Pavlis Honors College Blog

Category: PHC Students

Honoring Our Spring 2025 Graduates at the Medallion Ceremony

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This spring, the Pavlis Honors College proudly celebrated a new class of graduates who have embraced curiosity, challenged themselves beyond the classroom, and made a lasting impact through their unique pathways. These students have pursued experiences in global and community engagement, leadership, undergraduate research, innovation, and more, all guided by the values of learning deeply and purposeful reflection.

students standing in rows wearing medals with green ribbons

Celebrating with the Pavlis Community

This semester’s celebration featured a special Medallion Ceremony, where graduates, their families, and members of the PHC community gathered to honor the accomplishments and growth of each student. The event included heartfelt and inspiring remarks from our Assistant Dean, Dr. Darnishia Morris, who reminded students of the importance of authenticity and leading with compassion. We were also moved by the thoughtful words of our student speaker, Ethan Plummer, who shared personal reflections on his journey through PHC and encouraged fellow graduates to continue seeking purpose and making change.

Together, we honored the legacy of our college’s namesake, Frank Pavlis, whose vision for experiential learning and global leadership continues to shape the mission of our college. Each graduate was presented with a Pavlis Honors College medallion—a symbol of their hard work, growth, and commitment to meaningful engagement. Following the ceremony, we celebrated with a social gathering that brought together students, faculty, staff, and friends of PHC for conversation, connection, and community.

Our Spring 2025 Graduates

We are proud to recognize the following Spring 2025 PHC graduates:

Dante Basanese
Arika Booms
Brooke Cochran
Gen Dahl
Kyla Dewick
Teddy Ellis
Emma Fanning
Madison Green
Emaly Jadin
Abby Jensen
Kevin Johnson
Drew Knutson
Sydney Koss
Emily Leverance

Kimberly Ann Lopez
Olivia Luke
Zoe Mazurkiewicz
Lauren McIntyre
Paige McKean
Mariah Mellendorf
Elsa Meyer
Patrick Moeller
Genevieve Myers
Adrian Noecker
Ethan Plummer
Shelby Rohwetter
Emily Ruf
Abby Sampselle

Aidan Sanders
Eddie Sloan
Skyler Spitzley
Mary Stevens
Emma Strutz
Emily Taylor
Lydia Tembreull
Kieran Vacek
Thomas Van Wingen
Mason Vinoski
Jonathan Willis
Colby Winter
Connor Zavislak

Looking Ahead

The future is bright for our Spring 2025 graduates. They leave Michigan Tech not only with degrees but with experiences that have challenged them to think differently, lead boldly, and engage deeply. Whether they are designing solutions for tomorrow, building inclusive communities, or pursuing new knowledge, these graduates are equipped to make meaningful contributions wherever they go.

Stay Connected

As you begin your next chapter, remember that the Pavlis Honors College will always be your home. We encourage you to stay in touch, share your successes, and continue to build the PHC network around the globe. Email us anytime at honors@mtu.edu, and follow us on social media to stay connected to the community you’ve helped shape.

Congratulations, Spring 2025 graduates! We are so proud of all you’ve accomplished and can’t wait to see where your journey takes you next.


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A Compass for College and Beyond: The Power of the Pavlis Honors Abilities

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What makes a college experience truly transformative?

At the Pavlis Honors College, we believe it’s not just about the courses you take or the credentials you earn—it’s about who you become along the way. That’s why everything we do is rooted in the Pavlis Honors Abilities: nine intentionally designed mindsets that help you navigate not just college, but life with clarity, confidence, and purpose.

These Honors Abilities aren’t a checklist. They’re a compass.

They guide how you engage with your learning, your peers, your community, and your future.

The Pavlis Honors Abilities:

Pavlis Abilities Icons in green
  • Learn Deeply
  • Welcome Challenge
  • Embrace Ambiguity
  • Communicate Empathetically
  • Engage in Mentorship
  • Value Diverse Perspectives
  • Know Yourself
  • Balance Confidence and Humility
  • Act With Purpose

Each Ability represents more than a skill—it’s a mindset. A way of being. When you reflect on these Abilities throughout your Pavlis journey, you begin to connect the dots between your coursework, co-curriculars, and life experiences. You start to see patterns in how you approach challenges, how you relate to others, and how you make decisions.

And that self-awareness? That’s powerful.

