Hooding and Commencement Program 2026 Final

HOODING AND COMMENCEMENT

CUMBERLAND UNIVERSITY

LEBANON, TENNESSEE

5:30 P.M.

FRIDAY, MAY 1, 2026

MEMORIAL LAWN AT CUMBERLAND UNIVERSITY

Welcome to the 184th Hooding and Commencement ceremony of Cumberland University’s 20252026 academic year. Commencement is the most important ceremony in the life of Cumberland University. Cumberland extends greetings to the parents, spouses, relatives, and friends who are attending today’s ceremony in person and virtually

ORDER OF EXERCISES

PROCESSIONAL

Macebearer............................................................................................................ JOE AND KATHY ADAMS Board of Trust

Announcement of Assembly.............................................................................. C. WILLIAM MCKEE, ED.D. Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

Invocation ...........................................................................................................P. AARON BELLAR, M.DIV. University Chaplain and Assistant Professor

“Star Spangled Banner”

CUMBERLAND CHORALE AND UNIVERSITY SINGERS UNDER THE DIRECTION OF

MS. MARY BOND, M.M., ADJUNCT INSTRUCTOR OF MUSIC AND DIRECTOR OF CHOIRS

THE PROGRAM

GREETINGS AND RECOGNITIONS Administration ................................................................................... PRESIDENT, PAUL C. STUMB, IV, PH.D.

Board of Trust .....................................................................Vice CHAIRMAN, MICHAEL A. MOSCARDELLI, J.D.

Alumni Association..........................................................................PRESIDENT, PATRICK T. LAWSON, M.A.E.

The Occasion................................................................................................ DEAN, JENNY L. MASON, PH.D. Millard and J.J. Oakley School of Humanities, Education, and the Arts

Meaning of the Symbols ......................................................................PROVOST, C. WILLIAM MCKEE, ED.D.

Introduction of the Speaker...................................................................DEAN, JASON S. GRINDSTAFF, PH.D.

Jeanette C. Rudy School of Nursing and Health Professions

Hooding Remarks............................................................................... PRESIDENT, PAUL C. STUMB, IV, PH.D.

AWARDS AND PRESENTATIONS

Resurgam Award

H

OODING AND CONFERRAL OF EARNED DEGREES

VALEDICTORY AND FAREWELL

PRESIDENT PAUL C. STUMB, IV, PH.D.

THE CUMBERLAND UNIVERSITY ALMA MATER

Cumberland Chorale and University Singers

Under the direction of Mary Bond, M.M., Adjunct Instructor of Music

BENEDICTION

FRED HEIFNER, TH.D.

PROFESSOR OF ANTHROPOLOGY, PHILOSOPHY, AND RELIGION

VIRGINIA AND GUY THACKSTON PROFESSOR OF LIBERAL ARTS

THE PROCESSION

The formal academic procession of Commencement begins with music and fanfare. The flags of Cumberland University are presented by the Academic Deans of the Schools. Candidates for the Degrees follow their Dean into the arena.

JASON S. GRINDSTAFF, PH.D., DEAN AND PROFESSOR

Jeanette C. Rudy School of Nursing and Health Professions

JENNY L. MASON, PH.D., DEAN AND ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR

Millard and J.J. Oakley School of Humanities, Education, and the Arts

JAMES D. SHULMAN, J.D., DEAN AND ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

Edward A. Labry School of Science, Technology, and Business

THE MACEBEARER

The Macebearer carries the Mace, the official symbol of academic authority, the meaning of which has evolved from medieval weaponry. The Mace is a symbol of the power of knowledge and the significance of a liberal arts education. At the base is a milkweed pod, representing the many directions the seeds of education travel. At the top is a globe, representing the world of lifelong learning. Cumberland University’s mace also displays a representation of the University’s special symbol, the Phoenix. The mythical bird boldly rises from the fire of ideas atop the globe. Phoenix medallions are also found on the staff of the Mace. The Mace was designed and crafted by Mr. Klaus Kallenberger, a craftsman living in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Made of cherry wood, wrought and cast sterling silver, red jasper, and red enamel, it was a gift to the University from University Trustee Jeanette Cantrell Rudy, who passed away in 2011. It is the tradition of this University to select a person from the Cumberland community to serve as Macebearer. The Macebearer walks with the Faculty of the University and is the first person to enter the commencement chamber before the President. The tradition traces to the Macebearer’s role in protecting the President, but for Cumberland, the meaning is deeper, as it represents the special historical role played by the community in assuring the continuity of this great University.

JOE AND KATHY ADAMS

Joe and Kathy Adams are lifetime residents of Lebanon, Tennessee. Joe retired after a 35-year career in the insurance industry and now focuses on family real estate development and management, contributing to the continued growth and vitality of the Lebanon community. He has served on the Board of Trust of Cumberland University since 2004 and currently serves as Chair of the Finance and Investment Committee, continuing a proud family legacy with the University that spans four generations of service.

Kathy Adams has been actively engaged in the Lebanon community for many years. She has played an important role in helping organize Historic Lebanon and has served on city planning commissions, contributing to thoughtful community development and preservation efforts. She is also a long-time member of the Year Round Garden Club. Together, Joe and Kathy are members of Lebanon First Presbyterian Church.

In 2025, Joe and Kathy, along with other members of their family, established the Adams Family Endowed Academic Area Lead in Education within the University’s Oakley School of Humanities, Education, and the Arts. This is the first endowed Academic Area Lead in the University’s history. The position supports faculty leadership, curriculum innovation, and student success, reflecting their deep belief in the transformative power of education and their enduring commitment to Cumberland University’s mission.

The Adams family’s multi-generational connection to Cumberland University reflects a longstanding dedication to education, leadership, and service. Joe and Kathy are the proud parents of two children, Will Adams of Nashville and Amy Harpalani of San Francisco, along with their spouses and four grandchildren. Joe is a graduate of Centre College, and Kathy is a graduate of the University of Tennessee, a shared foundation that has shaped their enduring commitment to family, community, and education.

RESURGAM AWARD

This award honors a student who has risen above significant challenges with resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to completing their degree. The recipient of this award exemplifies the grit and perseverance it takes to not only succeed academically but also to embody the dedication and strength of character essential to their future profession. Their journey reflects the spirit of overcoming adversity and a steadfast dedication to making a meaningful impact in the world. This prestigious award is being presented to:

DENISSE NICOLE EDWARDS

Denisse’s professional career began in the field of business. She earned a bachelor’s degree in business finance and a Master of Business Administration from Middle Tennessee State University. She later started a new journey to earn a teaching license and entered the Master of Arts in Teaching program at Cumberland University through the Tennessee Department of Education’s alternate pathway program. Denisse currently teaches Kindergarten at Friendship Christian School in Lebanon. In addition to her teaching, she is active in her church by leading the Children’s Ministry and is active in the Wilson County community.

Denisse is supported today by her husband, Dennis and their two sons Lincoln and Raymond and other family and friends. She is described by her colleagues as a “knowledgeable, enthusiastic, collaborative, committed, professional educator.” Denisse is dedicated to fostering a lifelong love of learning, while supporting students’ social and academic development. She exemplifies all that we respect and admire in an effective teacher.

