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.
Max Richardson, University of Rhode Island (URI), has been awarded a $10,000 scholarship through the U.S. Department of Energy’s University Nuclear Leadership Program, bringing his total federal support over the past two years to $15,000. The competitive award recognizes students preparing to lead in the nation’s nuclear energy workforce.
Richardson’s passion for engineering began in high school through FIRST Robotics, where he developed hands-on experience in mechanical design and computer-aided engineering. After earning his associate degree in nuclear engineering technology at Three Rivers Community College, he transferred to URI to pursue a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering with a minor in nuclear engineering.
At URI, Richardson has continued to demonstrate leadership and initiative. He helped launch the URI Nuclear Club to support students interested in the field and has remained active in engineering organizations. He plans to graduate in 2027, adding a physics minor and continuing his studies through a master’s certificate in nuclear engineering and an MBA.
Read More from the University of Rhode Island > >
Tatiana Johnson, Cleary University, recently completed her master’s degree in Culture, Change, and Leadership after already making a measurable impact in higher education. As Licensure Boards Coach for Logan University in Missouri, she developed and implemented a comprehensive student success system that led to a 40% increase in first-time board exam pass rates.
Committed to continuous growth, Johnson carefully evaluated graduate programs before choosing Cleary, where she also became involved with the NSLS. “I read the success stories of other members, watched the videos of prominent leaders who were inducted, evaluated the NSLS benefits, and decided this was the right direction for me,” she says.
Her advanced degree and leadership experience recently propelled her into a newly created role at Bayer Crop Science. There, she leads content development and strategic training initiatives, collaborating with technical teams, business leaders, and stakeholders to deliver impactful solutions. Johnson’s career has consistently centered on building innovative systems that solve complex challenges across industries.
Read More from Cleary University >>
Sam Hartman, University of Massachusetts Boston, graduated with her bachelor’s degree in nursing after being elected president of her nursing class. A certified nursing assistant since age 16, Hartman has long been dedicated to patient care.
In her mid-twenties, she discovered she has a learning disorder, a revelation that reframed her academic journey and strengthened her determination. With a deeper understanding of how she learns best, Hartman embraced new challenges, including joining the NSLS and running for class president. In her leadership role, she helped organize and speak at the class’s pinning ceremony, marking a meaningful milestone for her cohort.
Now working as a unit coordinator in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Massachusetts General Hospital, Hartman is preparing for her board certification exam and pursuing her long-term goal of becoming a NICU nurse, building critical care experience along the way.
Read More from North Shore Community College >>
Danielle Harrison-Ramiz, Delta State University, has taken a key leadership role as principal of Thelma Ellis Dickerson’s Jumoke Academy Elementary School. With experience spanning rural, urban, and suburban education settings, she brings a deep commitment to equity and student growth to the position.
A Teach For America Greater Delta alumna, Harrison-Ramiz has worked in education since 2009, serving as a teacher, mentor, coach, and instructional leader. She holds multiple degrees, including an Education Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership and Supervision, and is currently pursuing her doctorate. Certified as an administrator in both Mississippi and Connecticut, she describes herself as a “forever teacher” dedicated to excellence in and beyond the classroom.
As principal, she is focused on exceeding community expectations while leading a school she hopes her own children will one day attend.
Read More from Thelma Ellis Dickerson’s Jumoke Academy >>
Trey Jackson, University of the Cumberlands, has been selected to serve on the Youth Advisory Council for the Institute for Citizens & Scholars. The council brings together young leaders from across the country to provide strategic input on programming, initiatives, and outreach efforts over a two-year term.
A senior majoring in accounting and finance, Jackson will attend the University of Kentucky J. David Rosenberg College of Law beginning in fall 2026. His experience includes internships with the U.S. Senate, the U.S. District Court system, and several advocacy organizations. He is also a licensed real estate agent and serves on the Bluegrass REALTORS® Governmental Affairs Committee.
On campus, Jackson serves as Chief of Staff for the Student Government Association and Co-President of the NSLS chapter, demonstrating a consistent commitment to civic engagement and leadership at both local and national levels.
Read More from Citizens & Scholars >>
Abigail Ramaley, National Online Chapter, has been named one of the winners of Saint Vincent College’s prestigious Wimmer Scholarship Competition. Selected for a four-year, full-tuition scholarship valued at more than $188,000, Ramaley distinguished herself through academic excellence, leadership, and extracurricular achievements, including founding her own writing initiative and earning a second-degree black belt. Full Story >>
Connor Comer, South Dakota Mines, has been selected for the 2025–2026 President’s Leadership Academy, a competitive, year-long program focused on developing high-impact leaders. A senior civil engineering major, Comer is actively involved in campus organizations. Full Story >>
Christine Davis, Southern New Hampshire University, was recently featured in an interview, highlighting her 19-year professional career and published works focused on creativity and emotional wellness. A healthcare professional, entrepreneur, and author, Davis continues to inspire through speaking engagements and community involvement. Full Story >>
Crystal Smith, Goldey-Beacom College, has been recognized for her resilience and academic excellence while pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business administration. After balancing full-time work and caregiving responsibilities, Smith earned placement on both the Dean’s List and President’s List and continues advancing her career in human resources. Full Story >>