More Than Just Skills—They’re Tools for Life

Let’s be honest: college doesn’t come with a clear manual. You’ll encounter uncertainty. You’ll face moments of doubt, conflict, and growth. The Pavlis Abilities are there to help you meet those moments with intention:

  • Learn Deeply reminds you that learning isn’t about memorizing facts—it’s about seeking understanding.
  • Welcome Challenge empowers you to lean into discomfort and grow from it.
  • Embrace Ambiguity helps you move forward even when the path ahead isn’t clear.
  • Communicate Empathetically allows you to listen, connect, and lead with care.
  • Engage in Mentorship teaches you that learning goes both ways—giving and receiving guidance.
  • Value Diverse Perspectives expands your worldview and sharpens your thinking.
  • Know Yourself brings clarity to your decisions and authenticity to your relationships.
  • Balance Confidence and Humility keeps you grounded and open to growth.
  • Act With Purpose ties it all together—reminding you to move forward with integrity and intention.

Real Students, Real Impact

These Abilities don’t just live in a framework—they come to life in real student experiences. Pavlis students constantly demonstrate how this mindset shapes both their college journey and their future goals.

“Being part of the Honors College has profoundly shaped my personal and professional growth by challenging me to think critically, manage time effectively, and engage deeply with complex issues. It has inspired me to push my limits and explore new opportunities. Balancing academic demands with extracurricular activities has enhanced my work ethic and adaptability, preparing me for leadership roles in both academic and professional settings.”

Emma Strutz, Pavlis Honors Student

Your Journey, Your Story

Whether you’re designing a project, studying abroad, joining an Enterprise team, leading a student org, or just navigating a tough semester, the Pavlis Honors Abilities are there—helping you reflect, grow, and act with intention.

Because college isn’t just about earning a degree—it’s about becoming a thoughtful, purpose-driven individual. The Pavlis Honors Abilities help you do just that. They offer a framework for not only making the most of your time at Michigan Tech but for leading with purpose long after you graduate.

Let them be your compass.

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Celebrating Our Fall 2024 Pavlis Honors College Graduates

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The Pavlis Honors College is thrilled to celebrate our Fall 2024 graduates! This talented and diverse group of students has not only excelled academically but also embraced opportunities to engage in meaningful experiences that will shape their futures. From groundbreaking undergraduate research to impactful global and community engagement projects, these graduates exemplify the values and vision of the Pavlis Honors College.

The Value of Being a PHC Graduate

As members of the Pavlis Honors College, these students have had access to unique resources and programs that set them apart from their peers. Through opportunities like the Enterprise Program, the Alley Makerspace, and our Honors Program experiences, they have honed their skills in leadership, innovation, and collaboration.

PHC graduates leave Michigan Tech with more than just a diploma—they carry a robust portfolio of experiences that showcase their problem-solving abilities, creative thinking, and commitment to making a difference in the world. Employers and graduate schools alike recognize the value of these experiences, setting our graduates up for success in their next chapters.

Pavlis Honors College – Fall 2024 Graduates

Fall 2024 PHC Graduates

  • Henry Basala
    • Majors: Accounting and Management Information Systems
    • Concentration: Data Analytics 
    • Involvement: PHC Undergraduate Student Advisory Board, KSI Accounting Club, CoB Ambassador, CoB Mentor, Women’s Basketball Practice Player
  • Alex Bos
    • Major: Engineering Management 
    • Involvement: VP of the Snowmobile Club, President of the American Society for Engineering Management Club, Advanced Project Management Competition, Blue Key
  • Taylor Fanning
    • Major: Engineering
    • Minors: Systems Engineering and Business
    • Involvement: President of Tau Beta Pi-National Engineering Honor Society), Director of Technology of Systems Engineering Association 
  • Zachary Gillish
    • Major: Mechanical Engineering Technology 
    • Minor: Enterprise
    • Involvement: Mu Beta Psi, Multiplanetary INnovation Enterprise (MINE), Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), and Pirate Choir
  • James Halverson
    • Major: Mechanical Engineering
    • Concentration: Enterprise
    • Involvement: Supermileage Systems (Project Leader, Mentor, Competition Team Lead, Shop Manager, and Chief Engineer), Engineering Ambassadors Club, Resident Assistant
  • Wesley McGee
    • Major: Biomedical Engineering
    • Minor: Biological Sciences
    • Involvement: Ridge Roamers, The Wildlife Society, Astronomy Club, Mitch’s Misfits, Isle Royale Wolf-Moose Project
  • Olivia Morowsky
    • Major: Mechanical Engineering
    • Minor: Sustainability Science and Society
    • Concentration: Enterprise
    • Involvement: Alpha Phi Omega, Multiplanetary INnovation Enterprise (MINE)
  • Rish Rao
    • Major: Management Information Systems
    • Minor: Pre-Health Professions & Public Health
    • Involvement: Tech Tutors, Undergraduate Student Government
  • Emilie Rummer
    • Major: Software Engineering
    • Minor: Mathematical Science and Technical Theatre
    • Involvement: Women in Computer Science, Mitch’s Misfits, Craft Club
  • Eli Sierra
    • Major: Mechanical Engineering
    • Minor: Aerospace Engineering
    • Concentration: Enterprise
    • Involvement: Planetary Surface Technology Development Lab (PSTDL), Aerospace Enterprise, Superior Wind Symphony (SWS)