CANDIDATES FOR THE DEGREES

Jeanette C. Rudy School of Nursing & Health Professions

Master of Arts

December 13, 2025

* Andrew Garza Mystic, Connecticut

May 2, 2026

DeAndre’ T. Caldwell Smyrna, Tennessee

Sydney Nicole Hermann Ponca City, Oklahoma

Sydney Pearce Durham, North Carolina

Garrett Ryan Todd Mt. Juliet, Tennessee

August 15, 2026

Cathryn Arch Middletown, Maryland

* Antonio Costas-Quinones Carolina, Puerto Rico

Katie Killen Smyrna, Tennessee

Master of Science in Athletic Training

May 2, 2026

Darius Baguinon ................................................................................................................. Lihue, Hawaii

Ethan Scott Baird Cumberland Furnace, Tennessee

Vaibhay Singh Bisht Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India

Hope Marie Britt Thrall, Texas

Brody Ray Johnson Livingston, Tennessee

Hazel Rae Konkel Du Bois, Illinois

Aydan Leigh Massengill Lafollette, Tennessee

Joseph Preston Moore Lebanon, Tennessee

Carson Andrew Posch Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Ja’Maria Rutherford Nashville, Tennessee

Naomi Wiersma............................................................................ Workum, Friesland, The Netherlands

Master of Sport and Exercise Science

August 16, 2025

Cecilia Francis Amou-Berry...........................................................................Lagos Island, Lagos, Nigeria

December 13, 2025

* Kadisha Eva Maria Martina Willemstad, Curaçao

May 2, 2026

Adam Ammons Bainbridge, Indiana

August 15, 2026

Bryleigh Elisabeth Yarbrough Unionville, Tennessee

Master of Science in Nursing

May 2, 2026

Carol Anne Clanton Kenton, Tennessee

Starlette Charmaine Cole Dickson, Tennessee

Annitrice L. Hill-Young Birmingham, Alabama

Halle Pavan Mt. Juliet, Tennessee

Armando Cochise Rodriguez El Paso, Texas

Millard and J.J. Oakley School of Humanities, Education, and the Arts

Master of Arts in Education December 13, 2025

Lindsey Anne Angel-Hackett Riddleton, Tennessee

Cameron McClellan Brown Ocala, Florida

* Pacey Najdusak Mason, Ohio

Kara A. Rowland Portland, Oregon

Houston Ray Stafford Harstville, Tennessee

May 2, 2026

Bailey Mai Cutrell Hendersonville, Tennessee

* Andres Ramirez ................................................................................................................Toledo, Ohio

* Jacob Matthew Zachary Whyte Lockport, Illinois

August 15, 2026

Tamim Aldarawcheh Worcester, Massachusetts

* Jason Duane Joyce II Fall Branch, Tennessee

Raevine Raeasa Walker Memphis, Tennessee

Master of Arts in Teaching December 13, 2025

* Sherry LaRhea Carter Fleming ............................................................................ Lafayette, Tennessee

Chance Austin Gallardo Anaheim, California

* Jenna Nicole Hillenbrand.................................................................................Canyon Lake, California

Jacob Randall Hood Mt. Juliet, Tennessee

Chelsey Rae Hough................................................................................................ Bethpage, Tennessee

Amanda Jarrell Martel Lebanon, Tennessee

Christopher Trevor Napier Lafayette, Tennessee

Kathrine B. Phillips Mt. Juliet, Tennessee

May 2, 2026

Jennifer Lee Allman Hohenwald, Tennessee

Evan Brice Clemmons Lebanon, Tennessee

Denisse Nicole Edwards Mt. Juliet, Tennessee

* Dylan Neal Hackett Carthage, Tennessee

Jerrol Alan Jackson ...............................................................................................Birmingham, Alabama

* Hope Ann McIntyre Covington, Tennessee

Brandi Lynn McKinney............................................................................................Carthage, Tennessee

Maggie Lee Mosley Lebanon, Tennessee

* De’Andre Montez Ray Gallatin, Tennessee

Samantha N. Reinoehl Lebanon, Tennessee

Shelby Lynn Summar Watertown, Tennessee

Rachel Robin Whited Lebanon, Tennessee

August 15, 2026

* Joshua Betcher Westmoreland, Tennessee

Sean Dalton McConnell ......................................................................................Old Hickory, Tennessee

Nicholas Plemons Lenoir City, Tennessee

Maggie Snyder Davidson Lebanon, Tennessee

Hannah L. Studlack Minersville, Pennsylvania

Master of Science

December 13, 2025

Jalen Brown Jackson, Tennessee

Madison Houdashelt Pleasant View, Tennessee

August 15, 2026

Tara Mitchell Mielnik Old Hickory, Tennessee

Alexandria Trull...........................................................................................................Kennedy, Alabama

Master of Public Service Management

December 13, 2025

Ecarterenia Johnson...............................................................................................Nashville, Tennessee

Jessica Virginia Ware Florence, South Carolina

May 2, 2026

* Jaclyn Faith Biller ..............................................................................................Warwick, Rhode Island

Daniel J. Brown White Bluff, Tennessee

Caryn Ganell Clopton..............................................................................................Nashville, Tennessee

Cassandra Foret Hartsville, Tennessee

Danielle Nicole Godin ......................................................................................Manchester, Connecticut

Haley Hogan Cartersville, Georgia

Christopher Michael Holden............................................................................................Houston, Texas

Jayden Jobe Lebanon, Tennessee

* Victoria Faith Leurs...................................................................................... Pleasant View, Tennessee

Keith Scott McNamara Castalian Springs, Tennessee

* Madison Lynn Meiss............................................................................................Nashville, Tennessee

Gbewa Mustapha Nashville, Tennessee

Brenda Navarro ................................................................................................................ Miami, Florida

Gamaliel Ortiz Soto Puerto Rico

Zachary M. Plese .......................................................................................................Wilmington, Illinois

Virginia S. Robins Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Nicole Olivia Rose ...............................................................................................Old Hickory, Tennessee

Carter Rost Osakis, Minnesota

Katherine Ann Simone................................................................................................ Sparta, Tennessee

Harris Morris Smith III Jackson, Tennessee

Nathan Thomas ..................................................................................................Fredericksburg, Virginia

Alexandra Nicole Thompson Lebanon, Tennessee

Wei-Ling Wang Brentwood, Tennessee

Laura Lynn Williams Nashville, Tennessee

August 15, 2026

Misty Maria Stevenson Nashville, Tennessee

Edward A. Labry School of Science, Technology, and Business

Master of Business Administration

December 13, 2025

Brian David Fremming Victoria, Iowa

* Lucia Mei Gomez Cabrera Esplugues de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain

Jack Douglas Latimer Camas, Washington

* Justin T. Mosier Alamo, Tennessee

Caroline O’Brien Lebanon, Tennessee

May 2, 2026

Fiyinfoluwa Opemipo Awodele Omaha, Nebraska

Isla Brown Auchtermuchty, Fife, Scotland

Francesco Corradini Corridonia, Italy

Kayla Gordon.................................................................................................................. O’Fallon, Illinois

Vincent Gowe Bangwe, Blantyre, Malawi

* Will Graves Rockvale, Tennessee

Vaquenzia Katriece Jordan Nashville, Tennessee

Libby Blair Knight Mt. Juliet, Tennessee

Dalton Kniola White House, Tennessee

Madison Eileen Koenig Mt. Juliet, Tennessee

* Sean Lightbody Malden, Massachusetts

Christopher Lee Martin Lewisburg, Tennessee

Noah Bailey Owsley White House, Tennessee

* Suzi Lynn Powell ............................................................................................Chattanooga, Tennessee

