CJ Morales is an accounting major at Florida State University who consistently raises the bar in community impact. He serves as chapter president for the Beta Theta Pi Fraternity, where he oversees all operations and serves as the liaison between the chapter and its national organization.

After the passing of his grandmother in 2015, Morales and his family founded the nonprofit The Abuelos Foundation, which serves the senior community through projects such as house painting and grocery shopping. Through the foundation, Morales raised an estimated $125,000 worth of groceries for senior citizens and contributed an estimated 30,000 community service hours for student volunteers in Miami-Dade County over the past decade.

Looking toward the future, Morales intends to return to FSU to earn his Master of Accounting degree. Over the next 18 months, he will focus his efforts on preparing for and completing the CPA Exam.

Why did you choose Florida State University?

I was looking for a public university in Florida, and FSU gave me the opportunity to save money because I earned the Florida Academic Scholars Award through the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program.

In addition, I wanted to go to a university outside of my hometown of Miami. In my opinion, Tallahassee to Miami is the perfect distance where I am not too far from my family, but I am far enough to be independent and deal with adversities myself.

FSU has been instrumental in my professional growth, and I look forward to carrying the skills and insights I’ve gained into the next chapter of my life and career.

What academic achievements have you accomplished at FSU?

My most significant accomplishment at FSU has been using the university’s resources to secure and complete an internship with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) at its Miami office last summer. As a tax intern, I participated in a tax case study and completed a Pro Bono Client Project, while shadowing seasoned professionals across both the tax and audit departments. 

I was able to land this internship through hard work as well as regular guidance from the Department of Accounting and the Herbert Wertheim College of Business. Finding internships can be hard, and I believe they make it easier for students to prepare for these internships through mandatory classes and guest speakers.

How do you serve the FSU community?

I was initiated into my fraternity, Beta Theta Pi, in the fall of 2024. As a newly initiated brother, I served as the fraternity’s philanthropy chair. I’ve created entertaining events that combine both community service and philanthropy. My favorite event was our collaboration with Kappa Kappa Gamma during the Halloween season. It was a five-minute tour around a self-made route filled with scare-actors and tour guides. We had 700 participants in three hours and raised $11,000 for multiple beneficiaries. 

The Abuelos Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization that my family and I started in 2016 after the passing of my grandmother in June of 2015. “Abuelos” means “grandparents” in Spanish, and the mission is to combat solitude within the elderly communities of Miami-Dade County and Leon County. Last year, we held multiple philanthropy and community service events to benefit the Abuelos Foundation in Tallahassee, in addition to continuing our monthly events in Miami. Having recently surpassed The Abuelos Foundation’s 10-year anniversary, I am incredibly proud to see the impact grow from its roots in Miami to supporting senior citizens across the state. 

After graduation, I plan to return to PwC to build expertise in asset and wealth management or mergers and acquisitions. I also hope to continue to improve the Abuelos Foundation and expand our mission statewide or on a national scale. 

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Doctoral candidate Mani Tyagi is pursuing his doctoral degree in Computational Science within the Department of Scientific Computing. Tyagi’s mission is to advance the mathematical methods used to model materials, utilizing high-performance computing to solve complex challenges in physics. He aims to use his research to improve the accuracy of how we predict the behavior of materials simulations essential to modern technology. 

Tyagi uses resources from the Research Computing Center and high-performance computing to make the complex and time-consuming calculations feasible. He has been working under the guidance of Chen Huang, associate professor in the Department of Scientific Computing, who has been helpful in mentoring him and guiding his research direction. 

As a researcher, Tyagi has made significant contributions to the development of new computational models and mixing parameters. He is recognized for his work on approximating how electrons interact within atoms, an approach that allows researchers to more accurately simulate materials like transition metals and other highly correlated materials. For his academic contributions and research potential, Tyagi was honored with the Dean’s Award for Doctoral Excellence (DADE Scholarship). 

Tyagi’s impact is felt across the FSU community through his service as a mentor for the Florida-Georgia Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (FGLSAMP), where he supports the professional development of the next generation of researchers. He holds key leadership roles as President of the Indian Students Association of Tallahassee (INSAT) and as the coordinator of his department’s student-run journal club, strengthening an environment of inclusivity and scientific communication. 

Why did you choose to attend Florida State University?

I chose Florida State University because of its strong interdisciplinary program in Computational Science, which provides an ideal environment for advancing my research in DFT and materials modeling.  

The Department of Scientific Computing at FSU has a reputation for combining high-performance computing with fundamental research in physics and materials science, a synergy that aligned perfectly with my academic interests. FSU’s collaborative learning culture and access to cutting-edge computational facilities have been instrumental as I built the foundation for my doctoral degree.  

