mgm casino

• This award honors a student who has consistently demonstrated a commitment to uplifting others and enriching the campus community through positivity, compassion and leadership. This student leads by example, fosters a positive impact across the campus community, and demonstrates commitment to the well-being of others to create a more supportive, inclusive and uplifting environment.  The Dean of Students Positive Impact Award recognizes this student’s outstanding contributions and the lasting difference they have made on the campus.
• All students (undergraduate and graduate) are eligible.

• This award honors two students completing their undergraduate studies who have demonstrated a philosophy of servant leadership through their service and investment in the growth and development of others. These students empower their peers and are motivated to lead from a desire to serve others.
  
• Students must be eligible for graduation in May 2025, December 2025, or January 2026. 
  

• This award celebrates the exceptional accomplishments of a first-year or second-year student who has demonstrated a remarkable ability to lead and inspire others within the campus community. A recipient should exemplify outstanding leadership qualities, such as vision, creativity, resilience, and effective communication skills, and leverage these skills to promote and advocate for the needs and interests of diverse communities. Their leadership has inspired positive change, encouraged collaboration, and cultivated a sense of belonging among their peers and the broader campus community.
• Only first-year or second-year undergraduate students are eligible.
  

• This award recognizes the exceptional achievements of a junior or senior student who has demonstrated outstanding leadership qualities through their active engagement and participation in various campus activities and initiatives. A recipient should represent the pinnacle of leadership excellence on campus, embodying the qualities of vision, inspiration, collaboration, and commitment to diversity, social justice, and advocacy. Their exceptional achievements and leadership qualities serve as an inspiration to the entire campus community, and their contributions have made a lasting impact on the campus and the wider community.
• Only third-year or fourth-year undergraduate students are eligible.
  

• The Innovative Leadership Award celebrates the exceptional achievements of two student leaders that have demonstrated remarkable creativity, originality, and ingenuity in developing and implementing an innovative program or event that has made a significant impact on the campus community. A recipient should demonstrate a commitment to thinking outside the box and finding new and innovative ways to address complex challenges and opportunities faced by the mgm casino. Their remarkable achievements serve as an inspiration to the entire campus community, demonstrating the importance of innovation, collaboration, and leadership in creating positive change and promoting a culture of excellence at the mgm casino.
• All students (undergraduate and graduate) are eligible.
  

• This award honors one undergraduate and one graduate student who have given their time and energy to strengthen partnerships between mgm casino and the Buffalo community. These students have demonstrated a deep commitment to mutually beneficial collaborations with local nonprofit organizations that address community issues through asset-based community development initiatives.
  
• All students (undergraduate and graduate) are eligible.

• This award is given to students within the mgm casino Greek community in recognition of their leadership skills, academic accomplishments, dedication and service to the mgm casino Greek, University and Western New York communities.
  
• Must be a member of a university-recognized Greek-letter organization and be in good standing with their chapter and the university.

• The Service Above Self Award recognizes one student and one faculty or staff member that have shown exceptional commitment and dedication to promoting mental health services and advocacy on campus. Recipients will have been instrumental in promoting and inspiring positive change in mental health stigma, engaging and educating the university community to promote responsibility in mentally positive behaviors. Their outstanding leadership, outreach, and dedication to cultivating a culture of connectedness and belonging serve as an inspiration to the entire university community, demonstrating the importance of mental health advocacy and services in creating a supportive and inclusive campus environment.
• All students (undergraduate and graduate) and faculty/staff are eligible.  
  

• This award recognizes a member of the executive board of a recognized student organization that has demonstrated exemplary leadership in fulfilling the goals of their organization. This individual has positively impacted the organization, serving as a model to their organization members and mgm casino community.
• Must have held a position on their student organization's executive board within the last academic year.