Carter Davis Pruitte Castalian Springs, Tennessee

Christopher E. Sheputis ..............................................................................................Romeoville, Illinois

Sammie Leigh Simpson Gordonsville, Tennessee

Dan Slapnik Trost............................................................................................... Skofije, Koper, Slovenija

William Spence Bon Aqua, Tennessee

Chelsea Jean Sterne Newhall, California

Patryk Krystian Surowiak Montreal, Quebec, Canada

August 15, 2026

* Jeremiah Bryant Atwood, Tennessee

Thomas Chase Hermitage, Tennessee

Marquita Crawford Chattanooga, Tennessee

George Elroy Davisson Concord, California

Madison Ryan Husted........................................................................................ Manchester, Tennessee

Sydney E. Schwallie Chelsea, Alabama

Guiselle Marie Quiel de Scott..................................................................................Lebanon, Tennessee

Arsheen Shroff Long Beach, California

Taylor Nichole Watkins Clearwater, Florida

Master of Science

Engineering Management

August 16, 2025

Ɨ Raju Mattewada Irving, Texas

December 13, 2025

* Suhas Adusumilli Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Mir Basith Ali Hyderabad, Telangana, India

* Sacha Colomban Briancon, Hautes Alpes, France

Sreenilay Yadav Dasari Siddipet, Telangana, India

Javed Husain Dhaka, Bangladesh

Shoaeb Mustafa Khan Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Sujith Kosaraju Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Basith Ali Mir Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Ricky Kanubhai Patel Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India

Richard E. Solbrig Lebanon, Tennessee

Samuel Joy Tandeka Kampala, Uganda

Niharika Vedire Hyderabad, Telangana, India

May 2, 2026

* Mogdad Ibrahim Alhammad Dammam, Alshargyah

Muhammad Arsalan Abbottabad, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Manohar Bathula Miryalaguda, Telangana, India

Anish Bhatta Kathmandu, Bagmati, Nepal

Shambu Chambani Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India

Vinicius irui Fiorelli de Castro São Paulo, Brazil

Mohammed Hammad Fouzan Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Naga Saidulu Gudapati Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India

Jevi Robinson Jayaraj......................................................................................... Trichy, Tamilnadu, India

Dileep Chand Kancharla Vinukonda, Palnadu, India

* Uday Kiran Katuri.....................................................................................Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Mohammed Faizan Khan Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Venkata Surrendra Babu Koya..............................................Chinna Nandigama, Andhra Pradesh, India

Sai Sri Prajwal Kesari Kunduri Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Naga Pavan Kalyan Lingineni Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India

Taylor Michael Matson Nashville, Tennessee

Gouse Moinuddin Mohammad Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Abdul Idris Siddiqui Mohammed Adilabad, Telangana, India

Abdul Khaleq Mohammed Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Arif Hussain Mohammed Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Faisal Ahmed Mohammed Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Khalid Mohammed Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Mustafa Mohammed..................................................................................Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Muzakkir Mohiuddin Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Aashutosh Madhviben Jigarkumar Naik .................................................................. Surat, Gujarat, India

Sasi Kumar Padhiripatla Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh, India

Arun Kumar Pandya Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Iftiyam Pasha Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Brijraj Pathak Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Niruth Shanka Perera Colombo, Sri Lanka

* Vinay Pilli Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh, India

Sai Kumar Rongali Chowdavaram, Guntur, India

* Fiyansh D Shah Vasai, Maharashtra, India

Khiser Siddiq Shaik............................................................................Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India

Mingma Tendu Sherpa Kathmandu, Bagmati, Nepal

Mohammed Moheed Ali Siddiqui Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Ibrahim Mohammed Syed Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Sumair Syed Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Naveen Satish Uppin Hubballi-Dharwad, Karnataka, India

* Marta Vicens Miguel Pollenca, Mallorca, Spain

August 15, 2026

* Snehal Sunil Ambre Khed, Maharashtra, India

Jagadeesh Ancha Khammam, Telangana, India

* Krishna Prasen Bangari Hanamkonda, Telangana, India

Avinash Naidu Bheema Mellachervu, Telangana, India

Daniel Diaz Los Ángeles, Chile

Abhista Sai Rishi Kumar Gatika ...................................................................Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Shinbin George Philip Thiruvalla, Pathanamthitta, Kerala, India

Tarun Kumar Gudivaka Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India

Nikhitha Gopal Gunturu Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India

Victor Guzman III Rock Island, Illinois

Abdul Aziz Haroon Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Syed Mohsin Hussain Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan

Jagadeesh Karri Garavupalem, Gunturm Andhra Pradesh, India

Khalid Saifullah Khan Mahbubnagar, Telangana, India

Mahmood Ahmed Khan Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Srihitha Manepally..................................................................................... Nizamabad, Telangana, India

Rizwan Mohammed Warangal, Telangana, India

Tanveer Hussain Mohammed.................................................................Hanamkonda, Telangana, India

* Ziauddin Mohammed Karimnagar, Telangana, India

Rameezuddin Mohammed Khazi................................................................Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Mushtaq Muhammed Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Abhi Vasubhai Patel Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India

Lalithanjali Punagani Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Pallavi Pramod Rajpure Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Shaik Mohammed Taimuddin Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Mohammad Saif Uddin Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Mohammed Waseem Uddin Hyderabad, Telangana, India

May 3, 2025

Ɨ Devaraj Bodige Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Ɨ Prabhu Dasu Jonnalagadda Sattenapalli, Andhra Pradesh, India

Ɨ Sridhar Kalyanapu Khammam, Telangana, India

Ɨ Manasa Kasturi Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Ɨ Rama Krishna Sathapati Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Ɨ Venkata Prasad Thippasamudram........................................................ Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh, India

August 16, 2025

Mohammad Asif Hyderabad, Telangana, India

* Saikiran Burra Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Sai Nikhil Reddy Palle Lingojigudem, Telangana, India

Vivek Ramanand Pamulapati Cuttack, Odisha, India

Amjad Shaik Irving, Texas

Nikhil Kumar Sirram Nizamabad, Telangana, India

Anusha Reddy Vallakonda Kamareddy, Telangana, India

December 13, 2025

Ananya Samuel Adane Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Swathi Batta Rayachoty, Andhra Pradesh, India

Nirali Bhaliya................................................................................................... Ahmedabad, Gujrat, India

Manideep Chanda Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Phaneendra Chatla Pamarru, Andhra Pradesh, India

Varshaben Chaudhary Patan, Gujarat, India

Mahender Reddy Chinthalapalli Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Harish Chitturi Khammam, Telangana, India

Chandu Manohar Chukka Gudivada, Andhra Pradesh, India

Deepika Giri Kathmandu, Nayabazar, Nepal

Chinmai Anantha Shanmukha Swaroop Gottapu Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India

Yenniredla Harish Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India

* Megan Christine Hopton ................................................................... Hull, Yorkshire, United Kingdom

Javed Husain Deoli, Tonk, Rajasthan, India

Mohammed Mauwiya Khan .......................................................................Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Sabina Khatri Tikathali, Lalitpur, Nepal

Sumanth Kokkiragadda.....................................................................Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India

Ranjith Reddy Kondapur Nirmal, India

Kishore Korukonda Denton, Texas

Saipranith Kothagattu Warangal, Telangana, India

Bikram Malla Kanchanpur, Sudurpashchim, Nepal

Rishitha Mandla Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Chanda Manideep Devarakonda, Telangana, India

