Nowoola is a researcher and doctoral student passionate about exploring childhood trauma, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and racial/ethnic identity development in marginalized adolescents and student-athletes. His work centers on understanding how systemic inequities and early adversity shape identity, mental health, career readiness and transition. Nowoola is a recipient of the NCAA Graduate Student Research Grant and a former Division-I football athlete at Villanova University. He is pursuing his Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision. 

We, the Black Muslim Collective, nominate Yasmin Bahiru because she consistently goes above and beyond in her dedication to being the event planner for our organization. She consistently puts her all into everything she does, no matter the inconvenience; she is always the first to step up when help is needed.

Yasmin goes out of her way to plan and execute the many events BMC has to offer, such as fundraiser events and bake sales, which contribute to the success of our organization. Her reliability, commitment, and positive energy are what make her an invaluable board member, and the passion she has for our club sets her apart as an outstanding leader and contributor.

Asmita Baskar has demonstrated sustained academic and service excellence in our department since she joined us in the summer of 2024. Her research has been recognized by three academic conferences in the past year, and her emphasis on social justice and sustainable design practices position her as a leader for the future of interior design.

In her previous role on an Inpatient Psychiatric Unit at a Children’s Hospital, Brianna Boggs asked, “How is it possible to provide adequate care to children if systems surrounding them (e.g., family, school, the justice system) do not support the continuity of that care?” This question led her to Virginia Commonwealth University, where she is currently a third-year doctoral student pursuing a degree in Clinical Psychology on the Child/Adolescent track under the mentorship of Dr. Michael Southam-Gerow, and is involved with The Center for Evidence-Based Partnerships in Virginia (CEP-VA).

After completing her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Spelman College in Atlanta, GA, and a master's degree in Psychology in Education from Teachers College, Columbia University, Brianna found herself struck by issues within the systems of care, which in turn have shaped her research interests to broadly aim to understand ways to improve mental health service delivery systems for youth and their families. Within CEP-VA, she has been involved in providing the state of Virginia with scientific input on its behavioral health system surrounding (a) quality assurance and financing strategies of an intervention for the first episode of psychosis (CSC) and (b) recommendations on ways to reduce barriers to the implementation of Qualified Mental Health Professionals in their behavioral health workforce.

Brianna aims to use her studies to understand how policy influences systemic challenges for youth and families, intending to bridge the gap between researchers, policymakers, and community partners.

It is with pleasure that the School of Social Work nominates Terreal Brown. Terreal's professor has shared the following:

"I am delighted to nominate Mr. Terreal Brown for the Carter C. Woodson Award for Academic Excellence. Mr. Brown enrolled at Virginia Commonwealth University in the baccalaureate social work program in the spring 2025 semester as a transfer student from Brightpoint Community College, Midlothian, Virginia, where he earned an Associate of Applied Sciences with a cumulative grade point average equal to 3.918 in Human Services with a pre-social work focus. Since enrolling at VCU, Mr. Brown has earned Dean’s List distinction every semester and currently has a 3.75 grade point average. He is on track to graduate from the baccalaureate program in May 2026.

Mr. Brown’s professional interest in social work lies in the use of technology to address issues of loneliness, depression, and social isolation through tabletop role-playing games that are popular with youth and young adults. To this end, Mr. Brown has already created an organization, Weavers Circle, to develop, refine, and eventually deliver interventions to address loneliness, depression, and social isolation. I believe his interest in the use of technology to address these concerns in a way that resonates with young people could be a significant contribution to social work practice. Mr. Brown is closely aligned to the goals and mission of the social work profession and identifies completely with the values and ethics of our profession—he is guided by these as he contemplates his future career in the service of those who are marginalized and often unable to access services and resources necessary to resolve their issues. I have no doubt he will endeavor to focus his work, in part, to address these shortcomings.

In my class, Mr. Brown distinguished himself by his excellent grasp and mastery of the material—his understanding of statistical concepts was at an advanced graduate level and as a result, his ability to identify implications and make applications of findings to social work practice was way ahead of the typical undergraduate student. He was a thoughtful student, engaging with the material and actively involved in class through questions and comments during our sessions. His work was the best in the class and one of the best examples of work in this class across all many times I have taught it. In fact, his mastery of this material was so strong, I requested a meeting with him to explore his future plans for earning an advanced degree and to explore his professional career goals. At that time, I indicated my belief he had the clear capacity to not only earn a graduate degree, but to continue on to a doctoral education, if he so chose to do so. I can think of no one else more deserving of this recognition than Mr. Terreal Brown."

The advertising faculty of the Robertson School of Communication proudly nominates Aazizah Bryan. "Z" is a junior in our program, pursuing a dual concentration degree of creative and strategic advertising. Z is a standout student, highly engaged, hardworking and collaborative. She's a fast leaner and is always one of the first to volunteer her thoughts during class critiques and discussions. Her thinking is insightful and work is strong. We believe Z will continue to excel in our program and beyond.

I am truly excited to recommend Aya for the *Carter G. Woodson Awards for Academic Excellence. As a second-year PhD student in the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Social Work, she represents exactly what this award stands for: academic dedication paired with meaningful, community-centered impact.

Even though she is still in the most course-heavy stage of her doctoral program, Aya always makes room for work that reaches beyond the classroom. She doesn’t just talk about community engagement, she lives it. When Hurricane Melissa impacted communities in Jamaica, Aya stepped up to organize fundraising efforts, rallying support and resources for those affected. Her response was immediate, thoughtful, and rooted in genuine care. Additionally, Aya's emerging research which seeks to understand and address the barriers to education in Jamaica, is particularly important given the ways educational institutions function not only as sites of learning but also as powerful social networks that determine access to opportunities and advancement.