What are some projects you’ve been involved in?

One of my most significant projects at Florida State has been the development of the Spatial Mixing of Model Potentials (SMMP) method. In this work, I designed spatially dependent mixing parameters to improve exchange–correlation potentials by combining exact exchange with local density approximations. This project also involved implementing Optimized Effective Potential (OEP) methods with nonlocal pseudopotential forces, with the aim of improving predictions for strongly correlated systems. 

Another important accomplishment has been my work on the Embedded Atom Approximation (EAA) for exchange–correlation energy. By partitioning electron density across atoms, this method provides a more realistic treatment of localized correlations, particularly in transition metals and rare earth materials. This work has enhanced our understanding of complex correlation effects in materials such as transition metal oxides. 

In recognition of my academic contributions and research potential, I was awarded the DADE Scholarship at FSU. This highly competitive fellowship supports outstanding doctoral students across disciplines, and this award has been a strong motivation for me to continue advancing methodological developments in Density Functional Theory and materials modeling. 

How have you impacted your community?

One of my most meaningful contributions at Florida State has been serving as a mentor in the FGLSAMP program for the past two years. In this role, I have mentored undergraduate students by supporting their academic growth, exposing them to research and guiding their professional development. This experience has been especially rewarding because it allowed me to contribute directly to FSU’s mission of broadening participation in STEM and fostering the next generation of researchers. 

My research also serves the university’s broader mission; I have contributed to FSU’s reputation as a leader in computational science by developing advanced Density Functional Theory methods that improve the accuracy of electronic structure predictions in technologically important materials. This work not only strengthens the university’s standing in scientific research but also creates opportunities for future collaborations in materials modeling. 

Beyond the lab, I serve as President of the Indian Students Association of Tallahassee (INSAT), where I organize cultural and social events that strengthen inclusivity and community engagement on campus. I also act as the coordinator of our department’s newly established student-run journal club, providing a collaborative platform for graduate students to critically discuss recent research and enhance scientific communication skills. Together, these contributions reflect my commitment to advancing scientific knowledge while also giving back to the FSU and Tallahassee communities. 

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Eddie Fordham is a public policy student at Florida State University who symbolizes what it means to make a comeback. Fordham, a formerly incarcerated student, continues to push the boundaries of academic success and research to fuel himself and his passions through academic excellence and community leadership.

Fordham is enrolled in the Honors in the Major program to pursue his undergraduate thesis “Degrees of Opportunity: Understanding Degree Completion Among Justice-Impacted College Students.” His research was awarded an IDEA Grant. He completes his research while being mentored by public policy associate teaching professor Alexandra Cockerham.

Fordham was also selected as an FSU PURPOSE Fellow, conducting research pathways oriented to social justice in education under the mentorship of assistant professor Annie Wofford, in the Higher Education program.

Fordham will be continuing his education with FSU’s Combined Pathways Program for his master’s degree in public administration. One day, he hopes to become a professor and apply his research to support returning citizens and other justice-impacted students’ success.

Outside of academics, Fordham is a founding member of the Justice-Impacted Student Organization (JISO), on the board of directors for Big Bend AFTER Reentry Coalition (A Fight to End Recidivism), a member of the Florida Foundation for Correctional Excellence Lived-Experience Council, and a member of the Omicron Delta Kappa and Phi Kappa Phi honor societies.

In 2025 through Phi Kappa Phi, Fordham became one of three Pioneer Award winners at FSU.

Why did you choose Florida State University?

Criminal conviction should not be a barrier to higher education. As a formerly incarcerated student, I arrived at Florida State University with lived experience and a deep desire to turn hardship into purpose. In many ways, through its commitment to service, research and social impact, I believe it was actually FSU that chose me.

FSU not only welcomed my background, it empowered me and gave me the tools and support to transform my personal journey into leadership and academic inquiry. Here, I found not just a campus, but a community that shares my mission to expand educational access for justice-impacted individuals. FSU became the place where my story could grow into something larger than myself.

What academic achievements have you accomplished at FSU?

One of my proudest academic accomplishments was being awarded the Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. As a Cooke Scholar at FSU, I am committed to leadership and contribution, and FSU has furthered my love for research, selecting me as an Honors in the Major student to complete my undergraduate thesis and research project.

This work explores the barriers and real-life challenges that students like me face when returning to college after justice system involvement and offers evidence-based pathways to support their success. I will be gathering stories, surveying peers and studying the systems that either help or hinder our success — the data matters, but so do the people behind it and the IDEA grant and PURPOSE Fellowship I was awarded from FSU will help me build further on this project.