Naga Sai Saahil Mokkapati Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India

Priyanka Nalla Chityal, Telangana, India

Anthony Obulor Olisa Bowie, Maryland

Rohit Kumar Phani......................................................................................Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Rajeev Pinnamaneni Virginia Beach, VA

Aditya Pushadapu....................................................................................Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India

Heena Qureshi Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Kondapur Ranjith Reddy Nirmal, India

Apurba Rimal Kathmandu, Bagmati, Nepal

Sai Srujan Sambaraju Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Keerthana Sathish Kumar Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India

* Shaizaan Shaik Hyderabad, Telangana, India

* Shyam Singireddy Jangaon, Telangana, India

Devi Priya Sugrivagari Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India

* Saad Salauddin Syed................................................................................Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Abhishek Sri Sai Tammannagari Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India

Abeye Tewodros Tilahun Cottage Grove, Minnesota

Nikunj Rasikbhai Vaghani Surat, Gujrat, India

Harish Yenniredla Visakhapatnam, India

Tesfaye Belay Yetbarek Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

May 2, 2026

Guna Shekhar Alluri Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Shaik Ameer Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Lawrence Kofi Asiam Accra, Ghana

* Rajesh Bardhan Badri Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India

Venkata Sai Sundar Badugu Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India

Nikhil Baradi Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Sujan Basnet............................................................................................Dhankuta, Nepal, Koshi, Nepal

Rohith Kumar Beerakayala Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Rahima Binta Bellal Dhaka, Bangladesh

Joshua Randall Chassang Thyme Bottom, Christ Church, Barbados

Neha Cherukuri Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Channimith Chhet Preah Sihanouk, Cambodia

Sai Teja Chirumamilla Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Prashanth Dantha Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India

Muhammad Faheem Abbottabad, Khyber Pakhtonkhuwa, Pakistan

Saif Hussain Faisal Hyderabad, Telangana, India

* Vamsi Krishna Gadesh ........................................................................Inimetla, Andhra Pradesh, India

Iñigo Gonzalez Zaballa Castro Urdiales, Cantabria, Spain

* Naveen Kumar Gunna..............................................................................Hyderabad, Telangana, India

* Oscar Freddie Luca Haynes Brown London, United Kingdom

* Gerardo Lerones Hermida ............................................................................ Malaga, Andalucia, Spain

Hasin Ahbab Hridoy Dinajpur, Bangladesh

* Praneeth Vardhan Kakulavarapu Tenali, Andhra Pradesh, India

Raghavendra Reddy Karnati Gulladurthi, Andhra Pradesh, India

Wendmagegn Birhanu Kebede Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Sabera Saba Khatoon Hyderabad, Telangana, India

* Naga Vani Kolli Bengaluru, Karnataka, India

Beerakayla Rohith Kumar Nagole, Telangana, India

Bindu Lakshmi Pujitha Kurakula Narasaraopet, Andhra Pradesh, India

* Faraz Lalani Valsad, Gujarat, India

* Shaik Goush Lazam....................................................................Visakhapatnam, Andra Pradesh, India

Bharath Macha Tirupathi, Andhra Pradesh, India

Mamta................................................................................................................. Kaithal, Haryana, India

Bhandavya Anupama Raj Mandela Bhimavaram, Andhra Pradesh, India

* Rizwan Raju Memdani Umbergaon, Gujarat, India

* Tanvir Yusuf Memon Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Abdul Kazeem Mohammed Naperville, Illinois

Ibrahim Mohammed Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Umer Farooq Ali Mohammed Mahabubnagar, Telangana, India

* Sushma Reddy Mudela Miryalaguda, Telangana, India

Anvesh Nannam Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India

Ronald Ndlovu ............................................................................... Bulawayo, Matebeleland, Zimbabwe

Lonjezo Ernest Obote Lilongwe, Central Region, Malawi

* Jaiminee Kamleshkumar Patel Kalol, Gujarat, India

* Saipriya Pelaprolu Khammam, Telangana, India

Rakesh Penta Mancherial, Telangana, India

Bhavya Pentyala Khammam, Telangana, India

Chandu Polasi Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India

Naga Manikanta Karthikeyan Posani Birmingham, Alabama

Tejaswini Pulipathi Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Lakshmi Durga Puppala Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India

Lalitha Srija Puppala Neelipudi, Andhra Pradesh, India

Abdul Abrar Salam Qureshi Vienna, Virginia

Mohammed Zeeshan Ahmed Qureshi Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Md Wahid Zaman Raj Madaripur, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Vinay Varma Rekadi................................................................... Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India

Hassan Shaik Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Ishan Sorathiya Vadodara, Gujarat, India

Abdul Aziz Syed Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Mohammed Mehdi Syed Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Nandiswar Tamada Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, India

* Bharadwaj Thangellapalli Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Brhan Zelalem Tsegaye Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Muskan Mansurali Vasaya Vapi, Gujarat, India

Akshita Vemuri Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Shyamala Venkata Padmavathi Viyyapu.................................... Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India

* Teddy Jolan West Turners Hill, West Sussex, England

Bibi Yana....................................................................Sher Qilla, Punial, Ghizer Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan

Jean-Franco Nicolas Zarate Gonzalez Santiago, Region Metropolitana, Chile

Shoaib Zumair.............................................................................................Hyderabad, Telangana, India

August 15, 2026

Mohammad Abraar Ajmeri Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Muskan Khetani Amin Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Modupe Oluwakemi Asama Ipaja, Lagos, Nigeria

* Shruthi Soundarya Nari Ati Plano, Texas

* Krishna Vas Azimera Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Nawaf Akram Baig Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Sakina Bogati Kathmandu, Nepal

Trevor Boortz...................................................................................................................... Austin, Texas

Naga Venkata Siva Sai Chintalapudi Chirala, Andhra Pradesh, India

* Yaswanth Reddy Chittem..................................................................... Kadapa, Andhra Pradesh, India

Sreelekha Dandu Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India

Sai Lakshmi Edara Pampur, Andhra Pradesh, India

Ahmed Farhan Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Sadaf Fatima Houston, Texas

* Sree Sowmya Gaddam Hyderabad, Telangana, India

* Ronald Ian Gitau Ramotswa, South East, Botswana

Syed Hussain Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Mohammed Faisal Imam Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Muhammad Mustaffa Kamal...................................................................................Lebanon, Tennessee

Awsaf Khan Pune, Maharashtra, India

* Osama Ali Khan Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan

Saifulla Khan Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Mohith Kumar Kilari Ongole, Andhra Pradesh, India

Pabbala Shiva Kumar Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Nifa Naushadbhai Maknojiya Mira Road, Maharashtra, India

Abid Mohammed Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Saqlain Mohammed Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Ali Mohammed Musharaf Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Saifullah Mushtaq Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan

Sucharitha Pagadala Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Sruthi Parasurampuram Vizag, Andhra Pradesh, India

Pratik Bharatbhai Patel Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India

Vinit Shaileshkumar Patel....................................................................................Mehsana, Gujrat, India

Rohan Chowdary Pusala Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh, India

Mohammed Abdul Quddus Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Rozmin Raily Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Tanya Raj Hajipur, Bihar, India

Govardhan Rao Ratnapuram Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Daddanala Nagarjuna Reddy Maddalamadaka, Andhra Pradesh, India

* Uma Shankar Sahukari Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India

Mohammed Saleem Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Salima Samnani Thane, Maharashtra, India

Vishnu Sathyan.................................................................................................. Kozhikode, Kerala, India

*Fawad Abrar Shah Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan

Avinash Thatikonda ..................................................................Visakhapatanam, Andhra Pradesh, India

Nagavamshi Thumma Jagityal, Telangana, India

Mohd Abraar Uddin....................................................................................Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Manisha Vegyarapu Korutla, Telangana, India

Gireesh Vilasagaram Khammam, Telangana, India

Mohammad Wasim Hyderabad, Telangana, India

Layanya Yarram Narasaraopet, Andra Pradesh, India

Mohammed Wajahath Ali Zafar Hyderabad, Telangana, India

* denotes in absentia

Ɨ denotes delayed participation

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Macebearer

Joe and Kathy Adams

Presentation of the Hood

Chelsea J. Sterne, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor and Faculty Senate President and

Sheridan W. S. Henson, Ed.D.

