Merced, Calif. — April 25, 2025 — UC Merced recognized the initiative, innovation, and impact of its outstanding student leaders during the annual Student Leadership Awards Ceremony, hosted by the Margo F. Souza Student Leadership Center.
The event celebrated 11 students across a range of categories, including four newly established awards: Emerging Leader, Community Partner Impact Leader, College Corps Fellows Leader, and the Margo Souza Trailblazer Award. This year’s ceremony marked a record-breaking milestone, with the Student Leadership Award Committee receiving over 200 nominations — the highest number in the event’s history. The awards highlight the diverse contributions of students who demonstrate exceptional leadership both on campus and within the broader community.
(Carolyn K. on the left & AJ on the right)
Carolyn Y. Kuo -
A second-year undergraduate at UC Merced, double majoring in Human Biology and Psychology and is already making a significant impact both on and off campus. As a first-time College Corps Fellow, Carolyn serves with the School of Natural Sciences’ CalTeach team, leading hands-on STEM labs for K–12 students as part of her commitment to educational outreach.
In addition to her fellowship, Carolyn is a consultant at the University Writing Center, where she supports fellow students with writing and communication skills. She also conducts research in the Cleary Lab, where she has been an active contributor for the past year.
Beyond academics and service, Carolyn is a dedicated campus leader. She co-founded the Asian American Association, a cultural and social organization focused on celebrating diverse Asian traditions and events. She also established UC Merced’s chapter of the American Red Cross Club, which connects students with meaningful volunteer opportunities in the community. Carolyn participated in three dance performances this academic year, showcasing her talents at the Asian American Association’s Culture Fest and the Vietnamese Student Association’s Cultural Show.
After completing her undergraduate studies, Carolyn plans to attend medical school and continue pursuing higher education.
Anthony Heard (AJ) -
A fourth-year Civil Engineering student set to graduate in December 2025. A Sacramento native raised in a military family, AJ draws inspiration from influential figures such as Irene B. West, Clifton West, and Cornel West—leaders whose legacies of service and progress continue to shape his path.
Though he once envisioned a career in the military, AJ chose instead to chart a new course through higher education. During his time at UC Merced, he has engaged in academic research, explored global perspectives through a study abroad program at the National University of Singapore, and is preparing for another international experience in Cape Town, South Africa.
In addition to his academic pursuits, AJ has contributed to several entrepreneurial ventures on campus, reflecting his drive to innovate and empower others. Known for his passion for creating opportunities for his peers, he remains committed to his personal mission of “creating a better tomorrow.”
Stacy Garcia -
A third-year student at UC Merced, is double majoring in Political Science and Business Management. Her leadership on campus and commitment to community service have made her a standout among her peers.
As Director of Recruitment for the Business Society, Stacy plays a key role in shaping the organization’s growth, helping to welcome and support new members through strategic outreach and engagement initiatives. Beyond campus, she serves as a College Corps Fellow, working with the Boys and Girls Club to support children academically and provide a safe, nurturing environment during after-school hours.
In addition to her educational mentorship, Stacy leads a specialty initiative known as the Crochet Program. Through this creative outlet, she teaches children the art of crocheting, helping them develop skills in patience, structure, and creativity—while crafting whimsical, handmade furry creatures along the way.
Merced County Library -
In the inaugural year of the Community Partner Impact Award, the Merced County Library was recognized for its exceptional collaboration with UC Merced and its ongoing commitment to community enrichment.
A longtime partner of the university’s Community Engagement Center, the library actively participates in the annual Community Partner Jamboree and serves as a dedicated host site for the College Corps Fellows Program. Through this partnership, the library consistently mentors UC Merced student volunteers, empowering them to design and lead a wide range of educational and creative programs for the Merced community.
Student volunteers and College Corps Fellows have introduced diverse offerings—from teaching basic technology skills to adults and leading 3D printing and sewing tutorials, to hosting painting classes, sticker-making sessions, literacy support, and interactive craft workshops for children. These programs not only engage library patrons of all ages but also strengthen ties between the university and the broader community.
The Merced County Library’s commitment to accessible learning and community service makes it a shining example of the transformative power of collaboration.
Marlen De Jesus -
Recognizing a lack of support for women in the physics department, Marlen began organizing peers and allies who shared her vision for a more inclusive academic environment. At the Transfer, Returning, and Veteran Center, she has used her role as Student Lead to advocate for underrepresented voices, consistently stepping up to create a more welcoming and supportive space.
Her leadership extends to the Astronomy Club, where she continues to encourage emerging leaders and actively invites new ideas, fostering a culture of collaboration and growth. Through her tireless efforts, Marlen not only honors the trailblazers who came before her but also nurtures the future of inclusive leadership at UC Merced.