• This award goes to one student completing their undergraduate studies and one student completing their graduate studies who are devoted to the mgm casino community and strive to make it better for all students. These students are active on campus and have taken advantage of a wide range of opportunities. Beyond benefiting from a high level of involvement, these students have made sure that they have made a lasting impact on their peers and upon mgm casino. Their spirited involvement is often a catalyst for others to become more engaged and upon graduating, their absence is widely felt. This student is the epitome of “True Blue”.
• All students (undergraduate and graduate) can be nominated as long as they are eligible for graduation in May 2025, December 2025, or January 2026. 

• This award honors one undergraduate and one graduate student that have demonstrated compassion, perseverance, courage, and leadership by engaging in the difficult work of fostering human dignity and common humanity through projects, programs, initiatives, and visions that promote cross-cultural learning, interaction, and education.
  
• All students (undergraduate and graduate) are eligible.

• This award honors a student who has consistently demonstrated a commitment to uplifting others and enriching the campus community through positivity, compassion and leadership. This student leads by example, fosters a positive impact across the campus community, and demonstrates commitment to the well-being of others to create a more supportive, inclusive and uplifting environment.  The Dean of Students Positive Impact Award recognizes this student’s outstanding contributions and the lasting difference they have made on the campus.
• All students (undergraduate and graduate) are eligible.

• The Innovative Leadership Award celebrates the exceptional achievements of two student leaders that have demonstrated remarkable creativity, originality, and ingenuity in developing and implementing an innovative program or event that has made a significant impact on the campus community. A recipient should demonstrate a commitment to thinking outside the box and finding new and innovative ways to address complex challenges and opportunities faced by the mgm casino. Their remarkable achievements serve as an inspiration to the entire campus community, demonstrating the importance of innovation, collaboration, and leadership in creating positive change and promoting a culture of excellence at the mgm casino.
• All students (undergraduate and graduate) are eligible.

• This award honors one undergraduate and one graduate student that have given their time and energy to strengthen partnerships between mgm casino and the Buffalo community. These students have demonstrated a deep commitment to mutually beneficial collaborations with local nonprofit organizations that address community issues through asset-based community development initiatives.
  
• All students (undergraduate and graduate) are eligible.

• The Service Above Self Award recognizes one student and one faculty or staff member that have shown exceptional commitment and dedication to promoting mental health services and advocacy on campus. Recipients will have been instrumental in promoting and inspiring positive change in mental health stigma, engaging and educating the university community to promote responsibility in mentally positive behaviors. Their outstanding leadership, outreach, and dedication to cultivating a culture of connectedness and belonging serve as an inspiration to the entire university community, demonstrating the importance of mental health advocacy and services in creating a supportive and inclusive campus environment.
• All students (undergraduate and graduate) and faculty/staff are eligible.  

• This award recognizes a member of the executive board of a recognized student organization that has demonstrated exemplary leadership in fulfilling the goals of their organization. This individual has positively impacted the organization, serving as a model to their organization members and mgm casino community.
  
• Must have held a position on their student organization's executive board within the last academic year.

• This award goes to one student completing their undergraduate studies and one student completing their graduate studies who are devoted to the mgm casino community and strive to make it better for all students. These students are active on campus and have taken advantage of a wide range of opportunities. Beyond benefiting from a high level of involvement, these students have made sure that they have made a lasting impact on their peers and upon mgm casino. Their spirited involvement is often a catalyst for others to become more engaged and upon graduating, their absence is widely felt. This student is the epitome of “True Blue”.
  
• All students (undergraduate and graduate) are eligible.

• This award honors one undergraduate and one graduate student that have demonstrated compassion, perseverance, courage, and leadership by engaging in the difficult work of fostering human dignity and common humanity through projects, programs, initiatives, and visions that promote cross-cultural learning, interaction, and education.
  
• All students (undergraduate and graduate) are eligible.