I also served in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) as a research assistant to Professor Alexandra Cockerham and her study on North Carolina’s Teen Court system. I was recently accepted into FSU’s Combined Pathways Program to begin earning credit toward my master’s degree in public administration while finishing my undergraduate degree.

Every step of this unconquered journey reflects my commitment to scholarship that serves people and drives system-level change.

How do you serve the FSU community?

As a founding member of the Justice-Impacted Student Organization (JISO) — the first of its kind at FSU — I am passionate about creating a space of belonging, empowerment and advocacy for students impacted by the justice system. Through JISO, we are planning to build peer support networks, host campus events, and connect with national reform leaders to help shape student-led solutions for educational success.

Beyond campus, I serve on the board of directors for Big Bend AFTER Reentry Coalition (A Fight to End Recidivism), where we support justice-impacted individuals across the Tallahassee region through education, advocacy and reentry support. I am also a passionate advocate before the Florida Legislature on reforms that unlock higher education in prison for others. Being named an FSU PURPOSE Fellow and inducted to Omicron Delta Kappa and Phi Kappa Phi honor societies reflects the broader impact of my work both in and out of the classroom.

How do you impact the community?

My work has helped ensure that justice-impacted students are seen, supported and valued at FSU. Through JISO, we have created a space where students who have experienced incarceration, directly or through family, can find belonging and community. That visibility alone can be life-changing, which is why the recognition from FSU’s Student Government is so meaningful. Last fall, the 77th Student Senate passed “The Eddie Fordham Act,” which removed a longstanding felony-conviction barrier and gives justice-impacted students a represented voice in SGA.

In the broader community, my work with the Big Bend AFTER Reentry Coalition and the Florida Foundation for Correctional Excellence has helped build reentry pathways grounded in education, dignity and long-term success. I have advocated before the Legislature, connected community partners, and shared my story to help shift public perception.

Everything I do, whether it is mentoring, research or serving others, aims to turn personal resilience into public impact. I want people in Tallahassee and beyond to see FSU as a place where transformation is not only possible, but powerfully real.

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Nepalese doctoral candidate Bhushan Dahal is pursuing his doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies (ELPS), Dahal’s mission is to apply the knowledge gained during his time at FSU toward strengthening the public-school systems of Nepal. He aims to use research to dig deeper into core questions regarding school-community partnerships.

As both a national and international educator, Dahal has seen firsthand how changes in policy and leadership can directly influence education at the administrative level. He has made a tremendous impact on educational reform through his service as both executive director and strategic director for the nonprofit Kids of Kathmandu, an organization that has built eleven public schools and two are under construction across Nepal, serving 7,500 students.

Dahal has been featured in the Tallahassee Democrat and led a TED talk at FSU where his work was highlighted with the message “it all begins with education.” He holds leadership roles in both the Leadership, Education and Research Network (LEARN) and the Nepalese Student Association (NSA).

Looking towards the future, Dahal hopes to return to Nepal and use his studies here at Florida State to strengthen public schools and address a core question: “Why are students not learning even when they attend school, and what can communities do to solve this?”

Why did you choose to attend FSU?

I chose to pursue my doctorate in ELPS at Florida State University because of its global outlook and strong emphasis on advancing educational equity through leadership and research. As an educator and administrator who has worked with both national and international organizations, I have seen how policy, leadership and teacher capacity directly influence the quality of education. My experiences have also shown that while improving infrastructure is important, lasting educational reform depends on empowering teachers and strengthening school leadership. The ELPS program’s focus on global and comparative education, and its faculty’s engagement in international research, aligns closely with my goals. I am especially inspired by the work of Associate Professor of International and Multicultural Education in the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, Ayesha Khurshid, whose research on education, gender and transnational contexts resonates deeply with my interest in understanding how leadership and policy affect public schooling in Nepal. Learning under her mentorship helps me critically examine how local realities connect to broader global forces shaping education.

What academic achievements are you most proud of?

One of my most significant accomplishments at FSU was being featured on the front page of the Tallahassee Democrat for my work in Nepal, which highlights the schools I have helped rebuild and the educational initiatives I continue to lead there. I was also invited to give a TED Talk at FSU, where I shared my journey and research on school-community partnerships and educational reform in Nepal. In addition, I am currently leading a conference jointly organized by the World Bank and the Learning Systems Institute at FSU, which focuses on global education systems and policy innovation. These experiences have allowed me to connect my academic research with real-world impact while representing FSU on both local and international platforms.

How have you impacted the FSU community?

At FSU, I’ve tried to build bridges — between local and global communities, and between stories and impact. Sharing my journey of rebuilding public schools in Nepal has allowed me to bring real-world perspectives into classrooms and conversations here. Being featured in the Tallahassee Democrat and giving a TED Talk at FSU reminded me how deeply connected our global efforts are to this campus. Closer to home, leading the LEARN network and the Nepalese Student Association has given me a chance to mentor students, celebrate culture and create a sense of belonging. In small ways, I hope my work reflects FSU’s spirit of community and purpose. 