Executive Director of Academic Support and Associate Professor

Candidate Readers

Jenny E. Ballard, M.F.A.

Swathi Batta, M.S.

William R. Richardson, M.S.P., M.B.A.

Akshitha Vemuri, M.S.

Faculty Promotions

Joseph W. Callis, M.S.N., Instructor to Assistant Professor

Beth Chatham, Ph.D., Associate Professor to Professor

Joshua Klaassen, Ph.D., Assistant Professor to Associate Professor

Julie Phillips, Ph.D., Associate Professor to Professor

Andrew Wiley, Ph.D., Assistant Professor to Associate Professor

The Program lists the names of candidates who anticipate completing all degree requirements. Inclusion of an individual’s name in the program does not necessarily mean that all the degree requirements have been met. This program is believed to be correct as of April 24, 2026.

Yeniza Agustin-Romero

Ethan Riley Anderson

Deijanaye Y. Andrews

Reagan Gracie ReAnn Arnemann

Mario Bahena

William Grafton Baines

Phoenix Joseph Baker

Venus J. Ballard

Abbey Benson-Tato

Kylie Lauren Brooke Benz

Madilyn Bergset Miers

Bless Anne R. Bernabe

Sydney Bethards

Annie Grace Blackmon

Caleb Anthony Bobel

Matthew Borne

Cameron MaeRick Bramble

Ashlyn Taylor Byers

Dawson Lee Cannon

Shelby Faith Chastain

Mary Grace Connelly

Lillian Faith Conrad

McKayla Leanne Crowder

Zachary Crumpton

Melillani Cruz Santiago

Hannah Lynae Daniel

Leslie Elizabeth Davis

Maggie Ann Davis

Mariam A. Davis

Ryan Lee Deakins

Briahna Nikole DeCastro

Candace LaRae Dedrick

Charleigh Elizabeth Dick

Julia Paige Dickerson

Kailen Victoria Donoho

Landon Durbin

Megan Edwards

Sarah Elizabeth Elgin

Amelia Brooke Felts

Henry Foster

Chloe Foutch

Addyson Elizabeth Freeman

Emma Nicole Freeman

Anahi Garcia

Logan Garcia

SCHOLASTIC HONOR SOCIETIES

Alpha Lambda Delta

First Year Honor Society

Dr. C. William McKee, Sponsor

Graduating Members

Jada Liabelle Graves

Alyssa Lynn Greenlee

McKenzie McKay Guffey

Ana Cheree Gupton

Lanah Hobbs Hale

Ryan Christopher Harlin

Mia Elizabeth Harris

Vivien Rae Harris

Zoi Layna Harris

Lily Haynes

Marisa Rhianna Heckman

Alaina Leigh-Ting Heidebreicht

Alina Jie Hill

Jess M. Holder

Estie Caroline Holman

Emily Claire Hopkins

Matthew Timothy Jackson

Raeanne Elaine Jenkins

Ella Grace Johnson

Marissa Delia Juarez

Ember Michele Keeler

Hannah Elizabeth Kelley

Rachel C. Kellogg

Cecilia Knaphus

Bailey Rebecca Lackey

Camden Rose Lackey

Luke Kristopher Lawson

Sydni Rhea Lening

Peyton Lester

Alexander Hackett Linville

Landon Locke

Madison Hailey Loftis

Allison Luna

Carissa Carrigan Lurie

MaryJane Joselyn Martinez

Leonydes Naomi Matis

Sandra Jeanne McAfee

Makenzie McElroy

Kaylee Elizabeth McFarlin

Lauren E. McGee

Lily Beth McPeak

Aaliyah Rose Moore

Khalon Vittorio Moore

Meliha Mulaosmanovic

Nevaeh Nichols

Miranda Jean Nix

Leila Page

Charlotte Rose Payne

Jadyn Renee Pentell

Lillian MaraDean Pinkerton

Jayden Marie Poole

Arianna Cherie Primm

Layla Jade Pruitt

Anthony Ray Pyron

Takoda Raines

Jaleigh Marie Robertson

Kaitlyn Elizabeth Rodgers

Eleanor Russell

Beshoy Sherif Sabry

Daniel Scherf

Anna Jo Schnicke

Carlie Elizabeth Semrau

Samuel Michael Shires II

Hailey Rene Smith

Je’Myra Evonne Smith

Katelynn Smith

Hailey Madison Smoot

Ashley Parker Stewart Tienda

Alexander Jacob Stoffel

Destiny Lynn Tapp

Melissa Marie Tegos

Katie June Thomas

Sydnee Nicole Tidwell

Kyla Jay Urell

Sienna Lynn Van Avery

Mira G. Van Hooreweghe

Addison Elizabeth VanWinkle

William LeBron Weir

Kierra McKenzie White

Alexandria Lyn Whitlock

Megan Emily Wilkinson

Abigail Lorene Williams

Emily Nicole Wills

Michael Logan Wilson

Robert Jacob Wilson

Daniel Dabin Woo

Avery Faye Woodard

Faith Ajanae Wright

Alpha Chi

Lambda Chapter

Top Ten Percent of Juniors and Seniors Honor Society

Dr. Sheridan W. S. Henson, Sponsor

Graduating Members

Theresa Lloyd Andersen

Madeline Marie Brillhart

Caryn Ganell Clopton

Denisse Nicole Edwards

Summer Cheynne Gilbreath

Jacob Randall Hood

Emily Claire Hopkins

Jerrol Alan Jackson

Carissa Carrigan Lurie

Emma Caitlin McAdoo

Keith Scott McNamara

Lonjezo Ernest Obote

Alpha Phi Sigma

Beta Tau Chapter

Criminal Justice Honor Society

Dr. Suzann Lafferty, Sponsor

Graduating Members

Parker Eden Arvin

Sarah Grace Conrad

Maci Marie Ferrell

Estie Holman

Kyrillos Saad

Arne Sohmer

Lauren M. Stevison

Megan Emily Wilkinson

Lilianna Martinez-Franco

Lily Beth McPeak

Megan Emily Wilkinson

Beta Beta Beta

Pi Sigma Chapter

Biological Honor Society

Dr. Michael Fulbright, Sponsor

Graduating Members

Jadyn McGrew

Delta Mu Delta

Iota Iota Chapter

Honor Society in Business Administration

Dr. Valerie King, Sponsor

Graduating Members

Dana M. Bilbrey

Leslie E. Davis

Manoella Neves Gomes

Kyrillos Saad

Brooklynn Jablonski

Dakota Trace Shipper

Samuel Shires, II

Yeniza Agustin-Romero

Annie Grace Blackmon

Alizea Nicole Boyle

Mariaelena M. Bradley

Hope Marie Britt

Sahvanna Rose Clark

Kaitlyn Braneé Clemons

Mary Grace Connelly

Bailey Mai Cutrell

Leslie Elizabeth Davis

Mariam A. Davis

Ryan Lee Deakins

Lanah Hobbs Hale

Mark Edward Hanshaw, Jr.

