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.
Student of the Year Leaves Lasting Legacy on Campus
Ripley Cusinato, Arapahoe Community College (ACC), has been named the college’s 2025 Student of the Year, adding to an impressive list of honors that reflect deep involvement and leadership. A double major in psychology and creative writing, Cusinato has served as president of ACC’s NSLS chapter, president of the Queer Alliance Club, and senator in the Student Government.
Their dedication to service and student advocacy has earned them regional and national recognition, including being named a Newman Civic Fellow and winning ACC’s Program Impact award and Mountain Mover award. Alongside their academic success, Cusinato is the founder of Balanced Horses Healing Humans, where they combine equine-assisted coaching with wellness.
Read More at The Arapahoe Pinnacle > >
EMS Leader Appointed Chief of County Ambulance Districts
Marshall Miller, Columbia Southern University (CSU), has been named Chief of the Marion and Ralls County Ambulance Districts. A summa cum laude graduate with a bachelor’s degree in emergency medical services administration, Miller is now pursuing a master’s degree in public administration, with a focus on emergency services management.
In his new role, Miller plans to expand services and increase efficiency by streamlining administrative processes and launching programs, such as Community Paramedic. His appointment reflects both his academic achievements and his dedication to advancing emergency medical care in his community.
Read More at Hannibal Courier-Post >>
Student Crowned Miss New Hampshire 2025
Xanthi Russell, NHTI–Concord’s Community College, has been crowned Miss New Hampshire 2025, earning a $15,000 scholarship and the opportunity to represent her state in the Miss America Opportunity. She also graduates this month with an associate’s degree in paralegal studies.
Russell’s year of service will focus on leadership development for youth, combining her passion for advocacy with her platform through the 4-H program, the nation’s largest youth development organization. Since beginning her involvement in the Miss New Hampshire Scholarship Program, she has earned $61,000 in scholarships, using her talent, perseverance, and commitment to education to inspire others.
Read More at New Hampshire Union Leader >>
Human Sciences Graduate Pursues Making a Global Impact
Madison Purifoy, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), has made her mark as a researcher, leader, and mentor while preparing to pursue a Ph.D. in food science. At UAPB, she was awarded both the Dean’s Academic Scholarship and the competitive 1890 Scholarship by the UAPB School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences.
Purifoy’s research on sweet potato compounds earned recognition in many circles, leading to awards in the field. She also gained hands-on experience through USDA internships, working on rice strains, greenhouse gas data, and nutritional research.
Beyond the lab, she held leadership roles in UAPB’s chapter of Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences, and the Student Government Association, all while serving as a campus mentor. Her goal is to improve food security and empower underserved communities through science and education.
SUNY Students Honored with Chancellor’s Award for Excellence
Ayaka Hibino and Ruby Hoyt, Genesee Community College (GCC), have each received the 2025 SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence, the SUNY system’s highest student honor.
Hibino excelled academically with a 3.9 GPA while serving as vice president of the Student Government, president of multiple organizations—including the NSLS—and spearheading GCC’s first Cultural Fusion Festival. Her efforts highlighted cultural diversity and leadership across campus. She has been accepted into the Disney College Program.
Hoyt, a biology major and standout athlete, was recognized for her success both in the classroom and on the soccer field. With multiple conference and All-American honors, she also served in leadership roles through GCC athletics and student organizations, including as secretary for the Athletic Leadership Committee.
Other NSLS Members Receiving Recognition this month:
Dr. Heather Bjornberg, Aspen University, founder of Pixie Dust Leadership LLC, published in the Aspen Journal of Scholarly Works and was selected to present at the Texas Computer Education Association’s AI Conference. Full Story >>
Rhishma Ashton, Rockland Community College, received the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence and graduated as a registered nurse after holding multiple leadership positions that built community and belonging on campus. Full Story >>
Tanya Patricia Tanuvasa Pio, University of Hawaiʻi–West Oʻahu, served as student commencement speaker, reflecting on her journey of resilience while working as an educator and advocate for quality education in the South Pacific. Full Story >>
Sara Lusk, Austin Peay State University, graduated with a double major and received a top scholarship to attend Princeton Theological Seminary, where she will continue her academic and ministry journey. Full Story >>
Morgan Walz, Trine University, received the prestigious Robert B. Stewart Award and was named Distinguished Student of the School of Health Sciences after maintaining a 4.0 GPA and completing impactful undergraduate research. Full Story >>
Pragya Luitel, Colorado Mesa University, a first-generation graduate, earned multiple honors and scholarships and presented award-winning research on academic success factors. She has secured an internship to jumpstart a career in data analytics or data science. Full Story >>
Lidia Khayrulina, Hudson County Community College, valedictorian of the Class of 2025, delivered the commencement address and was recognized as a Jack Kent Cooke Foundation semifinalist and New Jersey Student of the Year nominee. Full Story >>
Jean Guerdy Paul (JP), Brookdale Community College, earned the Triangle Award for embodying leadership, service, and perseverance. Known affectionately as “Mr. Brookdale,” he served in numerous leadership roles and was honored with multiple scholarships and awards. Full Story >>