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As a Florida native, Ella Vizzini was searching for a university experience that could offer her the familiar feelings of home while simultaneously pushing her to grow in new directions — both of which she found at Florida State University. Her passion for health and fitness coupled with her love of science meant that FSU’s innovative exercise physiology program was another determining factor in her decision to attend.

Vizzini is both an Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) participant and a 2025 IDEA Grant recipient, dedicating a significant portion of her time at FSU to metabolic and vascular research. She has also served as the Director of Philanthropy for the Alpha Phi International Fraternity, raising more than $77,000 supporting the Tallahassee Memorial Hospital Heart and Vascular Center and the Alpha Phi Foundation.

With a family history of heart disease, Vizzini has used her personal experiences as a driving force in her commitment to community service. She is a member of the FSU Medical Response Unit, where she has gained real-world experience responding to emergency medical situations on campus. Taking advantage of the opportunities presented to her at Florida State University, Vizzini will be applying to medical school this summer.

Why did you choose to attend FSU?

I chose to attend Florida State University for its stellar academics, breathtaking campus and unwavering school spirit. As a Florida native, I knew I wanted to continue my education at a university that gave me the comforts of home while still providing new and enriching experiences, and FSU gave me just that. While browsing FSU’s catalog of prospective majors, I came across exercise physiology and was immediately intrigued. It combined my passion for health and fitness with my strong interest in the sciences. Seeing all this program had to offer, I knew it would be one of my primary motivating factors in gaining acceptance to FSU.

What academic achievements are you most proud of?

Through the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), I joined the Lab of Integrative Vascular and Metabolic Physiology under the mentorship of doctoral candidate Paul Baker. There I assisted in studying the effects of creatine monohydrate on vascular health in overweight and obese individuals. This experience was incredibly rewarding and deepened my passion for vascular and metabolic research. I had the opportunity to present our findings at both the FSU Undergraduate Research Symposium (URS) and the Florida Undergraduate Research Conference (FURC). This experience gave me the knowledge and confidence to apply for the 2025 IDEA Grant alongside my lab mate. We aimed to further explore the relationship between exercise interventions and metabolic health — specifically in women. With a shared interest in women’s health, we designed a study on the effects of exercise interventions on menopausal symptoms in postmenopausal women. We conducted our research and presented our findings at the President’s Showcase of Undergraduate Research Excellence in October 2025.

How have you impacted your community?

I have a deep passion for giving back to the community in ways that are personally meaningful. With a  family history of heart disease, I’ve pursued opportunities that allow me to make a tangible impact on this cause. During my time in Alpha Phi, the funds I helped raise have gone on to support research advancements, purchase critical technology and fund programs that positively impact not only the Tallahassee community but others across the country. Through my involvement with Who We Play For, an organization that provides free or low-cost electrocardiogram screenings to help prevent Sudden Cardiac Arrest and raise awareness for heart health, I’ve been able to make a direct impact by providing affordable, potentially life-saving care to individuals in the community. As a researcher, the work we do in our lab contributes valuable scientific knowledge and informs interventions that can help individuals improve their overall health. Additionally, as a member of the FSU Medical Response Unit, I’ve had the opportunity to provide hands-on emergency medical care to those on campus.

All in all, my work at FSU and in the broader community is driven by my passion to help others and to positively impact their health and quality of life.

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Genessa Dulcio is a civil engineering major and part of the Engineering Ambassadors Network at Florida State University. She is the winner of the Spring 2025 Civil and Environmental Engineering Undergraduate Research Award for her work in wind engineering and computational fluid dynamics models.

Her research, mentored by Assistant Professor Fernandez-Caban from the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, enhanced her love of engineering research and inspired Dulcio to continue research into her future career.

Dulcio serves in the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) as the fall regional conference chair where she supervised all conference planning efforts and directives for the region’s 2025 conference.

She also serves as president of the Caribbean Student Association.

Why did you choose to attend Florida State University?

FSU was a perfect fit and the obvious choice for me. I’ve always been an adventurous person, and I wanted a larger school with enough room to grow so I didn’t go stir crazy. I had been exploring different schools, but I admired how FSU seemed to foster growth and embrace student learning. 

Programs like the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP) and Global Scholars seemed to really be geared toward getting students out of their comfort zone and pushing them academically. It was a comforting thought to see that I could end up somewhere that would satiate my desire to constantly be learning something new and doing something different. When I came on a tour, I fell in love with the campus and energy of everyone I met and knew I’d have a great time here. 

