The Founders Award

Stephanie Chavez

Stephanie Chavez is a dedicated future educator, advocate, and community leader whose commitment to educational equity and public service has shaped their academic journey and earned them several honors.

Their work in education advocacy has included lobbying legislators in Washington, D.C., serving as a congressional intern and campaign finance associate, and championing initiatives that strengthen public education and expand opportunities for future teachers.

A first-generation college student with deep roots in community advocacy, they are passionate about dismantling barriers to education and creating pathways for students from historically underserved backgrounds. Whether organizing future educators, mentoring students, or advocating for equitable educational policy, they exemplify the values of leadership, service, and justice. They plan to continue this work as an educator and lifelong advocate for public education and student empowerment.

Alejandra Galvan

Alejandra Galvan is completing a double major in Psychology and Spanish with minors in French and World Literatures & Cultures. A dedicated scholar and leader, and the recipient of numerous awards and honors, they have consistently demonstrated a commitment to social justice and community building. Their academic journey is marked by a deep passion for research that serves a greater purpose; they have presented findings on migrant mental health, political discourse via textile art, and student belonging to prestigious bodies, including the Elmhurst University Board of Trustees and the National Collegiate Honors Council.

Beyond the classroom, Alejandra serves as a vital support system for their peers and the broader community. As a Resident Advisor and Peer Leader, they have prioritized building genuine connections and helping new students navigate the transitions of college life. Their volunteerism extends to supporting refugees through the EXODUS program, co-founding a literacy project for Latinx high school students, and interning at a Family Resource Center to provide outreach to low-income families in multiple languages. Through their roles in the Honors Program and as an aspiring clinical psychologist, Alejandra embodies the University’s values of inclusion and excellence, striving to give a voice to vulnerable populations and foster a future of collective hope.

Mateo Gomez Bedoya

Graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in World Language Education with a concentration in Spanish Mateo Gomez Bedoya has earned a 3.9 GPA and a place on the Dean’s List every semester, while also building an impressive record of civic engagement.

Guided by a deep personal faith, their service has extended far beyond the classroom. As president of both Kappa Delta Pi and Alpha Mu Gamma, Mateo led blanket drives for children’s hospitals, organized book donations for elementary schools, and coordinated handwritten card campaigns and toy deliveries for students in low-income communities. They served on a mission trip to Florida and traveled to Puerto Rico to meet with religious leaders and community activists, deepening their understanding of faith as a catalyst for social change. As an OSL, Mateo helped incoming students find their footing, and through the NCHC Partners-in-the-Parks program engaged with peers on themes of environmental responsibility and global citizenship. In addition, their undergraduate research developed interactive language teaching resources designed to increase access and equity for ESL learners.

Mateo’s consistent, faith-driven convictions demonstrate that showing up for others is both a privilege and a responsibility, and that education and service are the same calling.

Netochukwu Kalu

A Bachelor of Arts in Sports Management major with minors in Business Administration and Communications, Netochukwu Kalu is an international student and Global Scholar who has maintained a 3.987 GPA on an academic journey that, among other impressive achievements, has taken them to Liverpool and the National Conference on Undergraduate Research.

What sets Neto apart, however, is the breadth and consistency of their service to the Elmhurst University community. As Public Relations Chair of the International Students’ Association, they worked to ensure that students felt at home on campus and that global perspectives reached the wider student body. Through four years of leadership in the Honors Organization, they organized community service initiatives including a partnership with EXODUS World Services and Night Ministry for newly-resettled refugees and those experiencing homelessness. As Vice President of CRU, they helped create a space for meaningful reflection and connection. As Social Media Marketing Intern for the Office of Student Involvement, they amplified campus programming and student engagement, and supported the ODK Graduation Regalia Drive, volunteered at athletics events, and led the annual honors retreat, all while working in the campus mailroom and founding their own sports media platform in Nigeria.

Neto embodies the spirit of this award in the truest sense, by giving generously of time, leadership, and heart to make Elmhurst University a more welcoming, connected, and compassionate place, not because it was required, but because they believe every student deserves to feel they belong.

Jackelyn Lopez Barrera

Jackelyn Lopez Barrera is a dedicated nursing student who has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the Elmhurst University community. As a first-generation college student, they have prioritized creating supportive spaces for their peers, notably serving as the 2026 Class Representative for the nursing program. In this capacity, they act as a vital link between students and faculty, advocating for the concerns of their classmates and fostering clear communication.

Beyond their academic leadership, Jackelyn has been a cornerstone of support for the veteran population on campus, drawing on a military background that has deeply informed their approach to service and leadership. They serve as an advisor and have previously held the role of President for the Student Veterans Association, where they assist fellow veterans in navigating the transition from military service to higher education.

Academically distinguished, Jackelyn maintains a 3.74 GPA. Their commitment to global perspectives is evidenced by their selection as a Gilman International Scholarship recipient, which allowed them to study abroad and gain a broader understanding of global health. As Jackelyn prepare to graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a minor in Psychology, they continue to embody the values of service and community advocacy that define the Founders’ Award.