Vaibhav Bisht

Hope Britt

Brody Johnson

Theresa Anderson

Bailey Cuttrell

Gamma Beta Phi

Cumberland University Chapter

Honor Society and Service Organization

Dr. Cindy Conley, Sponsor

Ms. Dixie Rury, Co-Sponsor

Graduating Members

Alaina Leigh-Ting Heidebreicht

Estie Caroline Holman

Jacob Randall Hood

Abby Nicole Howard

Matthew Timothy Jackson

Jayden Jobe

Hazel Rae Konkel

Zachary Thomas Lee

Carissa Carrigan Lurie

Leonydes Naomi Matis

Lily Beth McPeak

Leesa Tadiwanashe

Mutandwa

Pacey Najdusak

Iota Tau Alpha

Delta Nu Chapter

Athletic Training Honors Society

Dr. Whitney Graves, Sponsor

Graduating Members

Ronald Ndlovu

Collin Stihl Nichols

Emilin Mariana Olivares

Rebollar

Sydney Pearce

Lillian MaraDean Pinkerton

Robert Anthony Polidan

Bailey Sophia Pope

Anthony Ray Pyron

Kaitlyn Elizabeth Rodgers

Eleanor Russell

Arsheen Shroff

Destiny Lynn Tapp

Melissa Marie Tegos

Hazel Konkel

Ayden Massengill

Kappa Delta Pi

Upsilon Omega Chapter

Education Honor Society

Dr. Whitney Matthews, Sponsor

Graduating Members

Marissa Heckman

Jacob Hood

Staffani Schrader

Fatima Serrano

Yeniza Agustin-Romero

Venus J. Ballard

Jaclyn Faith Biller

Vaibhay Singh Bisht

Jackson Whitmore Bone

Hope Marie Britt

Gabriella Naomi Clapa

Caryn Ganell Clopton

Lillian Faith Conrad

Leslie Elizabeth Davis

Alicia D. Dillon

Cassandra Foret

Danielle Nicole Godin

Lanah Hobbs Hale

Alaina Leigh-Ting Heidebreicht

Haley Hogan

Christopher Michael Holden

Omicron Delta Kappa

Cumberland University Circle

Leadership and Scholarship Honor Society

Dr. Sheridan W. S. Henson, Sponsor

Graduating Members

Jacob Randall Hood

Emily Claire Hopkins

Abby Nicole Howard

Raeanne Elaine Jenkins

Luke Kristopher Lawson

Alexander Hackett Linville

Carissa Carrigan Lurie

Alexia Rae Malave

Maddox Marlin

Keith Scott McNamara

Christopher Trevor Napier

Emilin Mariana Olivares Rebollar

Jessica Marie Ortiz

Zachary M. Plese

Guiselle Marie Quiel de Scott

Tristin Hope Reeves

Nicole Olivia Rose

Order of Omega

National Greek Leadership Honor Society

Dr. Sheridan W. S. Henson, Sponsor

Graduating Members

Andrew Jefferson Bramble

Leslie Elizabeth Davis

Abby Nicole Howard

Kaden Reid Buck

Sarah Grace Conrad

Eleanor Russell

Kyrillos Saad

Daniel Scherf

Arsheen Shroff

Andrew Smith

Harris Morris Smith III

Chelsea Jean Sterne

Nathan Thomas

Alexandria Trull

Amé Azora Van Eijk

Mira G. Van Hooreweghe

Jessica Virginia Ware

Megan Emily Wilkinson

Laura Lynn Williams

Kathryn Carmen Wright

Alexander Hackett Linville

Topanga Scism

Phi Alpha Theta

Altpha Xi Tau Chapter

History Honors Society

Dr. Natalie Inman, Sponsor

Graduating Members

Ethan Joseph McCarter

Andrew Miller

Alexus Grace Turner

Kathryn Carmen Wright

Leslie Elizabeth Davis

Melanie Garcia

Estie Caroline Holman

Parker E. Arvin

Kayden Rein Buck

Gabriella Naomi Clapa

Audrey Alana Gordon

Mark Edward Hanshaw, Jr.

Alaina Leigh-Ting Heidebreicht

Ana Lopez

Gabriella Naomi Clapa

Allie Isabel Clark

Ana Cheree Gupton

Zoi Layna Harris

Alaina Leigh-Ting Heidebreicht

Emily Clair Hopkins

Abby Nicole Howard

Gabriella Clapa

Hannah Crouch

Mariam Davis

Philomathian Society

Dr. Sean McDaniel, Sponsor

Graduating Members

Carissa Carrigan Lurie

Maddox Marlin

Lily Beth McPeak

Pi Gamma Mu

Tennessee Lambda Chapter

Social Science Honor Society

Dr. Tara Mitchell Mielnik, Sponsor

Graduating Members

Carissa Carrigan Lurie

Ethan Joseph McCarter

Aurora Emery Merren

Andrew R. Miller

Ashnaley Taylor Mystal

Emilin Mariana Olivares

Tristin Hope Reeves

Psi Chi

Honor Society in Psychology

Dr. Chelsea Sterne, Sponsor

Graduating Members

Carissa Carrigan Lurie

Tara Mitchell Mielnik

Ashnaley Mystal

Emilin Mariana Olivares

Rebollar

Tristin Hope Reeves

Eleanor Russell

Sigma Tau Delta

Alpha Delta Mu Chapter

English Honor Society

Dr. Sara Hays, Sponsor

Graduating Members

Mia Harris

Maddox Marlin

Jessica Ortiz

Emilin Mariana Olivares

Rebollar

Megan Emily Wilkinson

Chelsea Jean Sterne

Lauren Margaret Stevison

Hallie Anne Teel

Alexus Grace Turner

Kathryn Carmen Wright

Morgan Lindsey Snead

Chelsea Jean Sterne

Lauren M. Stevison

Hallie Anne Teel

Alexandria Trull

Amé Azora Van Eijk

Tristin Reeves

Leonydes Matis

Hailey Alanna Bagsby

Abbey Renee Benson

Taylor Faith Bertotti

Ashley Elizabeth Cauthen

Julea Rose Cavazos

Starlette Cole

Makayla Madison Crook

Alicia Dawn Dillon

Sigma Theta Tau

Alpha Alpha Kappa Chapter

Nursing Honor Society

Dr. Beth Chatham, Sponsor

Graduating Members

Mayleigh Caroline Douglas

Courtni Taylor Hammers

Danielle Rae Hazen

Jennifer Gale Helm

Vernita Lynn Holmes

Laci Nicole Johnson

Marissa Delia Juarez

Kathleen Teresa Kearney

Sydni Rhea Lening

Rachel Elizabeth Norrod

Olivia Paige Ray

Sierra Guadalupe Rodriguez

Mason Frederick Smith

Liliana Vicente

Annitrice Young

2025-2026 UNIVERSITY AWARDS

Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award – Community Teresa Chasteen-Dunn, Ph.D. & Lanny Dunn

Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award – Student...............................Maddox Marlin & Leslie Elizabeth Davis

Faculty Award of Excellence Eleanor Russell

President’s Award..............................................................................................Jackson Whitmore Bone

President’s Award for Teaching Excellence

Alumni Awards

Dr. Stuart E. Harris

Distinguished Alumni Award ........................................................................................ Dr. Joshua Sevier

Rising Phoenix Award Jamie Fleming

Award of Excellence - Labry School of Science, Technology, and Business...................Heather Landers Award of Excellence - Oakley School of Humanities, Education, and the Arts Alice Dorothy Sullivan Award of Excellence - Rudy School of Nursing and Health Professions ..................... Michelle Zuercher

Posthumous Distinguished Alumni Award Max H. Goldschein

Athletic Awards

Lindsey Donnell Scholar-Athlete Award Hazel Rae Konkel

President’s Award for Excellence in Athletics João Infante

Student Affairs Awards

Ms. Cumberland.............................................................................................................. Eleanor Russell

Mr. Cumberland Maddox Marlin

Most Outstanding Faculty Member ................................................................................Dr. Valerie King

Most Outstanding Staff Member Que’Asia Berry

Most Outstanding Support Staff Member......................................................................Jimmy Trammel

Holcomb Award Holly Gothard

Student Development Appreciation Award........................................... Aaron Bellar & Kallie Matthews

IMPACT Award Sigma Chi Fraternity

Distinguished Student Award ....................................................... Zackary Stroebert & Raeanne Jenkins

International Student Award (Undergraduate) Arne Sohmer

International Student Award (Graduate).......................................................Giovanna Dos Santos Sena

Multicultural Inclusion Award

Jully Maria Cure Garcia

Outstanding Intern Award...................................................................................................Ethan Garcia

Career Services Award João Infante

Excellence in Peer Tutoring ............................................................Hailey Hawthorne & Eleanor Russell

President Ambassador of the Year Maddox Marlin and Eleanor Russell

Residence Life

Resident Assistant of the Year...........................................................................................Grace Deckert

Residence Life Coordinator of the Year Hope Britt

Resident Assistant Distinguished Service Award ..................................................................Libby Knight

Greek Affairs

Greek Affairs President’s Cup

Kappa Sigma

P. Henry Meadows Award .............................................................Cameron Fuller of Alpha Omicron Pi

P. Henry Meadows Award Hakeme El-Amin of Omega Psi Phi

Greek Community Service Award........................................................................................Kappa Sigma

Greek Academic Award Alpha Sigma Tau

Greek Philanthropy Award

Kappa Sigma

Greek Athletics Award Omega Psi Phi

Greek Recruitment Award Alpha Omicron Pi

Greek New Member of the Year

Phoebe Benton of Alpha Sigma Tau

Greek Olympics Champions Omega Psi Phi

Charles Monty Pope Phoenix Rising Award

Chapter Leader of the Year

Phi Beta Sigma

Cameron Fuller of Alpha Omicron Pi

Chapter Leader of the Year ...............................................................Hakeme El-Amin of Omega Psi Phi

Greek Affairs Honorary Membership

Living Your Ritual Award

Erin Morris-Benson, The Art of Life

Alpha Omicron Pi – Danielle Dunaway

Alpha Sigma Tau – Phoebe Benton

Kappa Sigma – Brad Cullen

Phi Beta Sigma – Tylann Orr

Omega Psi Phi – Hakeme El-Amin

Sigma Chi – Maddox Marlin

Student Organizations

CU Spirit Award Estela Hurtado-Escoto Community Service Award Whitney Simpson & Wesley Fellowship

Best Campus Event Courtyard with the Greeks and Foam Dance Party

Best Community Event Faith Fest Event with BCM, FCA, Wesley, UCAT, and Student Life

Best New Event(s) ......................................................................................... Barn Dance and Color Run

Organization Award for Programming & Participation

Baptist Collegiate Ministry

Rising Phoenix Organization Award Investment Club

Edward A. Labry School of Science, Technology, and Business

Most Outstanding Performance Award Jackson Bone in Business Administration

Most Outstanding Performance Award in Accounting Leslie Elizabeth Davis

Jack E. Forrest Marketing Award Layla Leigh Young

Most Outstanding Performance in Management Jared Justin Maldonado

Most Outstanding Performance Award..........................Kailen Victoria Donoho & Brianna Nicole Sobo in Health Care Administration

Most Outstanding Performance Award..............................................................................Sarai Sanchez by a Freshman in Business Administration

Most Outstanding Award in Project Management.............................................................. Kierra White

William McShain Award Lucrezia Bandini

Most Outstanding Performance in Associate of Arts in Business Juan Jimenez

Wilbur “Pete” Peterson Most Promising Biologist Award Estie Holman

Danny Bryan Outstanding Student in General Biology Marlee Bailiff

Most Promising Performance in Biomedical Science Kyrillos Saad & David Tran

Most Outstanding Performance in Biochemistry Madeline Brillhart

Most Outstanding Performance in Chemistry Carlos Diaz Diaz

J.O. Baird Chemistry Award Joseph Parisi

Outstanding Calculus Student Harley Kaylen Ritter

Robert H. “Bobby” Nichols, Jr. ......................................................................................... Rachel Kellogg

Outstanding General Physics Student

Outstanding Information Technology Student.....................................................................João Infante

Pre-Professional Society Award Melanie Garcia

Most Outstanding Performance Award in MBA Ben Artime

Jeanette C. Rudy School of Nursing and Health Professions Awards

Jeanette C. Rudy Award in Nursing (December) Julea Cavazos

Jeanette C. Rudy Award in Nursing (May) Destiny Tapp

Leadership Award in Nursing (December) Alicia Dillon

Leadership Award in Nursing (May) ................................................................................. Abbey Benson

Outstanding Nursing Clinician Award (December) Courtni Hammers & Lea Rodgers

Outstanding Nursing Clinician Award (May) Cassidy Reed

Horizon Nursing Award (December) Destiny Tapp

Horizon Nursing Award (May) Galileo Zamora Roque

Achievement in Nursing (December) Audrey McClard & David Velazquez Chavez

Fay G. McRady Achievement in Nursing (May) Vernia Holmes & Mason Smith

Outstanding Achievement in Exercise and Sport Science (Undergraduate) Hannah Thornell

Outstanding Achievement in Exercise and Sport Science (Graduate) Bryleigh Yarbrough

Outstanding Student in Sport Management (Undergraduate) Caitlyn Bilham

Outstanding Student in Sport Management (Graduate) Syndey Herman

MSN Distinction Award for Excellence Halle Pavan

Outstanding Student in Athletic Training Hazel Konkel

Nathan Johnson Award for Professional Engagement Boston Follis and Ja’Maria Rutherford

Casey McGee Award for Clinical Excellence .....................................................................Brody Johnson

Excellence in Attitude, Demeanor, Engagement Joseph Moore

Millard and J.J. Oakley School of Humanities, Education, and the Arts Awards

Future Educator Award (Undergraduate) ......................................................................Megan Edwards

Future Educator Award (Graduate) Holly Gothard

Irvin F. Bass Excellence in Education Award........................................Karlie Jenkins & Marisa Heckman

Mary Argo McKee Award (Undergraduate) Theressa Anderson

Mary Argo McKee Award (Graduate)........................................................................... Denisse Edwards