Within the School of Social Work, Aya serves as Co-Chair of the Racial Justice Task Force Fellowship, and her leadership has been both steady and inspiring. Through her work with RAACE, she has helped host multiple Stop the Bleed trainings, ensuring that students and community members are equipped with practical, life-saving skills. She has also helped create space for deeper reflection and growth by organizing workshops on imposter syndrome through an intersectional lens, and conversations about interdisciplinary collaboration and culturally responsive practice. One of the things that stands out most is her commitment to hosting workshops centered on care, resistance, and solidarity, reminding us that collective work must also nurture the people doing it.

What makes Aya especially impactful is how intentional she is. She leads with care. She listens deeply. She thinks critically. Her leadership is grounded in relationships and authenticity, and people feel that when they work with her. She has a way of bringing others along with her, building community while pushing for meaningful change. Her community and relationship-centered approach is felt so much that her peer, doctoral candidate, Reem Shawkat, is the one who initiated and wrote most of this submission.

Aya hopes to become a strong advocate for marginalized communities within the field of mental health, particularly for those who are often unheard or overlooked. Watching the way she already shows up, I have no doubt she will do exactly that and more. Her drive, compassion, and work ethic point toward a future of powerful impact well beyond her time in academia. For all of these reasons, I wholeheartedly recommend Aya for the Carter G. Woodson Award for Academic Excellence.

Kalani Coleman is a fashion merchandising student and creative strategist pursuing a Bachelor of Arts at Virginia Commonwealth University. Her work centers on representation and self-expression through storytelling, using branding, sustainability, and visual direction to highlight diverse perspectives and foster meaningful connections within fashion and creative spaces. She currently serves as a Student Director for the VCUarts Fashion Show and previously co-founded a club organization Vintage Threads at VCU, where she acted as Media Chair and led creative initiatives rooted in community and personal style. Passionate about amplifying voices and building inclusive platforms, Kalani uses fashion and visual media as powerful tools for impactful storytelling and creative expression.

In their time at Virginia Commonwealth University, Carter Collins has made prodigious steps towards their creative and academic ambitions. Carter's work has been featured and sold in numerous art galleries and exhibitions across the RVA area, such as Passion Project Art Collective and the Petersburg Area Art League. Their work has also been recognized internationally through their two-time reception of the 9th place Behind the Scenes prize for video editing and animation by the 24 Hours Animation Contest for Students.

Their art and animation exemplifies what it means to lead by your own singularity - that, despite what you have been through, you have a right to be your authentic self. They lead by example by hosting local events about expressing personal and creative desire, creating animated short films and shows about purpose and identity, and holding lectures for the Animation Club at VCU as the current Vice President.

Carter aims to create a world where no one feels unseen, and no heart remains broken - that, even when it feels impossible, happiness can still break through."

Student Doctor Rosalie "Daphne" Essimi-Menye is another bright example of one of our student leaders in the School of Dentistry who has volunteered many hours while maintaining a heavy workload. Daphne is a very positive, helpful and respectful student learner. She has been heavily involved in serving her class as a class officer for multiple years. I have gotten to know her well during the years she has been an active member of the VCU Chapter of the Student National Dental Association (SNDA). I serve as one of the faculty advisors. Daphne has worked hard as the Community Outreach Chair and makes herself available for numerous community outreach events. Her involvement with planning their annual community Oral Cancer Walk has been invaluable. She is a solid student and is always willing to lend a helping hand. I am very happy to be able to nominate her for this recognition.

Benayas Debela is an exceptional VCU Biomedical Engineering student with a passion for discovery, research and medicine. Benayas has sustained academic excellence while being an accomplished biomedical researcher, and a leader in student organizations, academic collaborations and extracurricular projects. As a Research Assistant in the Musculoskeletal Tissue Engineering Lab since Fall 2024, Benayas investigates the spatial differentiation of tendon cells within the ligament-to-bone attachment. He is also a member of the Kappa Gamma chapter of Theta Tau. With his fraternity, he has run several community focused initiatives such as the first-ever afterschool STEM Camp at Barack Obama Elementary and the Theta Tau Mutual Aid Drive in partnership with RVA Community Fridges. His impactful work led him to run and be elected as the Service Director of Theta Tau, where he coordinates initiatives focused on professional development and philanthropy. His achievements mark him as an example of Black excellence at VCU, consistently going above and beyond to impact his community positively.

Elena Espinal is a rigorous, creative, and adventurous designer. Her faculty have been impressed by her willingness to tackle complex challenges in her work. Ever present in studio, she brings a positive energy, a strong work ethic and an enthusiasm that spills out and bolsters her community. She has balanced her design studies admirably with her investment in VCU cheerleading, managing her time and her energy in ways that establish her as a role model for her colleagues.

The Department of Graphic Design is proud to recognize Sol Feseha, sophomore, as a recipient of the Carter G. Woodson Awards for Academic Excellence. Sol brings an insightful and confident presence to her cohort, earning deep respect from her peers for the thoughtfulness she brings to every discussion and critique. A former Computer Science major at the College of William & Mary, she applies an analytical lens to her creative practice, producing work that is reflective, meticulously crafted, and executed to the highest standards. Sol exemplifies academic excellence through her discipline, intellectual depth, and intentional approach to design, and we are proud to celebrate her continued growth and achievement.

As a senior in the Bachelors in Urban and Regional Studies program, Ms. Fierro-Jefferson has excelled both inside and outside of the classroom. In addition to high quality course work, she has shown leadership on campus as an intern with RamBikes, where she has helped to raise awareness about bicycle safety and sustainable transportation events, and successfully advocated for a new bike rack in the West Cary Street parking deck. She is currently serving as a Virginia Capitol Semester Intern and also has worked as a Substitute Teacher for Chesterfield County Schools.

