Honoring Excellence: The 2025 Undergraduate Achievement Award Recipients

Each year, Sigma Alpha Mu recognizes undergraduates whose leadership, scholarship, and character distinguish them as outstanding representatives of our Fraternity. The 2025 Undergraduate Achievement Awards celebrate three remarkable individuals—a sophomore, junior, and senior—who exemplify dedication to academic excellence, campus impact, and personal integrity. Across different chapters and campuses, their accomplishments reflect the best of what it means to lead with purpose.

Sophomore Recipient: Paris Phan

Beta Psi – University of Virginia

A scholar, researcher, and mentor, Paris Phan has already achieved more in two years at the University of Virginia than many accomplish in four. Pursuing a rigorous double major in Computer Science and Mathematics, Paris has maintained an exceptional academic record while pushing the boundaries of emerging technologies.

His research spans machine learning, data science, medical applications, and human-robot interaction— fields where his findings are already generating meaningful impact. Paris is not only a gifted student; he is a generous teacher. His chapter brothers shared that his commitment to mentoring others, leading labs, and offering support reflects a genuine desire to help those around him grow.

Paris’ curiosity, humility, and drive for excellence make him a standout member of the Beta Psi Chapter and a deserving honoree this year.

Junior Recipient: Ben Sherman

Sigma Theta- University of Texas at Austin

At the University of Texas, Ben Sherman has emerged as a powerful force for student engagement and community leadership. As co-founder and chairman of the Advisory Board for Longhorn Students for Israel (LSFI), he helped build the only independent, student-led Israeli organization on campus—one grounded in grassroots collaboration, advocacy, and meaningful dialogue.

Ben’s work with LSFI includes organizing impactful events, fostering community among students, and developing partnerships with national and local organizations. Beyond LSFI, he serves on the advisory and executive staff for the UT student body president and vice president, contributing his perspective and leadership to broader campus initiatives.

Ben’s commitment to civic engagement and student advocacy reflects his belief in strengthening community through education, partnership, and purpose. His achievements represent the significant marks undergraduates can make when they channel passion into action.

Senior Recipient: Charlie Nirenstein

Kappa - University of Minnesota

When Charlie Nirenstein joined the Kappa Chapter, it was facing challenges—low membership, low morale, and an uncertain future. Through exceptional determination and vision, Charlie became a catalyst for transformative change.

As Rush Chair and later Prior, he rebuilt Kappa’s culture from the inside out, emphasizing inclusion, intention, and shared values. His innovative approach to recruitment blended personal connections with digital strategy and ultimately led to the chapter doubling in size. More importantly, Charlie fostered a renewed sense of purpose and community that continues to shape the chapter today.

Beyond his chapter contributions, Charlie excelled academically at the Carlson School of Management, played an active role in Jewish life on campus, and championed emotional and mental well-being— supporting peers with compassion and accountability. His chapter noted that he didn’t just keep the chapter afloat; he helped it thrive.

Charlie’s leadership, integrity, and impact make him a model representative of Sigma Alpha Mu, and the Fraternity is proud to recognize him as the senior Undergraduate Achievement Award recipient.

These three recipients—Paris Phan, Ben Sherman, and Charlie Nirenstein—reflect the strength and promise of Sigma Alpha Mu today. Through scholarship, leadership, and service, each has demonstrated what is possible when talent meets dedication. Their accomplishments inspire us, and their stories pave the way for future generations of Sammies.