Sam Finch Special Education Award (Undergraduate) Chloe Lemos

Sam Finch Special Education Award (Graduate).............................................................. Joshua Betcher

Future Leader Award

Haley Pitcock Douglass

Outstanding Secondary Educator Award (Undergraduate).............................................Skyla Hall-Black

Outstanding Secondary Educator Award (Graduate) Sean McConnell

Freshman Award in English ....................................................................................................Gabby Orsi

Research Award in English

Max Berkey Award in English ..............................................................................................................Maddox Marlin

Cale Young Rice Award for Poetry Leonydes Matis

Richard and Virginia Lawlor Award for Creative Non-Fiction .............................................Nataya Wade

William Bowen Campbell Award in American History

Andrew Miller

History Associates of Wilson County Award....................................................................Kathryn Wright

Cavett World History Award Tyler Mattone

James P. Dressler History Award ................................................................................ Makena Crumbley

Charlene Kozy Award in Criminal Justice Ruairi Behan & Lilliana Martinez-Franco

John W. Burgess Award in Political Science............................... Summer Gilbreath & Zackary Stroebert

Thomas H. Shriver Outstanding Senior Award in Criminal Justice

Terrence Harris

Carl Rogers Humanitarian Award in Psychology....................Emilin Olivares Rebollar & Gabriella Clapa

William James Psychological Sciences Award Eleanor Russell

Cumberland University Concert Band Award Kayla Whyte

Cumberland University Jazz Ensemble Award Madelyn Leyhew

Instrumentalist of the Year Award Freedom Nash

Vocal Performance Award Ally Barnett

Cumberland Chorale Award Christina Shandor

University Singers Award Alex Sain

Excellence in Theater Performance Award ........................................................................... Braden Bell

Excellence in Theatre Production Taylor Matson

Theatre Leadership Award Alex Sain

Award in Fine Art Sion Agee

Al Ashworth Award in Photography Emily Bell

Alice Hegan Rice Award for Fiction Ashley Wood

The Phoenix Award for Sociology & Social Awareness Ana Lopez, Liliana Martinez-Franco, and Emily Claire Hopkins

The NOVUS Outstanding Editor Award Leonydes Matis

The Mitchell Mielnik Award in Public History Alexis Tomlinson

Aaron S. Crawford Award for Research and Documentary Editing Kathryn Wright

Tommy P. Thompson Award in Criminal Justice Lily McPeak

Resurgam Award in Criminal Justice Fallon Polasek

ADMINISTRATION OF THE UNIVERSITY

Paul C. Stumb, IV, Ph.D. President

C. William McKee, Ed.D.. ............................................

Reggie R. Blair, M.S.

Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs

Vice President for Enrollment Services

Mark E. Hanshaw, Ph.D., J.D......................................................Associate Provost and General Counsel

Ronald P. Pavan, M.A.

Vice President for Athletics and Vice President for Facilities and Services

David A. Runyan, M.B.A Chief Financial Officer

Courtney K. Wheeler-Biggs, J.D. ...........................................................Vice President for Advancement

James D. Shulman, J.D.

Dean, Labry School of Science, Technology, and Business

Jason S. Grindstaff, Ph.D..................................... Dean, Rudy School of Nursing and Health Professions

Jenny L. Mason, Ph.D.

Dean, Oakley School of Humanities, Education, and the Arts

Stephanie R. Davis, M.S.P. ............................................................................................Dean of Students

Virginia H. Bennett, M.B.A.

Joey A. Clark, M.ED

Laurie P. Dishman, Ph.D.

Stephen A. Giordano, M.S.P.

Sheridan W. S. Henson, Ed.D.

Executive Director of Advancement

Executive Director of Marketing and Communications

Executive Director of Institutional Effectiveness

Executive Director of Housing and Services

Executive Director of Academic Support

Beatrice M. LaChance, M.B.A. ..........................................Executive Director Student Financial Services

Abby H. Pitts, Ed.D.

Executive Director of Student Support

William R. Richardson, M.S.P. M.B.A. ...........................Executive Director of Community Relations and External Affairs

Kari E. Smith, M.S.P. ..............................................................

Leslie L. Steele, M.S.P.

Mr. William Joseph Adams

Mr. Matthew Ashwood

Mr. Hal Bone*

Mr. Winstead P. Bone, III*

Dr. André Churchwell

Dr. Teresa Chasteen-Dunn

Ms. Cathy F. Gracey*

Mr. J. Roderick Heller, III

Executive Director of Enrollment Services

Executive Director, Office of the President

THE BOARD OF TRUST

Mr. J. Samuel Hatcher*, Chairman

Mr. Michael Moscardelli, Vice Chairman

Ms. Jessica Fain*, Secretary

Ms. Patricia Hunt

Mr. Jack D. “J.D.” Lowery

Mr. John McDearman

Mr. Robert L. McDonald

Ms. Cecelia Moore

Mr. Thomas P. Pate

Dr. C. Wright Pinson

Mr. Justin Pitt

Emeriti

Honorable Robert N. Clement

Mr. J. Randall Clemons*

*Cumberland Graduate

Chairman Emeritus

Dr. Edward L. Thackston

Mr. Rob E. Porter

Dr. G. Edward Powell, Jr.

Mr. Mark G. Riggins*

Dr. Heather Stafford*

Mr. Marc Suarez*

Mr. Bill L. Vallett

Mr. David A. Vise

Dr. Robert N. Vero

Honorable Albert A. Gore, Jr.

Honorable AC Wharton, Jr.

A

Founded in 1842, Cumberland University holds a unique place in American history as one of the oldest liberal art universities in the South. Founded by leaders of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, Cumberland established a Law school, the first in Tennessee west of the Appalachian Mountains, a school of Engineering, and a school of Theology during the mid-1800s.

Cumberland was impacted by The Civil War when University Hall was burned to the ground during Union occupancy. After the destruction, a student wrote across a ruined Corinthian column the Latin word Resurgam, which translates to “I will arise.” Thus, from the ashes, the mythical phoenix became Cumberland’s enduring symbol which inspires the university to rise, endure, prosper, and illuminate the world. In 1892, Cumberland moved to its present location.

In 1946, The Tennessee Baptist Convention assumed control of the University, ending a century of operation under the Presbyterian Church. In 1956, the Board of Trust secured an amendment to the Charter, changed the institution to a private, independent corporation, and reopened the College of Arts and Sciences as a two-year institution, known as Cumberland College of Tennessee.

The Board of Trust expanded the academic programs of the Junior College in 1982. This expansion returned Cumberland to a four-year, degree-granting institution known again as Cumberland University. Its alumni include 14 governors, more than 80 members of the United States Congress, two United States Supreme Court Justices, three United States Ambassadors, a United States Secretary of State, Nobel Peace Prize Winner, and founder of the United Nations.

Today, Cumberland continues to evolve to meet the needs of a diverse and expanding community while providing a transformational higher education experience through more than 100 fully accredited academic programs of study in three distinct schools.

Cumberland University draws on its enduring spirit of excellence to provide students from all backgrounds with a rounded education that is intensely personal, intellectually challenging, future focused and dedicated to preparing every individual for a meaningful career and fulfilling life.

The mission of Cumberland University is to provide a personalized, high-quality, value-based educational experience that equips learners to lead, serve, and excel in an ever-evolving world.

The University’s vision is to transform lives through the power of education.