Since her first year, Esse has served as a teaching assistant for the Master's-level Applied Data Analysis course each spring semester, mentoring graduate students in advanced analytical methods and SAS use. She continues to mentor new and continuing PhD Students. Her dedication to both academic excellence and scholarly contribution has been recognized through the competitive Graduate Student Dissertation Assistantship award.

Under the guidance of her advisor, Dr. Arcan, Esse has developed expertise in nutritional epidemiology and dietary acculturation; her thesis work focuses on developing a dietary acculturation scale for West African immigrants in the United States. As she approaches graduation this May, she plans to continue advancing this important research area while transitioning into professional practice, bridging the gap between academic inquiry and practical applications in public health nutrition.

Gabrielle is double majoring in Economics and Finance with a minor in Information Systems. She has accumulated almost two years of experience working as an Investment Intern at VCU Investment Management Company, where her work has included financial analysis, modeling, and investment research. Gabrielle is a dedicated and engaged student, as evidenced by consistent recognition on the Dean's List for her excellent academic performance.

Ms. Hall is an extraordinary student. Her ability to combine different theoretical traditions in order to see literature in a new way is extraordinary.

Lauren is a truly exceptional student whose intellectual curiosity informs her critical analysis and her meaningful contributions to class. She is also incredibly compassionate and respectful of her classmate’s perspectives and experiences.

Alexandra is an excellent student (4.0 GPA) with a POLI major and SOCY minor. She does exemplary work not only in the classroom, but is quite active in various extracurricular activities (including: VCU Votes; Election Day Reporter for the Capital News Service; and Political Science Alliance Club). Currently, she is an undergraduate research fellow, assisting faculty regarding the VCU Civil Rights Study Away course experience. She is, in the words of one of the nominating faculty, "standout in every way."

Nichole is a graduate student in the History MA program, currently completing a thesis on the role of women in Malcolm X's life, thought, and activism. Nicole served as a graduate teaching assistant for one of Professor Ryan Smith's undergraduate classes. In this role, Nichole played a central part in class assessment and served as an inspiring role model for the students. She pushed the students to aspire for great things from their studies while offering clear advice and support. In her own research and in her support for undergraduate students, she embodies the kind of academic excellence and commitment to service that these awards seek to celebrate.

The Department of Photography and Film is proud to recognize Tahlia Hightower for their exceptional dedication to our learning community and their own growth as an artist. Tahlia is an incredibly hard worker characterized by an unwavering drive to push the boundaries of their craft and content. Beyond the studio, Tahlia has emerged as an important leader within their cohort, spearheading initiatives such as print sales, photo booth events, and student exhibitions. This commitment to the arts community recently extended into the professional sphere through an internship at 1708 Gallery, one of Richmond’s most prestigious art nonprofits, and their inclusion in the annual Black Art Student Empowerment (BASE) juried exhibition, "Black Fidelity: Crafted in the Storm." With each iteration of a project, Tahlia finds new progress, continually challenging themselves both formally and conceptually while remaining grounded in an authentic search for self-representation.

Describing themselves as both a "Visual Poet" Tahlia’s work bravely navigates the difficult terrain of trauma, utilizing self-portraiture and photographic collage to explore the journey of destruction and reconstruction. By integrating the symbolism of the spider, they create a visual metaphor for the transformation that occurs when one confronts the past in order to heal. This has led to an exciting technical evolution where Tahlia is now constructing worlds not just within the frame, but out of the physical materials themselves—notably through the tactile act of sewing collages. It has been inspiring for the faculty to witness Tahlia’s spirit and their "why not?" approach to experimentation.

From the Department of Periodontics, submitted by Luciano Andrada

Ria Holloman is the current President of the Student National Dental Association (SNDA) and has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to both clinical learning and the empowerment of underrepresented voices in the dental profession. Her nomination recognizes her ability to balance a rigorous academic workload with impactful advocacy. Under her leadership, the SNDA has expanded its outreach initiatives, bridging the gap between high-level dental education and community service. Ria embodies the legacy of Carter G. Woodson through her dedication to maintain a high standard of excellence in her dental studies, guiding the SNDA toward inclusive excellence and professional development for its members and promoting oral health equity. Ria’s peers and faculty alike recognize her as someone who does not just excel individually but elevates everyone around her.

From the School of Dentistry, submitted by Paula L. Coates

Student Doctor Ria Holloman is a member of the Class of 2026, VCU School of Dentistry. A proud graduate of North Carolina A & T University, I have had the privilege of knowing her since she arrived to the School of Dentistry in 2022. Ria has performed well in her course work while finding time to devote to service and leadership roles. She has been involved with the VCU Chapter of The Student National Dental Association (SNDA) since her Freshman year. (I serve as one of the Faculty Advisors). She has volunteered to serve in various roles including Secretary, President-Elect and currently Chapter President. She also serves on the National level as a SNDA Region 1 Representative. She has also been involved in additional organizations within the School of Dentistry such as the VCU Tooth Wigglers and have served as a Community Service Chair. Ria has helped to coordinate and organize our annual Oral Cancer Walk for the VCU SNDA Chapter. I appreciate her sweet demeanor, respectful nature, her attention to detail and her love of serving her community. She is an example of VCU's "best and brightest"!