Zeel Mody

Zeel Mody is a December 2025 graduate, earning a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with minors in Psychology and Business Administration. Throughout their undergraduate career, they embodied a “Plan A only” work ethic, transitioning from a hesitant commuter student to a prominent campus trailblazer. They held significant leadership roles, including President and Parliamentarian of the Student Government Association, as well as Destinations Chair for the Union Board. In these positions, they focused on building a sense of belonging for first-generation and commuter students, ensuring diverse voices remained at the center of institutional decision-making. Their commitment to the campus community was further reflected in their roles as a Peer Academic Advisor and a student-athlete on the Women’s Wrestling team.

Beyond the University gates, Zeel has demonstrated a profound dedication to civic engagement and public service. They served as a court watcher for Chicago Votes, documenting courtroom proceedings to promote transparency and protect constitutional rights. Preparing for a career in law enforcement, Zeel completed internships with the Naperville and Addison Police Departments. As a first-generation student from a South Asian background, they embrace the responsibility of being a bridge between immigrant communities and public institutions, and strive to lead with equity and compassion.

John Odom

John Odom is an accomplished student-athlete who has demonstrated a profound commitment to service leadership and academic excellence. Inspired by the example of their father and their personal faith, John has dedicated significant time to mentoring others and fostering community growth. Their leadership is most evident through their roles as a captain of the football team and a member of the Football Leadership Council, where they guide teammates in both sport and spiritual development. Beyond the field, they serve as a student leader for CRU/AIA and volunteer with their church’s youth ministry.

In addition to John’s extensive community involvement, they have maintained an exceptional academic record, appearing on the Dean’s List and receiving the Phi Theta Kappa Excellence Scholarship. They have also been recognized twice as a member of the CSC Academic All-District Team. Despite these accolades, they remain humble, viewing their current service as a foundation for even greater future contributions to those in need. Through their combined efforts in the classroom, on the field, and in the community, John embodies the spirit of the Founders Award by modeling a life of integrity and selflessness.

Olaminposi Marvelous Ogunbiyi

Olaminposi Marvelous Ogunbiyi is a Cybersecurity major who has maintained a distinguished 3.9 GPA and earned induction into the Phi Kappa Phi honor society. Driven by their own experience as an international student from Nigeria, they have made it their mission to ensure every student feels a sense of belonging on campus. Marvelous currently serves as President of the International Student Association, where they lead initiatives to strengthen the international community, and as a Peer Advisor, guiding freshmen through the complexities of college transition. Their commitment to service is remarkably broad, spanning roles as a Physics and Computer Science Peer Tutor, an IT Technician, and a Library Circulation Desk worker.

Beyond these formal leadership positions, Marvelous consistently seeks innovative ways to improve student life, notably earning second place in the Bluejay Shark Tank competition for their EasyJay app concept. They further contribute to the campus spirit by photographing basketball games and supporting students with differing abilities as a teaching assistant for the ELSA program. Whether welcoming new students at the airport or troubleshooting technology to remove barriers to learning, Marvelous views service as “love in action”, and their multifaceted contributions and academic excellence reflect a profound dedication to the Elmhurst University community.

John Pinns

John Pinns is a graduating senior majoring in Music Business with a minor in Jazz Studies. Throughout their four years at the institution, they have demonstrated a profound commitment to leadership and community service. A cornerstone of John’s collegiate experience has been their involvement with the Elmhurst University Jazz Band, where they have not only performed but also served as social media manager and mentor to younger musicians, fostering a culture of accountability and dedication. Their leadership extends to the EU Jazz Festival, where they held the role of stage manager for the 2025 and 2026 events.

In addition to John’s work within the Music Department, they have held leadership positions as the head producer for MBSU’s Office Hours and as stage manager for Spring Playback. Their academic and musical excellence is reflected in a 3.305 GPA and numerous prestigious honors, including the Gretsch, Doug Beach Jazz, and Founder’s Scholarships among others. Beyond campus, they have gained professional experience as an Inbounds Technician for Live Entertainment Chicago and an intern at the Metropolis Performing Arts Center. An accomplished performer, John has graced world-renowned stages such as Carnegie Hall, Symphony Center, and Ravinia, and aims to use their burgeoning career to continue inspiring the next generation of musical leaders.

Naomi Rondolo

Naomi Rondolo’s journey to a degree in nursing with a minor in Psychology, with a distinction as an Honors Program Scholar, has taken them through clinical rotations at leading institutions across the Chicago area. On campus, they serve as President of the Elmhurst University Honors Organization, a Peer Advisor in the Office of Advising, and the Coordinator of the Peer Undergraduate Nursing Mentorship program.

Rooted in their faith community, Naomi has devoted themself to mentoring youth, organizing local outreach, and extending that mission globally. In the summer of 2024, they traveled to Manila to speak at an international conference attended by 500 participants, and continued their ministry in Palawan by sharing their personal testimony and message of perseverance in the face of hardship with young people there.

