Leadership Awards Nominations Are Now Closed
Student Leadership Awards nominations for Spring 2027 will open soon.
The Souza Student Leadership Center defines leadership as being proactive, addressing needs, and leading individuals toward collective impact, whether in formal positions or through independent initiative. Each year we recognize students who have made a positive impact at UC Merced and beyond.
Spring 2026 Leadership Awards Recipients
We proudly recognize the outstanding students, staff, and community partners who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and impact at UC Merced.
Misha Gerami
Distinguished Leadership Award
Evelyn Hernandez
Distinguished Leadership Award
Evan Martin
Legacy Award
Fasha Lennon
Steven & Mia Kang Leadership for Social Change Award
Letha Jarman
Carol Tomlinson-Keasey Award
Daniel Guel
Margo F. Souza Trailblazer Award
Areesha Tariq
Emerging Leader Award
Rithwikh Varma
CollegeCorps Fellow Award
Mia Rossitto
CollegeCorps Fellow Award
STEAM Center
Community Partner Impact Award
Dusty Ventura
Bobcat Wellbeing Champion (Staff/Faculty)