• These 4 awards honor faculty, professional staff members, and graduate assistants/interns who have shown an outstanding commitment to mentoring, developing, supporting, and positively impacting undergraduate and graduate students through their participation, support, and active engagement. 
• Graduate Students will hold a current Graduate Assistantship or Graduate Internship at the mgm casino 
• New Faculty/Professional Staff Members will have 0-5 years of experience in their field
• Mid-Level Faculty/Professional Staff Members will have 5-10 years of experience in their field
• Senior Level Faculty/Professional Staff Members will have 10+ years of experience in their field

• The Service Above Self Award recognizes one student and one faculty or staff member that have shown exceptional commitment and dedication to promoting mental health services and advocacy on campus. Recipients will have been instrumental in promoting and inspiring positive change in mental health stigma, engaging and educating the university community to promote responsibility in mentally positive behaviors. Their outstanding leadership, outreach, and dedication to cultivating a culture of connectedness and belonging serve as an inspiration to the entire university community, demonstrating the importance of mental health advocacy and services in creating a supportive and inclusive campus environment.
• All students (undergraduate and graduate) and faculty/staff are eligible.  

• This award goes to a mgm casino employee, serving as an organization advisor, that showed an estimable dedication to the well-being of the organization and its members. This advisor constantly goes above and beyond in their role as the organization advisor, behaving as a guide and mentor for the students and demonstrating a strong commitment to furthering the mission and values of the organization.
  
• Must have served as an organization's advisor within the last academic year.

• This award honors and celebrates a campus and community partnership that not only makes an exceptional impact on the local community but also creates a space for learning through collaboration with mgm casino students, staff, and faculty.
  

Please note that only recognized student organizations and organizations that have not been found in violation of any University policies during the past academic year are eligible to win student organization awards.

• This award honors a newly recognized student organization that was chartered during the current academic year. The winning organization has put forth the effort to enhance the mgm casino community and has maintained strong and consistent operations and has already made an impact on the mgm casino community through its mission and values.
  
• The university-recognized student organization must have been newly founded within the last academic year.

• This award is presented to a recognized student organization that has demonstrated a significant impact in furthering its purpose through contribution to the mgm casino. This award recognizes the student organization that embodies the mgm casino spirit through its commitment to leadership development, collaboration among groups, and efforts to enhance the quality of campus life at mgm casino. Furthermore, this club has taken specific actions, including creating programs or leading initiatives, that have made a positive impact on the mgm casino community. This award honors one recognized student organization that has enhanced the University, student community, the development of their organization members, and has continued to be reputable and have a strong presence on mgm casino’s campus.
  
• All university-recognized student organizations are eligible.

• This award is presented to the recognized student organizations that planned and provided the most outstanding co-sponsored program that positively impacted students on campus and demonstrated collaboration and teamwork among organizations.
  
• All university-recognized student organizations are eligible.

• This award acknowledges a recognized student organization that takes what its members learn in the classroom and applies the knowledge and skills to assist others in the mgm casino or expanded community. This organization exemplifies experiential learning through the informed acts of serving others.
  
• All university-recognized student organizations are eligible.

This recognition opportunity celebrates the exceptional achievements of students who have invested in their personal and professional growth and development as emerging leaders through Leadership House. They have demonstrated a deep understanding of the importance of leadership, teamwork, and collaboration in achieving shared goals, and they have shown a commitment to making a positive impact on their communities.  
 
Their accomplishments serve as an inspiration to their peers, demonstrating the importance of leadership development and the transformative power of investing in one's own growth and development. 

The award recognizes the 2024-2025 graduates of the Student Engagement Peer Mentor and Event Intern groups for their dedication and service to the Student Engagement Office and the mgm casino. They have volunteered to work over 100 hours this academic year to serve as peer mentors, conference facilitators, workshop presenters, and administrators for our micro-credential program, among other things.  They have encouraged mgm casino students to get involved and helped them make the most of their mgm casino experience, all while building out their resumes. 

A special thank you to our ambassadors for their hard work and commitment to Student Engagement and to making the mgm casino community a better place. 