Naomi’s global commitment did not end after returning home, where they mobilized their church community to collect clothing, food, and financial support for families affected by catastrophic typhoons in the Philippines. They continue to support a partner ministry in Bulacan, a reflection of their belief that “global service does not end when a trip is over” and to demonstrate that true service knows no borders.

Bahome Seraphin

Bahome Seraphin is completing a Bachelor of Science, majoring in computer science with minors in physics and mathematics. They maintain a distinguished academic record with a 3.913 GPA and have demonstrated a profound commitment to leveraging technology for global impact. Their technical expertise was notably recognized during the 2025 NASA International Space Apps Challenge, where their team earned the “Galactic Impact” award for developing a machine learning application to identify exoplanets. This drive to solve complex problems is further reflected in Bahome’s collaborative research projects, such as simulating coupled harmonic oscillations and developing dynamic web applications.

Bahome’s dedication to service is deeply rooted in their personal history as a former resident of the Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya. Before coming to Elmhurst, they served as a teacher at Greenlight High School within the camp, where they provided both academic instruction in STEM subjects and critical emotional support to students who had experienced trauma. On campus, they continue to foster community and inclusion through leadership roles, serving as the Vice President of the Cricket Club, where they helped increase membership by 30%, and as the Secretary of the Computer Science Club. Driven by their experiences with displacement and limited resources, Bahome aspires to develop technologies that expand access to knowledge and support underserved communities worldwide.

Eli Spence

Eli Spence is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies with minors in Biology and Economics. Maintaining a 3.88 GPA, they have balanced rigorous academic pursuits with significant leadership roles, most notably serving as a three-year captain of the men’s lacrosse team. Under Eli’s leadership, the team achieved four consecutive semesters of record-breaking GPAs, reflecting a commitment to a culture of collective excellence and accountability. Their dedication to the University community is further evidenced by their involvement in the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, where they worked to bridge the gap between athletics and the broader student body through initiatives like the Elmhurst Homecoming Parade and Special Olympics events.

Beyond campus, they have represented Elmhurst University on the national stage as a two-time USILA All-American and a multi-year Academic All-District honoree. They have applied their environmental expertise to impactful projects, including conducting recycling audits for the Forest Preserve District of Cook County and consulting on municipal waste strategies for the City of Elmhurst. Whether leading teammates on the field or analyzing sustainability data, Eli views service as a standard to be upheld. Their time at Elmhurst has been defined by a goal to leave a lasting impact by investing in the peers and community that allowed them to thrive.

• 2025: Lily Morgan, Sarah Hansen, Christian Tomás Guzaro Cruz
• 2024: Rachel Fratt, Payton Schmidt, Paul Sebedyn
• 2023: Doodly Garcia, Allison Skiple, Wesley Nay
• 2022: Anayeli Huerta, Norbaya Durr, Juan Sandoval
• 2021: Laura Rusk, Ana Romo, Afaaf Amatullah

• 2020: Shawndell Young, Emily Marquez, Becca Kaltenbach
• 2019: Katrina Mioduszewski, Natalie Barnes, Jentry Schirmbeck
• 2018: Nora Dixon, Estrella Vargas, Rebecca Vogt
• 2017: Natalie Bedtke, Rebecca Britt, Georgia Petersen
• 2016: Christine Croft, Faith Powell, Megan Walsen
• 2015:  Meredithe Mimlitz, Chelsea Karson, Jose Flores
• 2014: Stanley Washington, Colin Clark, Eleni Vrettos, Rachel Trumpy
• 2013: Matthew Rohde, Colin Ashwood, Jazmine Martinez
• 2012: Allyson Vertigan, Mohammed Kaiser Adam, Annice Coughlan, Kimberly Pitingolo
• 2011: Romison Saint-Louis, Rachel Nelson, Amanda Ceaser, Julie Provenza

• 2010: Elizabeth Glass, Zayna Thompson McCollum, Daniel Zarlenga
• 2009: Soofia Ahmed, Melanie Giannosa, Jessica Sullivan
• 2008: Inga Ezerins, Heather Forster, Laura Yurs
• 2007: Melissa Allen, Brian Paladie
• 2006: Eliza Stoddard Leatherberry, Rochelle Ruzicka
• 2005: Stephen Hurley, D. Scott Tharp
• 2004: Sarah Kiefer, Lindsay Young
• 2003: Kelly Stone, Megan Suess
• 2002: Sara Douglass, Julie Maxwell
• 2001: Jennifer Newson, Emilie Steve

• 2000: Emily Kline, Julie Mather, Laurie Rich
• 1999: Any Wendt Ruby, Rebecca Rosenmayer
• 1998: Kristopher Hewitt, Marti Lansu
• 1997: LaShawn Jakes, Florence Nogaj
• 1996: Mary Tubbs
• 1995: Gretchen Gehrlein
• 1994: Joan Kay
• 1993: Eric Lindberg
• 1992: Julie Justice
• 1991: Alisa Lillquist

• 1990: Sarah Strom
• 1989: William Richter
• 1988: Colleen Reichel
• 1987: Shaheen Chamran
• 1986: Patricia Badten
• 1985: Larry Mohr