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 has been a source of inspiration and
Paris’ curiosity, humility, and drive for excellence make him a standout member of the Beta Psi Chapter and a deserving honoree this year.
support, mentoring peers with humility and patience.”
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.
Octagonian
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.
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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. 16
“Ben’s leadership has helped create a community of engaged and empowered students at UT Austin.” SAM.ORG