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, staff, and community partners who have made a positive impact at UC Merced and beyond.
Spring 2026 Leadership Awards Recipients
Misha Gerami
Distinguished Leadership Award
Evelyn Hernandez
Distinguished Leadership Award
Photo coming soon
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
Photo coming soon
Dusty Ventura
Bobcat Wellbeing Champion (Staff/Faculty)
2024 Leadership Award Recipients
Ravneel Chauhary
Distinguished Leadership Award
Oyinkansola Amao
Distinguished Leadership Award
Favour Nnaji
Legacy Award
Jeneen Barakat
Steven & Mia Kang Leadership for Social Change Award
Stephen Smith
Carol Tomlinson-Keasey Award
Dr. Daniel Mello
Bobcat Well-Being Champion Award