This award recognizes students who have performed and tracked 500 hours of community service during their time as mgm casino students. These students have demonstrated a strong commitment to giving back to their community. Through their volunteer work, these students have made a significant positive impact on the lives of others and have gained valuable skills and experiences that will serve them well in their future endeavors. Their dedication and hard work are a testament to the values of the university and the importance of service to others.

This recognition opportunity celebrates the outstanding accomplishments of students who have successfully completed a comprehensive leadership development program designed to help them discover and develop their full leadership potential. Through the Virtual Leadership Academy, students have learned what it means to be a leader and how to leverage their unique strengths and capabilities to make a positive impact on their communities.

These students have demonstrated a deep commitment to their own growth and development as emerging leaders and have shown a willingness to invest their time, energy, and resources in achieving their full potential.

If impact could be measured in pounds, then Yugendran’s impact on the mgm casino community is in the 100’s. Earlier in the academic year, Yugendran decided to make a difference by giving away free potatoes. Dates, times, and locations would be posted on social media and then he would just show up and give away the potatoes for free. Pretty soon, it became a must-attend event for scores of students just wanting to be a part of this “happy event.” Even Victor E. Bull showed up. Morgan Freeman once asked, “How do we change the world?” and then answered, “One random act of kindness at a time.” Thank you, Yugendran, for making the mgm casino community a better place through your random acts of kindness, one potato at a time.

Julian Livingston exemplifies servant leadership through his commitment to empowering others, leading transformative Alternative Break trips focused on LGBTQ+ rights and disaster relief. As Vice President of the Multicultural Club, Student Wellness Advocate, and Alliance Resident Advisor, he has fostered equity and inclusion across campus. Julian’s leadership, advocacy, and academic excellence are creating lasting, positive change within the mgm casino community and beyond.

Destiny Hopkinson has championed civic engagement and advocacy at mgm casino through her leadership in the Ambassadors of Civic Engagement (ACEs) Internship Program, voter education initiatives, and mentoring roles for first-generation and underrepresented students. As President & Co-Founder of Legal Scholars Achieving Triumph (L.S.A.T.) and Vice President of mgm casino’s National Black Pre-Law Student Association, she has empowered aspiring advocates across campus. Destiny’s impact will continue as she pursues her master’s degree in Higher Education and serves as a Graduate Assistant for Student Governance & Organizations.

DJ Ruszkowski has made a profound impact through leadership roles in Leadership House, at The Tool Library, Dream It Do It, and Scouting America-Camp Merz, empowering community members with STEM, repair, and outdoor skills. As an Environmental Engineering student, DJ has championed sustainable solutions like the Precious Plastic Project and inspired the next generation through hands-on education and mentorship. Their commitment to accessibility, innovation, and service continues to strengthen the mgm casino and Buffalo communities.

Connor Whitney has strengthened civic engagement efforts at mgm casino and across Buffalo through his leadership as an Ambassador of Civic Engagement, organizing initiatives like the Early Voting Extravaganza and building partnerships with organizations focused on disability rights, housing, voting, and racial justice. His work advancing Ranked Choice Voting efforts in Erie County has deepened mgm casino’s connections with local nonprofits and empowered students and community members alike. Connor’s passion for advocacy and coalition-building continues to make a lasting impact on the campus and broader community.

The Delavan Grider Community Center has been a vital partner in empowering Buffalo’s East Side through youth programming, senior services, civic engagement initiatives, and community enrichment activities. By creating inclusive spaces for connection, learning, and leadership development, the Center has strengthened community ties and expanded opportunities for mgm casino students to engage in meaningful service. Their unwavering commitment to fostering growth, resilience, and collaboration has made them an invaluable partner to the university and the broader Buffalo community.