What academic achievements have you accomplished at FSU?

One of my proudest academic accomplishments was winning the Spring 2025 Civil and Environmental Engineering Undergraduate Research Award. Coming into college, I had high school teachers tell me to get into research because they thought that type of environment suited me; but truthfully, I had no clue what research would actually look like.  

I took the initiative to research civil and environmental engineering professors and staff to find someone doing work in a subject I found cool and relevant. I found Assistant Professor Fernandez-Caban, who allowed me to shadow some of the projects he was working on.  

That work inspired me to dive deeper into my research, so together we developed a personal research project for me to independently pursue. Now, that project is focused on wind engineering and computational fluid dynamics models, and it makes me excited for all my future research. To have a project that not only I can call my own, but that has already been recognized for excellence among my peers has given me confidence to continue in research. 

How do you serve the FSU community?

My two most significant leadership contributions would be to the Caribbean Student Association (CSA) and the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). I’ve been involved in CSA as Miss CSA, the secretary and now the president. In NSBE, I served as the hospitality and entertainment coordinator for the 2024 Region 3 conference planning committee and now serve on the regional board as the fall regional conference chair. 

Both organizations are important to me because they’ve offered amazing opportunities for growth and leadership. They also connect me with students who understand my struggles, background and that will offer unrelenting support. In return, for the priceless bonds and knowledge both CSA and NSBE have offered me, I’ve had the chance to shape these organizations and create a lasting impact for future students to be embraced in the same way I was. 

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Matthew Valdes is a biomedical engineering student who works as a surgical support technician at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital (TMH). After volunteering for a year at TMH with the post-op care unit and internal medicine unit, he became inspired to seek his current part-time role.

Valdes is involved with many biomedical engineering clubs and societies. He is a member of the Generational Relief in Prosthetics club (GRiPs), through which he participated in Hand Camp, a nonprofit event where kids with upper limb differences can experience camp life with adaptive solutions for routine and recreational activities. There, he helped design a customized 3D-printed controller for a child who wanted to play video games on the Nintendo Switch.

As an engineering ambassador for FSU, Valdes goes to K-12 classrooms and community events to encourage the next generation to pursue STEM careers.

Valdes balances these academic opportunities with his volunteer work at Big Bend Cares Inc., where he serves as a front-desk receptionist and prepares monthly food bags for community members with HIV.

Why did you choose Florida State University?

I visited FSU’s campus when I was in middle school because I had siblings that went here. It was an amazing experience seeing the beautiful school campus and all the curiosity that went with it; this set my initial path to attend FSU. I became very motivated to succeed in high school to have the privilege to be a part of FSU. What ultimately finalized my choice was that the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering had an amazing student-faculty ratio and included a biomedical engineering program. 

What academic achievements have you accomplished at FSU?

I have been on the FSU and/or College of Engineering Dean’s list every semester since I began here at FSU. As an engineering ambassador, I have had the amazing opportunity to go to K-12 classrooms and community events. I show students how awesome STEM can be, and I encourage those who think they cannot do it to pursue it and motivate their curiosity. 

How do you serve the FSU community?

In school, being a part of the GRiPs club has allowed me to partake in unforgettable experiences. We designed 3D-printed custom toys for children with certain hand deformities, for a child who didn’t have all his fingers on one hand and struggled to use the Nintendo Switch remotes. My team and I had the opportunity to give it to him in person at a special weekend event last spring called Hand Camp. It was so amazing to see all the children our club designed customized toys for and watch their faces light up instantly. 

Outside of school, I volunteered at TMH for a year on two different floors of the hospital (post-op care unit and internal medicine). I assisted the staff by answering patient calls from their rooms, giving out water to patients, cleaning and restocking the rooms, and checking in on patients and attending to their non-medical needs. This work led me to get a part-time job as a surgical support technician. My work here helping staff members allows for better patient care in the local Tallahassee community. 

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Shahin Alam, a doctoral student at Florida State University, demonstrates his dedication to civil engineering through his dissertation on hydraulic elements within the St. Johns River Basin.

During his time at FSU, Alam has actively participated in leadership and service projects that enhance academic achievement, professional growth and increased student involvement.

With the mentorship of civil and environmental engineering professor Gang Chen, Alam studies local water to quantify its nutrient dynamics. He also assesses the flow of nitrogen and phosphorus in the water and monitors potential contaminants such as microplastics, nutrient pollutions and PFAS, which are “per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances” that do not break down easily in the environment.

Alam’s dissertation addresses water quality challenges faced by many Florida communities — the key purpose and motivation behind his research.