Honoring Our Graduates at the Medallion Ceremony

Pavlis Honors College Graduation Medallion

This semester’s celebration included a special Medallion Ceremony, where graduates, their families, and members of the PHC community came together to mark this momentous occasion. The ceremony featured inspiring words from faculty member Dr. Laura Fiss and our student speaker, Henry Basala, who reflected on the transformative journey of being part of the Pavlis Honors College.

We also paid homage to our founder, Frank Pavlis, whose vision for experiential learning and leadership continues to inspire our mission and impact. Each graduate was presented with a Pavlis Honors College medallion, which symbolizes their accomplishments and serves as a keepsake to cherish as they move forward in their careers and lives.

Following the ceremony, we hosted a social gathering with graduates, students, faculty, staff, and friends of the Pavlis Honors College. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate together, share stories, and build connections that will last long after graduation day.

Looking Ahead

The future is bright for our Fall 2024 graduates. Armed with the skills and experiences they’ve gained as members of the Pavlis Honors College, they are ready to take on the challenges and opportunities ahead. Whether advancing technologies, driving innovation, addressing global challenges, or leading in their communities, PHC graduates are poised to make a meaningful impact.

To our graduates: You are a testament to the power of experiential learning and the importance of pursuing your passions. We are immensely proud of all that you have accomplished during your time at Michigan Tech and can’t wait to see the great things you’ll achieve.

Stay Connected

As you embark on your next adventure, remember that you will always have a home in the Pavlis Honors College community. We encourage you to stay connected with us! Share your stories, achievements, and updates by emailing honors@mtu.edu, and consider following us on social media to stay up-to-date on news and events.

Your journey as a Husky doesn’t end here—it continues as part of a global network of Pavlis Honors College alumni who are making a difference. We look forward to celebrating your future successes!

Congratulations, Fall 2024 Pavlis Honors College graduates!

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Celebrating Our Spring 2024 Graduates!

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Pavlis Honors College graduation medallion

The Pavlis Honors College would like to celebrate the accomplishments of graduating seniors, who chose to take advantage of all that Michigan Tech has to offer and challenge themselves inside and outside the classroom.  These students reflect our core values by being authentic, building relationships with each other, and being open to learning through new experiences. These students dove headfirst into everything Michigan Tech had to offer and they’ve shown what it means to be genuine, make friends, and embrace ambiguity. Their hard work and dedication have truly paid off, and we couldn’t be prouder!