Dr. Jennifer Hunter is a second year pediatric dental resident, and currently one of the Chief Residents of the program. Dr. Hunter entered our residency program after 8 years of private practice, committed to expand her knowledge, gain expertise and specialize in pediatric dentistry. Since she began the program, Dr. Hunter has been a shining example of professionalism, collaboration, leadership and compassionate care for the patients and families we serve. Dr. Hunter was selected for this program not only based on her competitive credentials, but the values and desires she expressed to change oral health outcomes that affect the most vulnerable population of children. From her personal statement, in her own words, Dr. Hunter says "...my hope to continue to diversify dentistry in a way that helps address oral health disparities in communities of color will always be significant and incredibly personal. A pediatric dental residency program will prepare me to advocate the mission of providing children with positive experiences and enhancing oral health outcomes..."
I cannot think of a resident more deserving of this honor in the spirit of Carter G. Woodson.

Faris is a sophomore Computer Science student at VCU with interests in software engineering and data science. He works as a Research Assistant in Radiochemistry & Spectroscopy, aiding in the development of neural models to analyze Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) data.

Beyond the classroom and laboratory, Faris is one of the most impactful members of the VCU chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). When he joined as a freshman, he was reserved and still finding his voice. However, in just one academic year, he transformed into a confident leader and invaluable asset to our chapter. His growth was so profound that he was awarded Freshman of the Year in recognition of his dedication to NSBE’s mission of promoting more Black engineers!

Faris did not slow down after receiving this recognition. He still consistently attends every chapter event, is often the first to volunteer, and continually challenges himself to grow and build meaningful connections. He embodies grit and resilience. His journey reflects not only personal growth, but a deep commitment to exemplifying Black excellence in every space he enters.

A great way to describe Jazmine is "intentional." Jazmine has been an invaluable member of the art education community as a student, TA, and co-director of our community arts programs. Jazmine brings thoughtful consideration to everything she does, whether it's assignments and lesson planning, engaging with other art education students' teaching, or planning for our community programs. Jazmine always serves as a voice championing students' interests and needs.

Jordan Johnson has served as the Community Service Chair for Black Men in Medicine VCU for the past two years. During this time, he has organized multiple community cleanups and service initiatives while playing a foundational role in mentoring underrepresented students pursuing careers in healthcare.

Jordan also founded an after-school mentoring and tutoring program at George Washington Carver Elementary School, where members of Black Men in Medicine serve as role models, mentors, and academic resources for local youth. Through this initiative, he has helped create meaningful pathways for the next generation to envision themselves in medicine, and other professions.

As an aspiring physician, Jordan is committed to making an impact that extends beyond the clinical setting. He exemplifies the belief that medicine is not confined to patient care alone, but includes uplifting and serving the surrounding community.

Wren is a History major and Religious Studies minor [with a 3.2 overall GPA]. Wren shows great sensitivity to how historical change has affected different populations differently. Wren is widely read and conversant on an inspiring range of topics. In one of Wren's most exciting projects for one of Professor Ryan Smith's classes, they offered a deeply-researched profile of a historically Black church in northern Virginia. Wren showed how this congregation navigated segregation, the civil rights movement, and modern prison ministry outreach, fruitfully analyzing it in light of the arguments of W. E. B. DuBois and James Cone regarding the political power of Black Christianity. At the same time, Wren contrasted these elements with the congregation's simultaneous engagement with prosperity gospel ideas, showing how such Christians have balanced attention to urgent social needs alongside aspirations for wealth. Wren models an admirable, authentic approach in their studies, connected to historical communities but not bounded by them.

Milo is a young actor who has demonstrated tremendous promise in the profession. His work onstage is magnetic and powerful, and a natural result of the dedication he has demonstrated across all four years of TheatreVCU's BFA program. Working with Milo feels like being in the room with a future colleague - he is curious, willing to take risks, thoughtful, and sees every class as an opportunity to cultivate beginner's mind and make new discoveries. Milo has played major roles in departmental productions, including Twelfth Night, The Wild Party, and A Chorus Line, and is part of Black Brown and Honey, one of TheatreVCU's celebrated improv teams.

It is with pleasure that the School of Social Work nominates Lydia Kahn. Lydia's professor has shared the following:

"Lydia was in my 602 class in fall of 2024. I saw her grow in her understanding of macro social work throughout the semester, and she was very engaged with the content, especially as a student whose goal was to complete the clinical track. Her work was excellent and she contributed interesting, insightful, and valuable input during our class discussions. She has continued her outstanding performance as she's made her way through the program."

James Lambert is a fourth-year doctoral student at the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs, with a passion for uplifting his community economically. He is a former Sergeant in the U.S. Army. At the Wilder School, he has served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant and adjunct instructor. He has also served as a Research Assistant at the Center for Public Policy and at the RVA Eviction Lab. His research interests include reentry and rehabilitation programming, recidivism, affordable housing, and economic development. James is also a serial entrepreneur who loves both learning and teaching about entrepreneurship, finances, economics, urban development, and prisoner reentry. One of his organizations, Dollars N Sense, is dedicated to teaching financial literacy to youth in Central Virginia and has impacted over 1,000 students. Another organization founded by James, Felons First Housing, was dedicated to helping returning citizens find housing and achieve greater economic mobility. James has earned a Bachelor's in Economics from Old Dominion University, a Master's Degree in Real Estate from Virginia Commonwealth University, and a Master's Degree in Finance from Virginia Commonwealth University.

The Department of Forensic Science is honored to nominate Kevin Lester for the Carter G. Woodson Award. Kevin is a senior on the Forensic Chemistry track in the Department. He is known as a gentle leader in the Laboratory for Forensic Toxicology Research (LFTR), where he has worked on multiple projects for 3 years. He is smart, kind, thoughtful, great at providing feedback and is not afraid to speak up, even when it may be uncomfortable. When Kevin first joined the team 3 years ago, he quickly learned instruments and protocols and completed a project in the first 6 months of being in the lab. He presented that study at PittCon, one of the largest analytical chemistry conferences in the United States, where he represented the team and VCU exceptionally well. He presented confidently, enthusiastically, and convincingly. He engaged with colleagues and networked like a professional. Kevin helps a significant research initiative analyzing vapes that get confiscated in schools across Virginia. While working on that, he is also leading the evaluation of novel products available to children - both how the devices work and their chemical composition. He presented this study at the American Academy of Forensic Sciences conference in New Orleans. Because of his investment, he is a co-author on a manuscript under review. Kevin is steady and optimistic, a problem solver and encourager - he is a promising leader in all the communities he serves.