As president of the Civil and Environmental Engineering Graduate Student Association (CEEGSA) and a representative for his college in the Congress of Graduate Students,  Alam connects with fellow engineers to support their professional development, organize events and boost interdisciplinary networking opportunities.

Why did you choose Florida State University?

I chose to attend FSU because of its strong interdisciplinary focus on environmental and water resources engineering, which aligns with my research interests in emerging contaminants such as PFAS and microplastics.  

FSU’s collaborative research environment and access to advanced resources provide a platform to combine data-driven modeling, environmental chemistry and sustainability science to address critical global water contamination issues. 

What academic achievements have you accomplished at FSU?

One of my most significant academic accomplishments at FSU was leading a comprehensive, data-driven research project on how nutrients move and change in the St. Johns River Basin. This work provided new insights into how urbanization, agricultural activities and tidal processes jointly influence nitrogen and phosphorus movement throughout coastal watersheds. 

Another major accomplishment involves my research on PFAS and microplastics. My dissertation combines machine learning, deep learning and watershed modeling. This makes me one of the few students who merges AI with environmental science in the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering.  

How do you serve the FSU community?

During my time at FSU, I have been involved in leadership and service initiatives that promote academic excellence, professional development and student engagement. 

As president of the Civil and Environmental Engineering Graduate Student Association (CEEGSA), I organized and led numerous events, including the annual CEEGSA Professional Conference, research and career networking sessions and student orientation programs. I also hosted social activities such as bowling and billiards nights to strengthen connections among students, faculty and external partners.  

I’ve also served as the Congress of Graduate Students (COGS) representative for the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering, where I advocate for graduate student funding, research travel grants and equitable resource distribution. 

These leadership experiences strengthened my skills in collaboration, communication and organizational management outside the classroom. 

How does your work at FSU impact Florida’s communities?

My work at FSU has contributed to both academic and local communities through a combination of research, leadership and outreach. 

As a doctoral researcher in civil and environmental engineering, my studies on PFAS, microplastics and nutrient pollution in Florida’s river systems directly address regional water quality challenges. By collaborating with local and state agencies, including the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, I help advance data-driven understanding of contamination patterns in the St. Johns River Basin to protect Florida’s water resources and ecosystems. 

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Hayley Schermer, a fourth-year College of Medicine cell and molecular neuroscience major, has spent the past two years immersed in research through Florida State University’s Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), a Directed Individual Study (DIS) and an IDEA Grant.

During her time at FSU, she worked in the lab of Department of Exercise Physiology’s Linda Grizzard Owens Endowed Professor Robert Hickner. There she investigated how exercise influences sleep quality in pre-diabetic, postmenopausal women. As part of a four-week exercise program, she monitored participants’ health data using Oura Rings and surveyed them to assess psychological changes.

Beyond the lab, Schermer is making an impact in the Tallahassee community. She founded the New Horizons Network, a nonprofit dedicated to helping job seekers. Through résumé workshops at the Kearney Center, she has created, printed and distributed 30 resumes — giving individuals the tools they need to pursue employment opportunities.

Why did you choose Florida State University?

I chose to attend Florida State University for many reasons, but what really stood out to me was the strong sense of community. When I visited, the tour guides made FSU feel welcoming right away, and they were actually the reason I applied to the Honors Program. Talking with them, I could tell that FSU was not just a school, it was a place where students supported each other and took pride in being part of something bigger.

Another big factor in my decision was Florida State’s impressive resources for students pursuing medical school. I knew I wanted to go into medicine, and FSU offered everything I needed to be supported on that path.

There is something so special about being surrounded by students who love where they go to school and show up for each other, not just in the classroom, but at games, events and everywhere in between.

FSU felt like the right fit from the moment I stepped on campus. It had everything I was looking for: strong academics, a supportive community and a campus culture that made me feel right at home.

What are some of your academic achievements while at FSU?

One of my greatest accomplishments during my time at FSU was my IDEA Grant project. Assisting in Professor Hickner’s lab for almost two years has taught me so much and working with postmenopausal women in the lab has been an incredible experience. As I got to know more about the challenges they face during this stage of life, I realized I was inspired. My mom, who is currently perimenopausal, opened up about her sleep issues, and that is how my IDEA Grant project came to life.

My IDEA Grant project is titled “The Impact of Exercise on Physiological and Psychological Indicators of Sleep Quality in Pre-Diabetic Postmenopausal Women.” We are especially curious to see whether their biological data aligns with how they feel, or if there are any discrepancies. I am really hopeful that our findings can make a difference. Menopausal women are such an understudied group, and I am proud to be working on something that could potentially help improve their quality of life.

How do you serve the FSU community?