  • Gina Adragna
    • Major: Cybersecurity
    • Concentration: System and Network Security
    • Minor: Writing
    • Involvement: RedTeam, Hillside Place Association (HPA), Resident Assistant, and Teaching Assistant
  • Lillian Baker
    • Major: Exercise Science
    • Minor: Psychology & Pre-Health Professions
    • Involvement: Mont Ripley Ski Patrol, Athletic Training Student Aid, Well-being Peer Ambassador, PHAT RSO, and Well-being Advocate RSO
  • Arlethia Bell
    • Major: Environmental Engineering
    • Involvement: National Society of Black Engineers, Black Students Association, Green Campus Enterprise, Student Success Coaching
  • Justin Carlson
    • Major: Computer Science
    • Minor: Mathematical Sciences
    • Involvement: Robotics Systems Enterprise: Autodrive II challenge, Undergraduate Research & Scholarship Symposium Committee, and Broomball
  • Alyssa Church
    • Major: Human Biology & Anthropology
    • Minor: French & Historical Studies
    • Involvement: SURF recipient, Mont Ripley Ski Patrol, First Chair Alto Saxophone-Superior Wind Symphony, Huskies Pep Band
  • Jordan Craven
    • Major: Management Information Systems
    • Minor: Computer Science
    • Involvement: Varsity Track and Field Athlete, Women in Computer Science Organization, CEO Club, Husky Innovate
  • Jacqui Foreman
    • Major: Chemical Engineering
    • Involvement: AIChE, Delta Zeta, Panhellenic Council, Omega Chi Epsilon, Consumer Product Manufacturing Enterprise, Tau Beta Pi, Order of Omega, SWE, Provost Scholar Recipient for Chemical Engineering 2023
  • Faith Gaertner
    • Major: Mechanical Engineering
    • Concentration: Engineering Enterprise
    • Minor: Art & Aerospace Engineering
    • Involvement: Alpha Phi Omega and Multiplanetary INnovation Enterprise (MINE)
  • Evan Grahs
    • Major: Computer Engineering
    • Involvement: KeWee Energy Meters – Open Source Hardware Enterprise
  • Divyesh Hariram
    • Major: Mechanical Engineering
  • Halle Hill
    • Major: Biological Sciences
    • Concentration: General Biology
    • Minor: Ecology
    • Involvement: Undergraduate Research, Organic Chemistry Teaching Assistant, Senior Resident Assistant, Women’s Soccer Club
  • Louis Hindman
    • Major: Mechanical Engineering
    • Concentration: Engineering Enterprise
    • Minor: Manufacturing
    • Involvement: Velovations Enterprise, BOSS Snowplow, music-focused academic enhancement, MTU Nordic Ski Club
  • Henry Inyang
    • Major: Electrical Engineering Technology
    • Involvement: National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), Black Student Association (BSA), African Students Organization (ASO)
  • Ryan Jaklic
    • Major: Cybersecurity
    • Concentration: System and Network Security
    • Minor: Leadership
  • Cade Kaighen
    • Major: Chemical Engineering
    • Minor: Bioprocess Engineering
    • Involvement: Cross Country, Track and Field, Club Soccer
  • David Kromholz
    • Major: Forestry
    • Minor: Spanish International & Plant Sciences
  • Anthony Leick
    • Major: Civil Engineering
    • Minor: Construction Management
  • Danelle Leinonen
    • Major: Theatre & Entertainment Technology
    • Involvement: Concordia Student Ministries and Michigan Tech Emergency Medical Services
  • Thoren Lexvold
    • Major: Computer Engineering
    • Involvement: Dungeons and Dragons Club
  • Jenna Lubahn
    • Major: Mechanical Engineering
    • Concentration: Engineering Enterprise
    • Minor: Manufacturing
    • Involvement: Swing Club, Outdoor Venture Crew, GEAR Enterprise
  • Nathan Luczak
    • Major: Mechanical Engineering
    • Concentration: Engineering Enterprise
    • Minor: Manufacturing
    • Involvement: Cross Country Team, Track and Field Team, H-STEM Enterprise
  • Fidan Malikova
    • Major: Chemical Engineering
    • Involvement: Aerospace Enterprise and Consumer Product Manufacturing Enterprise
  • Hunter Malinowski
    • Major: Psychology & Computer Science
    • Concentration: Applications
    • Involvement: Delta Zeta Sorority, Panhellenic Council, Order of Omega, Tiny Knitz, Copper Country Coders, and HuskyFAN
  • Haley Marchese
    • Major: Medical Laboratory Science
    • Concentration: MLS 4+1
    • Minor: Pre-Health Professions
    • Involvement: Mushing Club, Songer Award for Research, SURF recipient, URSS, and 2023 Michigan Physiological Society (MPS)
  • Michael Martin
    • Major: Physics
    • Minor: Mathematical Sciences & Astrophysics
    • Involvement: Society of Physics Students
  • Annika Price
    • Major: Mathematics & Computer Science
    • Involvement: Humane Interface Design Enterprise (HIDE), Mushing Club, and Circle K
  • Leanna Rose
    • Major: Biochemistry & Molecular Biology-Chem & Human Biology
    • Minor: Pre-Health Professions & Spanish
    • Involvement: Keweenaw Symphony Orchestra, Pre-Health Mentorship Program, Medical Assistant at UGL Family Health Center, PHC Lead Learning Facilitator, GCE Conference Student Coordinator, PHC Undergraduate Advisory Board Member
  • Francine Rosinski
    • Major: Environmental Engineering
    • Minor: Ecology
    • Involvement: Built World Enterprise and Keweenaw Youth for Climate Action
  • Amanda Tharp
    • Major: Chemical Engineering
    • Minor: Business
  • Bronwyn Weiker
    • Major: Biomedical Engineering
    • Involvement: Craft Club and H-STEM enterprise
  • Benjamin Wireman
    • Major: Mathematics
    • Concentration: General Mathematics
    • Minor: Global Community Development Partnerships & Computer Science
    • Involvement: Math Learning Center, Alpha Phi Omega, and undergraduate research studying Net Migration in the US
Spring 2024 Pavlis Honors College graduates

To our graduates – we are so proud of you!  Take a moment to soak in this feeling of accomplishment and success and know that this is only the beginning as you go on to make your difference in the world. Congratulations!

The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.