She has always strived to be excellent in everything she does. Specifically academics, as she has always pushed herself to get the highest grades. Since middle school, her GPA has never been lower than 4.0. Amanda also makes a conscious effort to perform every task she does to the highest standard.

Brianna Marshall is a first year PhD student in the Department of Epidemiology and a Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) Doctoral Scholars Program Fellow. She received an MPH from Eastern Virginia Medical School in 2025. This year she was awarded the American Public Health Association Women’s Caucus Highest Scoring Abstract award for her oral presentation “Racial Disparities in Cervical Cancer Prevalence in the South Atlantic Region: A Cross-Sectional Analysis.” She is a graduate research assistant on Dr. Zimmerman’s NIH grant “A Virginia Patient Engagement Resource Center to Improve Substance Use Treatment Interventions” that focuses on improving treatment interventions based on the lived experience of individuals with substance use disorder. She is currently leading a project to collect and analyze qualitative data on the impact of providing peer support to the project’s panel of people in recovery and collaborating on creating project surveys and arts-based workshops. Brianna brings a strong collegial spirit to her collaborations.

Jaden McKenzie is a visionary artist whose practice is marked by soulful inquiry, quiet dedication, and expansive creative vision. His deep passion and thoughtful engagement inspire his peers and enrich the Department of Sculpture + Extended Media. Jaden's installation in the 2025 Capstone Exhibition demonstrated his artistic integrity and intellectual curiosity. In recognition of his outstanding work, he was selected by his faculty and awarded a scholarship to attend the 31st International Sculpture Conference in Dallas, TX. His commitment to artistic excellence and academic growth exemplifies the spirit of the Carter G. Woodson Award.

Violet T. Monet is a student in the Honors college dedicated to serving her community at VCU and in Richmond. She served as treasurer for the Black Psychology Student Association on campus for two years, and is currently the co-president. She has volunteered at Peter Paul Development Center as a teacher’s aide, and presently volunteers at the Belmont Food Pantry. Her goals are to continue her education in graduate school for creative writing, and discover new ways to engage her community.

Darin Moton is a dedicated community leader, servant-scholar, and founder of the Unity & Action Organization, a student-led service initiative committed to uplifting Black communities across Richmond, Chesterfield, and Petersburg. His work spans youth mentorship, shelter support, water and snack-bag distributions, school supply drives, and outdoor community service projects that consistently center purpose, empathy, and empowerment.

Darin has led multiple high-impact initiatives, including organizing Thanksgiving meal packages for families in need. His service also includes consistent volunteer mobilization, partnerships with youth centers and shelters, and hands-on support for underserved neighborhoods.

Rooted in his values of prosperity, positivity, and patience and strengthened by his experiences as an Army Veteran and student leader Darin’s work reflects a deep commitment to Pan-African unity, mental health advocacy, and ensuring Black families have access to essential resources and community support.

From Tina William, Richmond NAACP

Ciara Norfleet was selected for the Carter G. Woodson Award for Academic Excellence for her sustained commitment to advancing education as a tool for critical consciousness, equity, and collective empowerment. Her academic work and community leadership reflect Dr. Woodson’s belief that education must be rooted in truth, history, and responsibility to the people.

In February 2025, Ciara founded Deeper Than Education, an initiative dedicated to addressing systemic inequities through education, advocacy, and service. Through this work, she has led efforts to donate over 600 books to Carver Elementary School, organized clothing drives, supported weekly food distributions serving more than 300 families, and developed a mentorship program for young girls that centers identity, leadership, and self-determination. She has also co-hosted educational forums on Critical Race Theory in collaboration with the Phi Delta Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. and the VCU NAACP, fostering dialogue grounded in historical analysis and social responsibility.

As 2nd Vice President and Education Chair of the VCU NAACP, Ciara has advocated for educational equity, tuition affordability, and the protection of inclusive and diverse literature, while also advancing disability and education rights. Her advocacy addresses the school-to-prison pipeline through policy awareness, community education, and IEP-focused workshops that equip families with knowledge to navigate and challenge exclusionary systems within education.

Ciara’s scholarship and leadership move beyond traditional measures of academic success to embody the spirit of Dr. Carter G. Woodson’s legacy using education to interrogate injustice, empower communities, and build pathways toward liberation.

From Jordan Hill, Richmond NAACP

Ciara Norfleet is deeply honored to be nominated by the Upsilon Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. for the Upsilon Nu Citizen of the Year Award. For Ciara, this nomination is more than recognition; it's a reminder that when someone leads with love, compassion, and purpose, their community feels it.

In March 2025, Ciara launched Deeper Than Education, an organization rooted in uplifting and empowering marginalized communities. Through this initiative, Ciara helped donate over 600 books to Carver Elementary School, organized clothing drives, supported weekly food distributions serving more than 300 families at Second Street Baptist Church, and created a mentorship program for young girls. Ciara also co-hosted a Critical Race Theory event with the Phi Delta Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and VCU NAACP to encourage meaningful dialogue around equity and understanding.