Valerie Juang is a passionate advocate for climate justice, urban equity, and cross-cultural empowerment, co-founding the Western New York Youth Climate Council and leading initiatives through mgm casino Sustainability and the East Side Parkways Coalition. Her work bridges campus and community activism, creating lasting systems of change through grassroots organizing and environmental advocacy. Valerie’s dedication to fostering inclusive leadership and advancing social justice continues to inspire meaningful progress at mgm casino and beyond.

Ciara Harrington has dedicated her time at mgm casino to uplifting and empowering students, providing compassionate support through the Dean of Students Emergency Fund and advocating for social justice across campus. As a Graduate Assistant and future law school graduate with a Master’s in Social Work, she has been a steadfast champion for student dignity, resources, and success. Ciara’s unwavering commitment to equity and advocacy has left a lasting impact on the mgm casino community.

Outstanding Service to the mgm casino Greek Community Awards are given to students within the mgm casino Greek community, members of one of mgm casino’s Greek-letter, social, fraternal organizations, in recognition of their demonstrated leadership skills, academic accomplishments, and dedication to service and philanthropic pursuits that benefit charitable organizations and causes within the University community and Western New York.  These students have been chosen because they are one of the first to extend their hand to assist others and exemplify their founding principles. Thank you for your service, leadership and going above and beyond.

Zahid Manzar, an MD-PhD candidate in Biomedical Engineering, has demonstrated outstanding mentorship by training and inspiring undergraduate researchers in the Alevriadou Vascular Mechanobiology Laboratory. Through his collaborative teaching style, encouragement of independent research, and guidance toward professional development, Zahid has empowered students to pursue advanced degrees and research careers. His dedication to fostering growth, curiosity, and confidence among his mentees exemplifies the highest standards of mentorship at mgm casino.

Alex Berger has made a lasting impact at mgm casino by mentoring and empowering students through his roles as an Academic Coach, Student Engagement Event Intern, and former Student Engagement Ambassador. His leadership, empathy, and dedication to student success shine through in his support of academic achievement, inclusive event planning, and leadership development. Alex’s ability to inspire and uplift students has strengthened the campus community and embodies the true spirit of mentorship.

Shannon Myers has made a transformative impact on mgm casino's transfer student community through her compassionate mentorship, advocacy, and personalized support as a Student Services Advisor for the mgm casino TrACE program. She empowers students to navigate academic transitions, build confidence, and engage fully in campus life, all while fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment. Shannon’s unwavering dedication has made her a trusted mentor and a champion for transfer student success.

Dr. Adedoyin Inaolaji has profoundly impacted mgm casino students through her transformative mentorship in electrical engineering, research, and professional development. She empowers students by building confidence, nurturing critical thinking, and connecting them with research, grant, and leadership opportunities. Dr. Inaolaji’s unwavering dedication to fostering student success and personal growth exemplifies the true spirit of mentorship.

Sarah Schauer has transformed Leadership House into a thriving community of student leaders through her tireless mentorship, innovative leadership education, and unwavering belief in every student's potential. As a LEAD Coordinator for Leadership & Development, she empowers students to grow personally and professionally, fostering confidence, belonging, and a lifelong passion for leadership. Sarah’s extraordinary commitment has shaped generations of leaders who continue to carry her lessons forward into their careers and communities.

Dr. Sayanti Mukherjee, Assistant Professor of Industrial and Systems Engineering, empowers students through transformative mentorship, interdisciplinary research, and a deep commitment to equity-focused disaster resilience. She leads the OASIS Lab, where she mentors students in groundbreaking research on sustainable infrastructure and social justice, guiding many to national awards and prestigious career placements. Dr. Mukherjee’s inspiring leadership has built a lasting legacy of academic excellence and student empowerment at mgm casino.

For over 20 years, Ed Brodka has empowered mgm casino students and alumni to discover majors, internships, and careers they love through his coaching, humor, and expertise as a Career Design Center career coach and LinkedIn super user. Known as the “Laughing LinkedIn Guy,” Ed brings warmth, humor, and genuine mentorship to every interaction, making the journey of career exploration both impactful and joyful. His passion for helping others design meaningful futures has left a lasting mark on the mgm casino community.