B.B. King
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Empowering Entrepreneurs: Join Founder’s Friday for Collaboration, Inspiration, and Resources

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Are you an entrepreneur looking for advice to launch your startup? Look no further than Founder’s Friday, a weekly meetup where aspiring entrepreneurs can come together to collaborate, founded and hosted by Jordan Craven, a current Pavlis Honors College student.

Image of a person holding three awards in front of a room with theater seating.
Founder’s Friday creator, Jordan Craven, celebrating after the 2023 Bob Mark Business Model Pitch Competition

Jordan has been part of the Honors College since she was a first-year at Michigan Tech, even receiving a scholarship from Pavlis after pitching through Husky Innovate when she was in high school. Jordan is studying Management and Information Systems with a minor in Computer Science. “All of the components of Pavlis that I’ve done have been building up my company and have gotten me prepared to launch. It’s been really cool to now look at graduating with honors having accomplished things I didn’t know I was going to do in college. Instead of just preparing to launch, I realized that I was able to actually launch my business while I was still here. It was crazy to do that,” said Craven.

Craven’s business is called Sizeologic; a technology company that helps online clothing retailers with issues such as returns, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. Right now, Craven is working on creating a 3D fitting room, so that shoppers can see how clothes will fit online before purchasing them. “There’s a lot of waste from online returns. I would buy three pairs of pants then return two of them, and there’s a two-thirds chance they’re burned or landfilled when they go back, so it’s just really environmentally not cool. I’d like to help solve that as well, with my company.” 

In her experience with the Pavlis Honors College and Husky Innovate, Jordan has traveled to many pitch competitions throughout the state, including the Experience Innovation: Detroit trip this past fall. “I noticed that we didn’t really have a space where students can go to work together with other innovators. I saw all of that downstate and recognized that there wasn’t a big community like that at Tech, and so I wanted to start something.”

That’s where Founder’s Friday comes in.

Coworking space with table, couch and window.
An example of a flexible coworking space from TechTown Detroit.

Founder’s Friday offers up-and-coming innovators and entrepreneurs the opportunity to network, collaborate, and brainstorm with other like-minded individuals. When asked about the inspiration for Founder’s Friday, Jordan stated “I know personally, by coworking, and being connected with other entrepreneurs and business professionals, that it helps inspire me, and I’ve been told by a lot of other people that it also inspires them, and I want to continue to build that, and build more of a consistent community.”

Craven has dedicated 15 hours a week to working on her company. “I was thinking, what if there was a place – I’m already actively engaged in this work for five hours – where other people can come and cowork with me. Or, if they want assistance, I have a lot of connections downstate. I want to connect people to the resources they need, and I’m trying to build up the innovator community at Tech.” Founder’s Friday focuses heavily on resource sharing, for all entrepreneurs, regardless of where they are in their journey. “It’s not super easy to figure out what the entrepreneurial steps are, and so pulling in all the resources from each stage of startups, bringing them together, sharing them with people, and showing others the steps I’ve been taking can be very helpful. My goal is to connect everyone so we can build each other up.” 

“My goal is to connect everyone so we can build each other up.”

Jordan Craven, Pavlis Honors College student and Founder’s Friday creator

If you’re interested in connecting with other aspiring entrepreneurs, be sure to stop by Founder’s Friday happening every Friday from 12-5pm in the Minerals and Materials Engineering building (M&M) in room 718A, down the hall from the Pavlis Honors College. It takes place both in person and on Zoom and everyone is welcome. “Founder’s Friday is a resource that is consistent, whether it’s five minutes or two hours, or the whole five, whatever that person needs and wants.”

Written by: Frankie Straubel for the Pavlis Honors College

Husky Innovate is a collaboration between the Pavlis Honors College, the College of Business, and the Office of Innovation and Commercialization.

If you are interested in more information, please feel free to reach out to honors@mtu.edu.

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Congratulations, Graduates!

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The Pavlis Honors College would like to celebrate the accomplishments of graduating seniors, who chose to take advantage of all that Michigan Tech has to offer and challenge themselves inside and outside the classroom.  These students reflect our core values by being authentic, building relationships with each other, and being open to learning through new experiences. All of their hard work and commitment to the ideals of the Pavlis Honors College and Michigan Technological University has paid off!