As the 2nd Vice President and Education Chair of VCU NAACP, CIara has passionately advocated for educational equity, tuition affordability, and the protection of diverse literature. Her dedication to service reflects a heart committed to community, justice, and change, making her nomination truly well-deserved

Ure Nwokoji is a senior double majoring in Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness and Criminal Justice who has distinguished herself as an exceptional scholar and campus leader. Graduating with an impressive 3.97 GPA, she has consistently demonstrated academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and professionalism in the classroom. Beyond her coursework, she has made a significant impact on campus life as a sprinter on VCU’s Cross Country and Track Club, where she serves as Vice President, and as Secretary of VCU’s chapter of the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice. Balancing rigorous academics, competitive athletics, and active organizational leadership, she also works part-time as a Sport Club Supervisor for VCU Club Sports. Ure exemplifies dedication, discipline, and service, and she will undoubtedly continue to excel as she begins graduate school next year.

Patience Obasi is a junior majoring in computer science. She is dedicated to expanding on her leadership skills and making an impact on the department. She currently serves as the secretary of the Computer Science Student Advisory Board and the vice president of Girls Who Code, where she enjoys helping create supportive environments and help plan events for students in computer science. Patience also works in engineering high school recruitment, encouraging future computer scientists and engineers to explore STEM pathways.

In addition to her involvement on campus, Patience conducts research in radioisotope production and nuclear science. She has developed an interest in how these areas intersect. After graduation, she hopes to pursue graduate study in nuclear science, building on her research and interests to make a meaningful impact in the field.

From Toyin

The “double edged sword” of medication, prescriptions, and likewise has always interested me. Coming from the city that doubles as "The City of Brotherly Love" and “Zombieland”, I’ve pursued an education in hopes of one day being able to help my community. Striving to accomplish this goal, I began my journey as a chemical engineer, with a specialization in bio/biomedical engineering. At the same time, however, I pursued a masters in pharmaceutical engineering, thanks to the “4+1” program offered by my previous institution, maintaining over a 3.5 GPA for both degrees. However, that is not all, as outside of academia and various volunteer opportunities, I stood as an executive member of my undergraduate institution's Black Student Union and later went on to win the Paul Jenning Award because I embodied "the qualities of transformational leadership". 

Now I stand here as a 3rd year PhD candidate in Pharmaceutical Engineering, the first of its kind in the nation, with the potential to be amongst the first 10 to hold this degree as I work in cancer immunotherapy, and the first Black person to do so. My research currently focuses on breast cancer and its later metastasis to organs such as the brain, which decreases the survival rate of those diagnosed. What's more, I am utilizing immune cells, which are generally known to be difficult to work with, but may hold the key to the battle against cancer/solid tumors. I hope through my research, I can contribute to an overall improved quality of life for those dealing with solid tumors and the negative effect it has. With this same passion and hope, I have had the opportunity to present my work at different poster sessions and podium presentations, such as the Walter Lawrence Research Symposium, VCU School of Pharmacy Research Day, The Commonwealth of Virginia Cancer Research Conference(CVCRC), and the general VCU Research Day, to name a few. As someone who struggles with public speaking, I was unsure if this was something I could do, but as I became more confident in my research and knowledge, I saw myself improving in my ability to communicate my research to others and confidence when presenting information. 

Keeping along the lines of being an executive member, I also served as the secretary for the Pharmaceutical Engineering GSA, where I aided in putting on the first ever PharmEng Graduate Research Symposium, and creating merchandise (cups, mugs, stickers, sweatshirts, T-shirts, etc) out-of-pocket to help with fundraising and also used as prizes for the symposium. Even after stepping down, I still receive inquiries and compliments about the items I made. When I was informed 3 months ago that I must defend within these warmer seasons, and that I would be graduating in 3 years as opposed to the programs stated "4+", I find myself juggling multiple things: I am working on my manuscript, in addition to writing my dissertation, while also working as a TA in the School of Pharmacy, taking classes, and trying to find a job in this uncertain economy. To say the process has been overwhelming would be an understatement, but I have set it in my heart to take things one step at a time and only work to think about what is within my capabilities to do and change. Furthermore, I look towards all the opportunities I had and the people I have met, either as a result of my status as a PhD student here or from my own curiosity, such as participation in activities like "Code in Place" which gave me the opportunity to learn python.

I hope to enter the world of the pharmaceutical industry with the possibility to institute changes for many, making things that positively and directly impact the lives of others. The journey hasn’t been easy, often requiring long nights, multiple simultaneous jobs, and a series of doubts, to the point of questioning if I made the right choice at all. Nevertheless, through the support of those around me and the hope to also one day encourage those that come after me, I pursued this road that sometimes felt impossible. As I continue along my journey, I hope to always keep the message in mind that what is for you is for you, and that nothing can stop the blessing God has in store, no matter how painful the climb to the top may seem.

Tyrese has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership as a member of Developing Men of Color. He approaches every responsibility with initiative, resilience, and a solutions-oriented mindset. When challenges arise, he does not hesitate; instead, he confronts them directly, evaluates the situation thoughtfully, and adapts strategically to ensure continued progress. His ability to remain composed under pressure while guiding others forward has made him a dependable and invaluable contributor to the organization. Whether responding to obstacles or stepping into new opportunities, Tyrese consistently operates with confidence, integrity, and a clear commitment to excellence.

In addition to his leadership within the organization, Tyrese has served as a powerful and authentic voice representing the Black community. He communicates in a way that resonates across diverse audiences, speaking with both relatability and conviction. Rather than positioning himself above others, he connects as a peer, fostering unity and strengthening community bonds. A clear example of this was his role as Master of Ceremony at our annual mixer, where he not only guided the event with professionalism and poise, but also cultivated an atmosphere of pride, inclusivity, and collective empowerment. His presence on that stage reflected both his confidence and his deep understanding of the responsibility that comes with representation.