My most meaningful community service experience has been co-founding New Horizons Network, a program aimed at helping the jobless population of Tallahassee. What has really made this experience meaningful are the conversations I have had with the people we serve. Hearing their stories, how their lives took unexpected turns and how hard they are working to get back on their feet has been incredibly moving.

One moment that really stuck with me was working with a Jamaican immigrant who came to the U.S. chasing the American dream but faced unexpected challenges that led to homelessness. He was actually the very first person we got to help through our program. A few weeks later, he returned to the Kearney Center wearing his new Waffle House uniform and gave us both a big hug, thanking us for helping him get back on his feet.

That moment reminded me why this work matters. I truly believe New Horizons Network has the potential to change lives. Not only are we helping people find jobs and regain stability, but we are also creating space for conversations that break down harmful stigmas surrounding joblessness.

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Emily Shiel is a generous and driven doctoral student who dedicates her time to research and giving back to her community.

As a leader in the Biomedical Sciences Graduate Student Association, Shiel creates a supportive environment for other graduate students and volunteers with the Tallahassee Science Festival every fall.

She has received a Predoctoral Individual National Research Service Award from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and a Predoctoral Fellowship Award from the American Heart Association for her research on immune signaling in cardiac diseases. Shiel presented her research to Florida legislators and scientists at the 2025 Rare Disease Day symposium.

What drew you to attend Florida State University?

I chose to attend Florida State University because of its strong biomedical sciences program, collaborative research environment and supportive faculty. I was drawn to FSU’s opportunities to engage in cutting-edge cardiovascular research and its emphasis on translating science to increase public understanding. The welcoming atmosphere at FSU made it clear that I could thrive in my academic and personal life.

What are your proudest academic accomplishments?

My most significant academic accomplishments include receiving a National Institutes of Health Predoctoral Individual National Research Service Award from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and a Predoctoral Fellowship Award from the American Heart Association. These competitive and prestigious grants not only supported my dissertation research but also recognized the significance of my work on immune signaling in cardiac diseases. Receiving these awards has been an honor and recognition of my potential as an independent scientist.

How do you give back to your community?

In 2025, I presented my research on the impact of inflammatory signaling in heart diseases at the Rare Disease Day symposium hosted by the College of Medicine’s Institute for Pediatric Rare Diseases before an audience that included scientists, Florida legislators and individuals living with rare diseases. This experience taught me to translate complex biomedical findings into language accessible to the public while also emphasizing the importance of continued investment in rare disease research. Sharing my work in this setting highlighted both the human impact of scientific discovery and the role researchers play in advocating for patients and their families.

How have you seen the impact of your community service?

Through my research, I have contributed to FSU’s reputation as a hub for innovative cardiovascular science, advancing knowledge that will improve patient outcomes. I have disseminated my findings at national conferences. Beyond the lab, my leadership in the Biomedical Sciences Graduate Student Association has fostered a more inclusive and supportive environment for graduate students. Through BSGSA, I work to foster a love for science in K-12 students by participating as a judge in the Capital Regional Science & Engineering Fair and volunteering at the Tallahassee Science Festival each fall.

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Kennedy Hewitt is committed to making public health more accessible through community service and leadership. Her outreach efforts have helped connect Florida State University students and residents to better health resources.

As a graduate and teaching assistant in the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy’s Public Health program, Hewitt helps students navigate their academic paths. She helped organize the Public Health Professions Conference, which brought together over 300 students and professionals from across Florida to share ideas and build connections.

Through Ability 1st, a nonprofit that supports people with disabilities, Hewitt helped build wheelchair ramps across Tallahassee. She also collaborated with the Department of Urban & Regional Planning to develop a cultural resource center for the Frenchtown community.

Why did you choose to attend Florida State University?

From the moment I toured the campus, I knew Florida State University was where I was meant to be. The welcoming community and opportunities for growth immediately stood out to me. FSU’s commitment to innovation, leadership and service inspired me to push myself and pursue my passions. After completing my bachelor’s degree, I wanted to continue learning, growing and making an impact, which led me to apply to the Master of Public Health program. This program has empowered me to become a stronger advocate for health equity and community well-being.

What have been your most valuable academic experiences?

Serving on the planning team for FSU’s annual Public Health Professions Conference has strengthened my leadership, collaboration and professional skills. I managed finances, outreach, sponsorships and promotion of the event to ensure a strong turnout and engagement. This experience enhanced my organization and communication skills while teaching me how collaboration is essential to public health education.

I worked on an interdisciplinary project with the Department of Urban & Regional Planning to develop a new cultural resource center for the Frenchtown community. Our team partnered with local leaders and residents to build a center that reflects the community’s heritage, needs and future. This project taught me the importance of community-based planning and inclusive public health initiatives. These experiences were instrumental in shaping my commitment to fostering equity, sustainability and empowerment within the communities I serve.

