancing patient-centered nursing practice and education. Whyte-Morris began her healthcare career as a certified nursing assistant at age 18 and continued her professional growth by becoming a licensed practical nurse before returning to school to pursue her nursing education at Excelsior University. She successfully balanced her studies with full-time employment and the responsibilities of being a new mother.

Throughout her academic journey, Tajirah Whyte-Morris demonstrated the perseverance, dedication, and commitment to excellence that reflect the legacy of Ruth V. Matheney. Excelsior University provided the flexibility and support that allowed her to continue progressing as a nurse while managing professional and family responsibilities. Her experiences collaborating with faculty, peers, and her personal support system strengthened her understanding of teamwork and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in providing quality patient care.

Looking ahead, Whyte-Morris plans to continue her education through a master’s degree in nursing education at Excelsior University, with the goal of becoming a mentor and educator for future generations of nurses. In her professional role as a clinical care supervisor in home care, she hopes to continue developing her leadership skills and eventually pursue case management certification and doctoral study. Her journey reflects a lifelong commitment to nursing excellence, professional growth, and the advancement of patient-centered care.