Beyond his organizational and public leadership, Tyrese’s impact through the mentorship program over the past three years has been especially meaningful. His ongoing service at Fox Elementary School reflects consistency, compassion, and a genuine commitment to youth development. Through mentorship, encouragement, and positive example, he has built authentic and lasting relationships with students who view him not only as a mentor, but as a role model. His presence has inspired confidence, fostered growth, and reinforced the values of leadership and integrity that DMC strives to cultivate. Tyrese’s sustained commitment to service, representation, and community empowerment embodies the very standard of excellence this award seeks to recognize.

On behalf of the Master of Public Administration (MPA) faculty of the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University, we are proud to nominate Javion Peterson for the Carter G. Woodson Award for Academic Excellence. This nomination recognizes his outstanding academic performance, exemplary service to community and public life, and exceptional professional experiences that position him as an emerging leader in public service.

Javion Peterson is a first-year MPA student from Stafford, Virginia who has demonstrated academic excellence throughout his educational career. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies with a minor in Special Education, graduating with an undergraduate GPA exceeding 3.0. Since enrolling in the MPA program, Javion has distinguished himself as a top-performing graduate student, currently holding a 4.0 GPA. His academic success reflects not only intellectual rigor, but also a deep commitment to applying theory, research, and data-informed decision-making to real-world public challenges.

Javion is also a recipient of the L. Douglas Wilder Fellowship, a nationally recognized and highly competitive program that supports the most accomplished full-time graduate students across the Wilder School’s master’s programs. The fellowship provides professional work experience, in-state tuition and fees, and a stipend through placement with a host employer. As a Wilder Fellow at The Cameron Foundation, a private foundation supporting initiatives that benefit the residents of Petersburg, Virginia and the surrounding region, Javion contributes meaningfully to grantmaking and community-focused work centered on health equity, innovation, and systems-level impact. His responsibilities include grant summaries, portfolio reviews, project coordination, and engagement with nonprofit and community partners, experiences that demonstrate his readiness for leadership in philanthropic and public-sector environments.

Javion’s professional experience spans the public sector in which he consistently advanced priorities related to health equity, social justice, and education policy. He has served as a Legislative Assistant in the Virginia House of Delegates, supporting legislative research, constituent services, and policy analysis, and has worked closely with elected officials and staff to advance responsive and equitable governance. His background also includes service as a Youth Engagement Coach with the National Collaborative for Transformative Youth Policy, where he was selected as one of eight young adult leaders nationwide to advise organizations on youth-centered advocacy and program development.

Equally notable is Javion’s sustained commitment to service and leadership within the community. A former Exceptional Education teacher with Richmond City Public Schools, he has firsthand experience supporting students with diverse learning needs and fostering inclusive educational environments. He continues to engage in civic and community-based leadership through board service, participatory budgeting, and volunteer efforts across the Richmond region. These experiences reflect his dedication to strengthening democratic participation, building community trust, and ensuring that public institutions serve all residents equitably.

Looking ahead, Javion aspires to shape executive-level policy that promotes healthy, vibrant, and sustainable communities, with a particular focus on high-quality K–12 education and meaningful youth engagement. Through the MPA program, he is developing advanced skills he intends to leverage in service of communities and organizations throughout Virginia and beyond.

Javion Peterson exemplifies the academic excellence, leadership, and service honored by the Carter G. Woodson Award. His achievements and aspirations reflect both a strong scholarly foundation and an unwavering commitment to public good. We offer our highest recommendation and believe he is exceptionally deserving of this recognition.

Sincerely,
Faculty of the Master of Public Administration Program
L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs
Virginia Commonwealth University

The recipient is a proud member of the Eta Tau Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, an organization that upholds scholarship as one of its core pillars. She consistently exemplifies this value, not only through her unwavering dedication to the business of our chapter but also through her outstanding performance in the classroom. She maintains an admirable balance between her academic responsibilities and her commitment to chapter work. Her work ethic is unmatched; she invests countless hours and consistently achieves the results she strives for. Our organization could not have selected a more qualified individual for this award.

It is with pleasure that the School of Social Work nominates Rayelle Ross. Rayelle's professor has shared the following:

"Rayelle Ross came to VCU after serving children, youth and their families as a clinical social worker. She had a lot of questions about the ways that community-level issues impacted the wellbeing of those she served, but had little guidance about community-level interventions that would incorporate all of these factors into her practice. She also experienced frustration with the way that communities were not involved in the research or intervention development intended to support them. Rayelle came to VCU's PhD in Social Work program to learn the skills and gain the tools necessary to change this. Since moving here, Rayelle has built deep and lasting relationships with community partners in Richmond - working to support their capacity to meet their own community's needs. She plays and coaches basketball, serving as a role model and community member. And she has worked on a national participatory action research initiative to design a study and change effort to address the needs of unaccompanied youth experiencing homelessness. Rayelle is passionate and drive, while remaining grounded in the importance of relationships and centering people's humanity. I have no doubt she will achieve the goals she set out to when coming to VCU, and it has been my pleasure to work and learn alongside of her."

The Department of Graphic Design is proud to recognize Jaden Rowson, senior, as a recipient of the Carter G. Woodson Awards for Academic Excellence. A Graphic Design major with a minor in African American Studies, Jaden balances a full academic load with an expansive creative life beyond the classroom, where his ambition and entrepreneurial drive set him apart. As the founder of his fashion brand, Nrated, and through his community engagement initiatives—including a solo exhibition at ArtWorks—he demonstrates a commitment to using design as a platform for connection and impact. Jaden’s energy and work ethic continue to shape both his creative practice and the broader community he engages.