How have you given back to your community?

I serve the Tallahassee community through leadership and volunteering that reflect my passion for health equity. As treasurer of the Master of Public Health Student Association, I managed the budget and coordinated volunteer events, socials and professional development seminars.

Volunteering with Ability 1st reinforced my belief in the importance of accessibility and inclusion. I also worked at the Florida Department of Health in the STD Surveillance section as a data analyst, where I completed a 10-year epidemiological study on trends of congenital syphilis across the state of Florida. I examined patterns of race and ethnicity, if there was any drug use present, and if these cases could have been prevented. I helped the STD Surveillance team conclude why we are seeing this increase in cases and how we can make an impact.

These experiences have strengthened my leadership and deepened my commitment to serving others.

How have you seen the impact of your work on the Tallahassee community?

As a graduate assistant, I worked with the accreditation coordinator to collect and analyze data that supports continuous improvement of FSU’s public health programs. My work helped enhance academic standards and ensure future students receive a rigorous education.

As a teaching assistant, I mentor and assist undergraduate students, helping them understand complex public health concepts, guiding them through coursework and encouraging their academic and professional growth. I have created an inclusive and supportive learning environment that encourages student success. My involvement in community projects, such as volunteering with Ability 1st and collaborating with the Frenchtown community, has strengthened ties between FSU and the local community. These experiences reflect my dedication to advancing education, equity and public service, while upholding the values that make FSU a leader in academic excellence.

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For Dev Sangha, a biological science student at Florida State University, it was strong academics and ample research opportunities that drew him to join the FSU community.

Both an IDEA Grant recipient and participant in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), Sangha has made sure to use any academic opportunities that will help him reach his highest potential. When he is not busy in the lab formulating heart tissue research devices or working as an FSU chemistry learning assistant, Sangha spends his time volunteering at the Big Bend Hospice and Alzheimer’s Project.

From his first visit, Sangha recognized that FSU allows students to grow both academically and personally by offering new experiences.

Why did you choose to attend FSU?

When I first visited FSU, I felt a strong sense of belonging and knew that I wanted to be a part of this amazing community. I was initially drawn to the strong academics and research opportunities, specifically the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP). This program was the perfect fit for me as I wanted to continue researching when I got to college. FSU seemed like more than just a school to me; I saw it as an environment where I would be able to get involved, create new experiences and grow in both academic and personal aspects. 

What is your most significant academic achievement?

My time at the Solís Lab, where Principal Investigator and Assistant Professor Christopher Solís and I have been working on two innovative heart tissue research devices, has been significant for me. Our goal is to better understand the properties of heart tissue for the development of research in cardiovascular health, as the mechanical properties of heart tissue change with disease.  

This summer, I received FSU’s IDEA Grant to support the development of these devices. With the ideation and great mentorship of Chrostopher Solís, I created the physical and digital designs of the devices. I applied my technical skills in circuit board development, programming, prototyping and 3D computer-aided design using FSU’s access to Autodesk Fusion 360 to create the devices. I relied on the FSU Innovation Hub’s 3D printing center to print the designs for prototyping. Both devices have patents in process and I am listed as a co-inventor. I continue to innovate in the biomedical space by improving our current designs and developing new devices to improve the health of the heart. 

How have you supported the FSU community?

One of my most meaningful contributions beyond the classroom has been my time helping other students succeed through my work as a Chemistry Learning Assistant. In arguably one of the most challenging core science courses, I help students problem-solve and understand complex material both inside and outside of the classroom. My goal as a Chemistry Learning Assistant is to foster an environment where students are comfortable asking questions and feel heard. I was in their shoes not long ago, so I know how it feels to be overwhelmed about chemistry. My previous experiences and struggles in this class have given me the perspective that I need to support the students with empathy and understanding. This role has helped me grow as both a mentor and an educator. I find it extremely rewarding to support FSU’s academic community while watching students gain confidence and thrive. 

Share your most impactful service experience.

Providing support for senior adults, especially those with memory loss or nearing the end of life, has been deeply meaningful to me. In Tallahassee, I have contributed through volunteering at the Big Bend Hospice and Alzheimer’s Project. At the Alzheimer’s Project, I provide company and engage in activities with individuals living with Alzheimer’s, giving caregivers a much-needed respite. At the Big Bend Hospice, I provide at-home respite and help for the family during end-of-life care. I am so privileged to be able to help families during this emotional and difficult transition period. Through my work as a volunteer, I have built many meaningful relationships with members of the Tallahassee community who are in need, most notably the patients I provide care for and their families. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to service and allowed me to give back to the community. 

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