Pavlis Honors College graduates – Spring 2023
  • J.T. Boudreau
    • Major: Wildlife Ecology & Conservation  
    • What’s next: J.T. will be starting a job with the U.S. Geological Survey, a division of the U.S. Department of the Interior
  • James Brouckman    
    • Major: Computer Engineering  
    • James is looking forward to moving out to San Fransisco shortly after graduation to start his new full-time job in software engineering.
  • Jerod Busch    
    • Major: Computer Engineering and Electrical Engineering  
    • Jerod is looking forward to starting his full-time position as a controls engineer in Ithaca NY.
  • Nolan Davis
    • Major: Mechanical Engineering 
    • Minor: Manufacturing 
    • Concentration:  Engineering Enterprise
    • Nolan will be working full-time at The Hill Group and is looking forward to starting his first job, growing professionally with this experience, and having more fun times with my family and friends.
  • Tanner Duncan
    • Major: Mechanical Engineering 
    • Minor: Manufacturing and Aerospace Engineering    Concentration: Engineering Enterprise   
    • What’s Next: Tanner has accepted a position with BOSS Snowplow and will be moving to the Iron Mountain area.
  • Ben Houck
    • Major: Mechanical Engineering
    • Concentration: Engineering Enterprise
    • What’s Next: Ben will be pursuing an internship in Engineering at Stellantis, and will continue at MTU for a 1 year accelerated MBA next year.
  • Andrew Kleehammer
    • Major: Engineering Management
    • Minor: Enterprise   
    • What’s Next: Andrew is about halfway through a Master’s in Engineering Management and also works in project management at FORTNA.
  • Megan Lee
    • Major: Environmental Engineering
    • Minor: Spanish
    • What’s Next: Megan will be working for Arcadis, an Environmental Consulting firm, out of Novi, Michigan on environmental remediation projects.
  • Mandy Lepak
    • Major: Mechanical Engineering
    • Minor: Manufacturing 
    • What’s Next: This summer Mandy will be working for Gentex Corporation in Zeeland, Michigan as a Production Support Engineer and is looking forward to another big change in her life that will help me continue growing myself as an individual.
  • Fable-Viktor Moore
    • Major: Psychology
    • Concentration: Clinical/Counseling Psychology
    • What’s Next: Research Job and Graduate School
  • Anderson Piercey
    • Major: Management
    • Minor: Psychology 
    • What’s Next: Anderson will be living in the Lansing area with his significant other and pursuing employment as a Project Manager.
  • Jonathan Rabideau
    • Major: Computer Science
    • What’s next:  Jonathan will be starting his career and is considering a Master’s degree
  • Mady Sherman
    • Major: Biochemistry & Molecular Biology-Chemistry focus  
    • What’s Next: Mady will be working as a Research Technician for Neogen Corporation in Lansing Michigan
  • Colton Sitts
    • Major: STC
    • Minor: Computer Science
    • What’s next: Colton will be working as a quality manager at Epic Systems in Madison, WI. designing and testing software for healthcare facilities all over the country.
  • Nick Stankovich
    • Major: Management   
    • What’s next: Nick is looking forward to pursuing a Master’s here at MTU and an internship with General Motors.
  • Maddie  Thompson
    • Major: Mechanical Engineering
    • Minor: Business
    • What’s next: Maddie will travel to Europe for a month after graduation to learn more about different cultures and experience new places! Upon her return, she will start her full-time job with General Motors as a TRACK Hardware engineer in their rotational program!
  • Libby  Umlor
    • Major: Chemical Engineering
    • What’s next: Libby will be returning to Michigan Tech to complete an accelerated master’s in Chemical Engineering.
  • Zachary Vatter
    • Major: Biomedical Engineering and Human Biology   Concentration: Pre-Health Professions
    • What’s next: Zachary will return to Michigan Tech to pursue a Master’s in biological sciences.
  • John Waller
    • Major: Mechanical Engineering Tech
    • What’s next: After graduating John is moving to Kalamazoo, MI, and getting married in June.

To our graduates – we are so proud of you!  Take a moment to soak in this feeling of accomplishment and success and know that this is only the beginning as you go on to make your difference in the world. Congratulations!

Education is not the filling of a pot but the lighting of a fire.

W.B. Yeats
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Pavlis Honors College Dean’s Scholarship Winner Announced

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The Pavlis Honors College Dean’s Scholarship has been established to recognize students on an annual basis who have committed their personal time to promote and grow our program and its enrollment and visibility on campus. This scholarship highlights a student’s commitment to the Pavlis Honors College and making sure they are getting the most out of their undergraduate education.

This year’s PHC Dean’s Scholarship is awarded to Arlethia Bell. The Pavlis Honors College (PHC) faculty has emphasized how Arlethia has consistently been a leader and mentor not only in the PHC community but across campus. Arlethia has served as a PHC Learning Facilitator, as a panelist or facilitator for multiple PHC recruitment events, as a Resident Assistant, and as a leader within the National Society of Black Engineers and the Black Students Association. In addition, Arlethia has been active with the Enterprise program, the Green Campus Enterprise, Engineers without Borders, Americorps, in internships, and numerous other campus, community, and national organizations.

