2024 Award Winners

Elea Abisamra is an honors student and research fellow studying Cognitive and Behavioral Neuroscience at Virginia Tech. She also serves as the College of Science Representative for the Honors College Student Council. With unwavering passions in STEM, writing, service, and entrepreneurship, alongside fervent desires to become a doctor and researcher, she dedicates herself to transformative endeavors benefiting others. Elea authored her first book at age ten, sparking a mission to empower children globally. As CEO of Kids Can Write, she leads a nonprofit empowering over 100 young authors and integrating STEM education. With a publication in Cell on "The Power of Storytelling In STEM," Elea seeks collaborative ventures to amplify her impact. Guided by her advocacy in education and neuroscience, she envisions pursuing an MD/PhD in Educational Neuroscience to revolutionize personalized approaches to education.

Masha Balakersky is nearing completion of her sophomore year, attending Shenandoah University as an Exercise Science Honors student. Throughout her time there, she has set a goal for herself to make a difference, both on and off campus. She has learned, however, that whether it is a short-term change or a long-term change is not principal; time and time again, she has shown that making herself a present and impactful voice across groups on campus has proven to lead the student body to greater successes. In her two short years at Shenandoah, she has spent her Summers serving the incoming freshman and transfer cohorts as an Orientation Leader, and has taken on the roles of Chief of Staff of the Student Body Government as well as Secretary of the Honors Program. Although no task should come easy to a leader, Masha has made it a goal to truly understand her purpose as an Honors student and leader, and she hopes to continue making a strong impact moving forward.