Our members participate in volunteer events and take part in a wide range of community service initiatives. Upon graduation, they apply the interpersonal skills they’ve acquired to start businesses, pursue promotions, and more, using what they have learned to Build Leaders Who Make a Better World.
Check out the headlines made by NSLS members who used their leadership skills to level up in their careers, earn outstanding academic honors, and help make a positive impact on their communities this month.
Standout Student-Athlete Earns Senior Scholar-Athlete Award
Juniata College volleyball star Audrey Muth has capped off a storied collegiate career with the Landmark Conference Women’s Volleyball Senior Scholar-Athlete honor. The award reflects her exceptional balance of academic achievement and athletic excellence.
A four-time Landmark All-Conference selection and key contributor to three NCAA Division III national championships, Muth has earned multiple All-America and All-Region honors throughout her career. Equally impressive is her academic record, maintaining a 3.76 GPA while majoring in campus ministry education with an English minor.
Beyond the classroom and the court, Muth has invested deeply in community service, volunteering with faith formation programs, local schools, the MLK Day of Service, and the Special Olympics for four consecutive years.
Read More from Juniata College > >
Government and Juvenile Services Leader Honored for Excellence
Tiffani A. Johnson, Colorado Technical University, has built a remarkable career across government, military, and public service leadership. Now serving as deputy secretary of support services for the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services, she helps oversee operations across 11 major units, guiding agency-wide strategy and administrative excellence.
Johnson’s career spans key roles in state and federal government, including positions with the Department of the Navy and the U.S. Army, where she served as a military police officer and program manager. Her commitment to service also extends to her community, where she mentors young women, supports veteran-focused organizations, and contributes to local food banks.
Her achievements have earned numerous distinctions, including the 2024 Empowering Women Award and multiple military commendations recognizing her leadership and resilience.
Read More from Marquis Who’s Who >>
Biology and Psychology Double Major Named Researcher of the Month
Mariami Kochiashvili, Stony Brook University, has been recognized as Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (URECA) Researcher of the Month for her work examining how deep brain stimulation (DBS) affects motor and facial movements in people with Parkinson’s disease.
Her research uses advanced motion-capture and facial analysis tools to better understand how patients respond to DBS treatment, insights that could improve long-term therapeutic outcomes. Kochiashvili has already presented her findings at multiple conferences, showcasing the depth and promise of her work.
Her commitment to scientific discovery, combined with her academic excellence and hands-on research experience, makes her a rising leader in the field of neuroscience.
Read More from Stony Brook University News >>
Higher Ed Leader Appointed Dean of Industrial Technologies and Professional Services
Walden University alumna Dr. Brittany Palmer has been named Dean of Industrial Technologies and Professional Services at Georgia Piedmont Technical College, following a highly successful period in the role on an interim basis.
Across her career, Dr. Palmer has served as a criminal justice educator, program chair, and division leader, contributing to the growth of academic programs across multiple campuses. Her background includes extensive teaching experience, strategic program development, and partnership-building that strengthens opportunities for students and industry partners alike.
With degrees spanning political science, criminal justice, public administration, and public policy, Dr. Palmer brings a distinguished academic and professional record to her new leadership role.
Operations Manager Spotlighted for Leadership in Transportation Services
Jennifer Allen, College of Southern Nevada, has been featured in the 2025 Influential Women series for her exemplary leadership in the transportation industry.
With more than two decades of experience, she oversees paratransit operations in the Las Vegas metropolitan area for Transdev North America, where she has gained recognition for improving service delivery, solving complex operational challenges, and strengthening customer care.
Allen is also advancing her academic journey as she pursues a degree in business administration and management. She has earned multiple academic honors, including placement on the Dean’s List.
Other NSLS Members Receiving Recognition this month:
Meah Smith, Tuskegee University, earned the prestigious Brigadier General Charles McGee Scholarship, awarded to outstanding STEM students. She remains active in honors programs and numerous community service initiatives. Full Story >>
Adrianna DaRosa, Marist University, was elected 2029 Class President, continuing her long-standing commitment to student government. She is active in the Women in Business Club, Emerging Leaders Program, intramural sports, and works as a media associate for the survey research center the Marist Poll. Full Story >>
Megan Trainor, Nunez Community College, was honored by the Louisiana Association of College & University Student Personnel Administrators (LACUSPA) as the Outstanding Mid-Level Two-Year Professional of the Year for her work as a Student Success Coach and a range of leadership positions. Full Story >>
Grace Economus, Youngstown State University, has been highlighted for securing a full-time position with accounting firm Packer Thomas before her senior year even began, following an internship with the firm, where she developed real-world experience while in school. Full Story >>
Don Christian, San Antonio College, was featured for successfully rebuilding his life after 23 years of incarceration. He has since gained promotions at work and is pursuing a degree in social work with plans to support others seeking new beginnings. Full Story >>