Pavlis Honors College Dean’s Scholarship Winner, Arlethia Bell

Dean of the Pavlis Honors College, Marika Seigel, stated: “I want to thank Arlethia for being so passionate about the Pavlis Honors College and being willing to share that passion with potential future and new PHC students whenever she is able. Arlethia is the exemplar of what a Pavlis Honors College student can and should be.”

When asked about how the Pavlis Honors College has impacted her and her academic career, Arlethia shared, “Being a part of the Pavlis Honors College has motivated me to step out of my comfort zone and push myself into more well-rounded experiences, in order to grow as a student leader. It has also allowed me to reflect in-depth on these experiences, recognize my growth, and share my skills and knowledge with others.”

The Pavlis Honors College faculty and staff would like to thank our Dean’s Scholarship winner, Arlethia, for all that she has done and continues to do for PHC and the Michigan Tech community. Congratulations!

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Congratulations, Graduates!

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The Pavlis Honors College would like to celebrate the accomplishments of graduating seniors, who chose to take advantage of all that Michigan Tech has to offer and challenge themselves inside and outside the classroom.  These students reflect our core values by being authentic, building relationships with each other, and being open to learning through new experiences. All of their hard work and commitment to the ideals of the Pavlis Honors College and Michigan Technological University has paid off!

Christian Johnson

Major: Human Biology and English
Minor: Pre-Health Professions

Christian graduated with a dual major in Human Biology and English and a minor in Pre-Health Professions. He was the 2022 Pavlis Honors College Departmental Scholar and the recipient of the 2022 Provost’s Award for Scholarship. When asked to share a memorable experience from his time in the Pavlis Honors College, Christian shared, “Finding Dial Help through the honor’s project component and being an active volunteer since 2020.”

Jailynn Johnson

Major: Chemistry
Minor: Mathematics

Jailynn graduated with a Chemistry major and a Mathematics minor. During her time at Michigan Tech, she made her mark by holding the position of president of the Black Student Association, helping to host the Black History Month exhibit at the library, and receiving the Percy Julian Award for outstanding leadership in 2021, among many other things! When discussing her time in the Pavlis Honors College, Jailynn stated, “One of my fondest memories has been serving on the Undergraduate Student Advisory Board.”

Audrey Levanen

Major: Mechanical Engineering
Minor: Medical Devices & Instrumentation

Audrey graduated with a Mechanical Enginerring degree and a minor in Medical Devices and Instrumentation. Her determination to make the most of her time at Michigan Tech definitely showed as she participated in many opportunitites including being a Success Coach and completing a successful internship at Thermo Analytics. While reflecting on her time in the Pavlis Honors College, Audrey shared that she “loved getting to know all the PHC people, especially during the seminars!”

Luke Reich

Major: Mechanical Engineering
Minor: Structural Materials

Luke graduated with a Mechanical Engineering major and a minor in Structural Materials. Luke was determined to complete his Honors Program components and shared, “One of my favorite parts about being a part of the Honors College was being a Learning Facilitator. Not only was I able to use the teaching and communications skills I learned working in the Math Learning Center for three years, I really appreciated being able to participate in some of the behind-the-scenes work that goes into running the different honors seminars. I was able to take the different courses again as I led my students through them. Whether it was through reviewing the material or hearing my students’ perspectives I always learned something new every time I participated in one of the seminars. Being a Learning Facilitator taught me that there is always more to learn. Even if you’ve gone through something before, there can be a lot to learn if you view things from different perspectives.

Ry Swaty

Major: Mechanical Engineering
Minor: Aerospace Engineering and Business

Ry graduated with a Mechanical Engineering degree and a dual minor in Aerospace Engineering and Business. During his time in the Pavlis Honors College, the faculty remarked that Ry consistently holds himself to high standards, and his thoughtfulness and consideration were considered contagious. Throughout his time in Pavlis, Ry made a point to challenge himself in many different ways–for instance, to physically explore his space and talk to people. Reflecting on his time, Ry stated that he is very thankful for the PHC faculty, stating, “A big thank you to the Pavlis faculty – you have truly facilitated a monumental positive shift in my view of the world and myself.”

Pavlis Honors students at the Medallion Ceremony Fall 2022

“You are educated. Your certification is in your degree. You may think of it as the ticket to the good life. Let me ask you to think of an alternative. Think of it as your ticket to change the world.”

Tom Brokaw
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Congratulations, graduates!

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The class of 2021 had their “embrace ambiguity” skills tested during their final year. Even with this unexpected twist, our newest honors students made their mark in labs and Enterprise spaces, in bowling alleys and roller derby arenas, everywhere from Houghton to Peru. Congratulations, graduates.