Leslie Scott-Jones' contributions to the Theatre Department's ongoing production of The Bacchae are making a significant impact.
As a cultural consultant on Yorùbá Traditions, she is ensuring our performance respects and celebrates African spirituality in a meaningful way. Leslie is going above and beyond by sharing invaluable resources like the New World Black Gods text and has already provided a presentation on cultural significance.

She is teaching the cast important prayers and chants for Esu and Ogun, providing both original Yoruba and phonetic translations, which is helping us create an authentic ritual atmosphere. Her ability to blend academic knowledge with practical application is enriching the experience for all our students.

She truly embodies the excellence this award aims to recognize!

Amily's passion for science and dedication towards improving the community make her an apt candidate for this award. Beyond excellence in the classroom, Amily has showcased a high aptitude for undergraduate research. Additionally, they have served in multiple executive positions within the VCU student group PRIME which is geared towards empowering underrepresented students in healthcare careers.

Leem Taha is an exceptional VCU student majoring in Biomedical Engineering, nominated for the Carter G. Woodson Awards based on her academic excellence, leadership in student organizations and engineering teams, and internship experience. Leem led in the National Society of Black Engineers as Social Media Chair and Pre-College Initiative Chair; in this role, she forged an engaging learning environment for over 500 Richmond-based K-12 students through workshops and collaborative events with other student orgs. In recognition of her success in this leadership role, Leem was awarded the 2025 VCU Executive Board Member of the Year and Most Involved Collegiate Volunteer in the Pre-College Initiative. She also served as Corresponding Secretary for the Society of Women Engineers, organizing professional panels, community outreach programs, and networking events. Leem earned the position of Supplier Quality Engineering Intern at Boston Scientific and made an impact by automating, designing, and prototyping human health solutions. Further, Leem was involved as a Peer Tutor at the Campus Learning Center, and is a leader on her Sternheimer Award-winning Capstone team, engineering a novel, biocompatible neonatal dilator for treatment of anorectal malformation. Outside of engineering, Leem loves to stay involved with the local RVA Pieces Chess Club and entertaining her gardening hobbies.

It is our delight on behalf of the Urban and Regional Studies and Planning Program to nominate graduate student Jordyn Taylor for a Carter G. Woodson Award for Academic Excellence. Jordyn's commitment to making housing security a reality for all is evident in her every interaction in her graduate coursework, and her choice to use her master's degree capstone project to serve residents of public housing in Portsmouth, Virginia. Jordyn's passion for and dedication to tenant empowerment are inspiring. She has creatively translated a limited research literature to forcefully argue for the importance of tenant education for housing stability, and undertaken the ambitious task of collecting mixed-methods data to develop an evidence base and outcomes that her capstone client can draw on to improve program offerings. She approached her capstone project not just as another school assignment but as important justice research. Amidst all this effort, Jordyn is an exceptionally cheerful and optimistic student whose future as an urban planner of major impact is all but guaranteed. Thank you, Jordyn, for bringing out the best in our field. We are so grateful for the opportunity to honor you.

Delano is a model student who approaches everything she does with intention, passion and adept critical thinking skills. In the classroom, she consistently engages course materials with a keen eye for implications in the lives of her colleagues and beyond the classroom, she displays tremendous leadership skills in organizing other students around issues that affect all of us in ways that ensure transformative change. Simply put, Delano embodies the spirit of the Carter G Woodson Award and I am sure that this is just one of many awards her brilliance will garner her in the future.

Akpene Tetteh, M.S., is a third-year Ph.D. candidate in the Healthcare Policy and Research program in the Department of Health Policy, VCU School of Public Health. Her dissertation aims to improve health outcomes among adults living with diabetes in the United States by targeting barriers to treatment and prevention along the diabetes continuum of care. Her research examines opportunities to improve screening rates for diabetic retinopathy, especially among high-risk groups. Akpene's research combines her 10-plus years of professional experience in the pharmaceutical industry contributing to global projects spanning the EU, USA, India, and Africa, and her academic training in Pharmaceutical Economics and Policy at the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Science, and in Industrial Chemistry at the University of Cape Coast in her native Ghana. Akpene is a truly exceptional student who our faculty agree is highly-deserving of the Carter G. Woodson Award for Academic Excellence.

As far as Black Excellence is concerned, Aja has been doing her due diligence in Secretarial Affairs in her other organization (Black Minds Matter) as well as making artwork catered to the Black Community, and having her artwork exhibited in a a juried exhibition “Black Fidelity” at The Anderson. As far as this particular organization, she has put forth a numerous amounts of effort in relation to her role as Judicial Chair, and an event planner. She puts quite a bit of knowledge and care into teaching attendees about Black History and Mental health.

Lorna Williams is a brilliant scholar and artist whose practice thrives in a space of rigorous curiosity, where technology, found matter, and organic materials find harmony. They are a powerful and considerate voice within the Department of Sculpture & Extended Media, and bring that spirits to the studio, the classroom, the hallways, and beyond. Lorna's practice is generous with itself and its audiences and their dedication to experimentation, curiosity, and an ever-rigorous artistic practice embodies and enlivens the spirit of Carter G. Woodson's legacy and this award.

Morgan Ransom is a senior at Virginia Commonwealth University pursuing a bachelor's degree in both African American Studies and Psychology. Her research interests include racial socialization, generational trauma within the Black family unit, and depression as she hopes to serve Black adolescents struggling with mental health as a Clinical Psychologist in the future. Upon graduation, she plans to enroll at VCU's graduate program for Clinical Psychology with a concentration in clinical child. Additionally, Morgan is Mellon Grant Research Fellow (housed in VCU's AFAM department) and an intern with the AYA Research team as well as the Jail Mail/Black Pink program at VCU.