Mistura Bankole -
As a first-year undergraduate at UC Merced, Mistura set out with a clear mission: to grow as a leader and give back to the Merced community. That mission has quickly translated into meaningful action through internships, campus involvement, and advocacy.
Mistura has interned with organizations such as the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR), Human Rights First, and currently contributes to UC Merced’s Admissions Office. On campus, Mistura serves as Vice President of the Black Student Union, where she helps foster community and amplify student voices. She is also a member of the Campus Activities Board, an Assistant Court Justice with ASUCM, and a Student Conduct Intern with the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities.
Through each role, she continues to exemplify a strong commitment to equity, student engagement, and civic responsibility—laying the groundwork for a lasting impact on campus and beyond.
(Cody M. on the left & Miguel C. of the right)
Cody Moser -
A Ph.D. candidate in Cognitive and Information Sciences and a Fletcher Jones Fellow at the University of California, Merced. His research focuses on collective intelligence, computational modeling, and the dynamics of knowledge systems—fields at the intersection of cognition, collaboration, and complex systems.
Beyond his academic work, Cody has distinguished himself as a student leader committed to fostering academic community and mentorship. He co-developed the Mentorship for Undergraduates (MUG) Program in partnership with faculty and the Cognitive Science Student Association, creating new pathways for undergraduate engagement in research and building meaningful connections across academic levels.
In 2023, he served as the lead organizer for the California Workshop on Evolutionary Social Sciences (CWESS), hosted at UC Merced, which brought together interdisciplinary researchers from across the state to explore the future of evolutionary approaches to social science.
This fall, Cody will join the School of Collective Intelligence at Mohammed VI Polytechnic University in Morocco as an Assistant Professor, continuing his work at the forefront of collaborative knowledge systems and academic innovation.
Miguel Craven -
Craven will graduate this spring with a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. Beyond his academic achievements, Miguel has served as UC Merced’s student body president for two consecutive years, leaving a lasting impact through his commitment to student advocacy and campus engagement.
During his tenure, Miguel prioritized expanding support for student organizations, including increasing access to funding and strengthening connections across campus through creative initiatives like monthly student-designed sticker drops. He also played a key role in fostering meaningful partnerships between ASUCM and various campus departments.
His most significant endeavor, however, has been leading the effort to advocate for the construction of a Student Union Building at UC Merced. Over a year in development, the project represents a bold step toward enhancing the student experience and creating a lasting symbol of this generation’s contributions. Miguel hopes this initiative will serve as a cornerstone of his legacy and a gift to future Bobcats.
Josiah Beharry -
Served as the 50th Student Regent on the University of California Board of Regents—the first from UC Merced and the first undocumented student to hold the position. His leadership is grounded in a deep commitment to equity, access, and justice in higher education.
Over the past year, he has served as the Graduate Representative and Policy Advisor on the UC Title IX Student Advisory Board and as a Research Analyst for the UC Graduate and Professional Council, advancing research on graduate student access. A passionate educator, Josiah has served as a teaching assistant and presented at more than 20 conferences on student advocacy, trauma-informed pedagogy, and social justice.
He also volunteers with UC Merced’s Community Engagement Center and is known for his consistent service to others—choosing courage, care, and coalition over recognition.
In his words: “Social justice is not a theory—it is what happens when we choose community over fear, love over policy, and voice over silence.” Josiah’s leadership reminds us that to lead is to stand with others, not above them.
(Jacqueline A. on the left & Jason A. of the right)
Jacqueline Azevedo -
A fourth-year Management and Business Economics major with a minor in Sociology at UC Merced. Jacqueline has spent the past academic year focused on growth, leadership, and fostering meaningful connections. A first-generation student, she served in various roles—from residence life and student government to competing as a student-athlete—dedicated to supporting peers and advocating for others.
Throughout her time at UC Merced, she has prioritized creating inclusive spaces, amplifying student voices, and developing initiatives that leave a lasting impact on campus. As graduation approaches and graduate school awaits, she remains committed to advancing accessibility, equity, and empowerment in higher education for all students.
Jason Avalos -
Jason has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment through his role as Student Lead at the Community Engagement Center, where he has guided and supported fellow student staff for over two years. His service extends beyond work, with active involvement in the Rotaract Club, volunteering with Hinds Hospice, and participating in hiring committees to shape the future of UC Merced.
These impactful experiences have paved the way for Jason’s acceptance into the Master of Biomedical Sciences Class of 2025 at California Health Sciences University, bringing him closer to his goal of becoming a physician dedicated to serving the Central Valley community.