Ben Neely

During his time at Tech, Ben served as vice president of Phi Kappa Tau, spent part of his research pathway studying grade estimation using dynamic anisotropy interpolation, and is graduating with a degree in mining engineering. Ben’s headed to Lexington, Kentucky after graduation, where he’ll work for RESPEC Engineering.

Brandon Howard

A mechanical engineer on the New Venture pathway, Brandon’s senior design team won first place in this year’s Design Expo, designing an N95-rated filtration system to be used with Stryker’s existing Flyte helmet and hood in order to protect surgeons against COVID-19 and other airborne viruses. Brandon also served as advertising chair for Film Board, and headed several student committees. Brandon is staying at Michigan Tech to work on a master’s degree in mechanical engineering, with a focus on sustainable design and manufacturing.

Chiarra Elkort-Wickboldt

Chiarra graduated with a degree in environmental engineering. During her community engagement pathway, she earned a Peace Corps Prep certificate, mentored in the Young Women’s Leadership Program, worked with the Canterbury House Food Pantry and served as a learning facilitator for HON 1150. After graduation, Chiarra’s going to stay at Michigan Tech for a while longer to finish an accelerated master’s degree in environmental engineering.

Deanna Springgay

Deanna Springgay’s (center-right, kneeling in a purple jersey) roller derby team

A statistics major, Deanna used her custom pathway to improve one of her favorite off-campus activities: she created a recording system for Keweenaw Roller Derby’s internal team development. She also served on the Pavlis Honors College’s undergraduate student advisory board and volunteered as a Pavlis peer mentor. After graduation, she’ll start working for Epic Software as a technical solutions engineer.

Harley Merkaj

Harley graduated with a computer science major and a mathematics minor. As part of his leadership pathway, Harley created a ticketing portal for USG. The website gives all registered student organizations on campus a way to efficiently file forms with USG. He also served on the Diversity Council, the Networking and Computing Student Association, and on the Honors Ambassador team. Harley was also nominated for exceptional leadership in student governance. Harley plans to move to California after graduation.

Joseph Van Linn

Joseph graduated with a mechanical engineering major and a Spanish minor. On his research pathway, he’s done everything from presenting his research at the American Society of Mechanical Engineers International Mechanical Engineering Congress and Exposition virtually in November of 2020 to fighting forest fires in Oregon to a Study Abroad in Spain to giving back to Pavlis as one of our first peer mentors. After graduation, Josephy plans to go back to Oregon for another season of firefighting, and will then go to graduate school in the Netherlands.

Kaylee Meyers

A biomedical engineering major, Goldwater Scholar, and winner of the 2019-2020 Provost’s Award, Kaylee is also a co-director and tutor for Tech Tutors (a free and virtual tutoring program developed in response to schools moving online due to COVID-19). On her research pathway, Kaylee studied ultrasound and tendon wound healing. After graduation, she’s headed to graduate school to work on translating biosensor medical research and technology to clinical settings.

Kenneth Shivers

Kenneth earned dual degrees in computer and electrical engineering. On his enhanced Enterprise pathway, Kenneth served as a project manager for the Wireless Communication Enterprise and the Michigan Tech fall Hackathon. After graduation, Kenneth’s hoping to find a job as an embedded engineer in southeast Michigan.

Jake Grund

Jake Grund (back row, third from the left)

Mechanical engineering technology major Jake Grund is one of Pavlis’ first ETS-IMPRESS graduates. He’s also a fantastic bowler, and used his pathway to teach others the game through a coaching clinic and outreach to middle and high schoolers. After graduation, Jake plans to move closer to his hometown, volunteer, and continue bowling.

Lydia Savatsky

Lydia Savatsky majored in mathematics, minored in global community development partnerships, earned a Peace Corps Prep certificate, received the Dean of Students’ Award for Service (2020-2021), and completed a community engagement pathway for her honors program. On her pathway, Lydia did data analysis with the Appalachia Service Project, and mentored a young women’s leadership program. Lydia is off to the University of Minnesota to work towards a master’s degree in business analytics.

Lexi Steve

Lexi Steve graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering and a minor in Spanish. Lexi was a member of the Green Campus Enterprise, a founding member of Students for Sustainability, a resident of the Sustainability House, a University Innovation Fellow, a learning facilitator for HON 2150, and interned for Husky Innovate and IDEAhub. On her global and community engagement pathway, Lexi piloted a community project in Peru, hosting design workshops for afterschool teachers, community parents, and a local volunteer organization. What’s next for Lexi? “A few main options: convert a travel van, become a co-world renowned chef, mentor some kiddos in California, or build a greenhouse–nothing is set in stone, but the world is full of opportunities!”

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