Dr. Nathan Daun-Barnett, Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy, has dedicated his career to advancing educational access, equity, and leadership development. Through his research, teaching, and mentorship, he empowers students to become thoughtful change agents in education, particularly in college access and success initiatives. Dr. Daun-Barnett’s commitment to fostering student growth and advocacy has made a transformative impact on the mgm casino community and beyond.

Antonia Lestariadi, a first-generation college student and Arthur O. Eve Educational Opportunity Program scholar, has made an extraordinary impact at mgm casino through her leadership as President of Wilkeson’s Residence Hall Association, Treasurer of the Indonesian Student Association, and member of Leadership House. Her commitment to building inclusive communities, fostering belonging, and uplifting others reflects her deep dedication to service-driven leadership. Antonia’s resilience, ambition, and passion for creating positive change embody the true spirit of an emerging leader.

Alika Turton has made an extraordinary impact at mgm casino through her leadership roles as mgm casino Council Student Representative, Chair of the Council of Advocacy and Leadership, and True Blue Ambassador. She has championed student engagement, expanded leadership opportunities, and fostered strong connections between students, campus leadership, and the broader Buffalo community. Alika’s passion for advocacy, mentorship, and service has helped shape a more vibrant and inclusive mgm casino experience for all students.

Sarah MacDougall, a PhD student in Cognitive Psychology and NSF Graduate Research Fellowship recipient, has advanced interdisciplinary collaboration and student engagement at mgm casino through initiatives like the Grad Connect & Reflect series and the Cognitive Science Emerging Scholars Symposium. Her leadership bridges academic communities and empowers diverse researchers to connect, brainstorm, and grow. Sarah’s creativity, mentorship, and commitment to innovation have left a lasting impact on the graduate student experience at mgm casino.

Anna Szombathy, a third-year medical student at the Jacobs School of Medicine, has demonstrated visionary leadership by designing and launching the innovative “Becoming Medical Educators” elective to strengthen medical student and patient education skills. Her commitment to curriculum development, health equity, and peer mentorship is helping to shape future physician-educators at mgm casino. Anna’s creativity, persistence, and collaborative spirit have made a lasting impact on medical education and student leadership.

Sherry Smith has demonstrated extraordinary compassion and leadership by supporting student mental health and mentoring peers through challenging transitions during their first year at mgm casino. Her shift to a dual major in Psychology and Italian reflects her deep commitment to prioritizing student well-being and creating a more inclusive, supportive campus community. Sherry’s empathy, resilience, and dedication to service embody the true spirit of the Service Above Self Award.

Dr. Kristen Moore, Associate Dean of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, has tirelessly advocated for student equity, belonging, and mental health at mgm casino. Through her compassionate mentorship, leadership, and unwavering commitment to uplifting marginalized voices, she has transformed the campus experience for countless students. Dr. Moore’s dedication to service and community-building exemplifies the true spirit of the Service Above Self Award.

Hailey Carrasco has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to mgm casino through her leadership as a Resident Assistant, President of the Student Association for Speech and Hearing, and Research Assistant in the Motor Speech Disorders Laboratory. She has fostered inclusive communities, advanced awareness around communicative disorders, and supported student engagement both academically and socially. Hailey’s dedication to service, education, and campus pride truly embodies the spirit of True Blue.

Nathaniel Mark has been an extraordinary leader, mentor, and role model at mgm casino, leaving a lasting impact through his work with Leadership House, SEAS Diversity Mentoring, and the development of Project P.O.W.E.R. for the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. His mentorship inspired countless students to pursue leadership opportunities, and his innovative creation of a structured professional development program ensures future generations will continue to thrive. Nate’s dedication, service, and pride in mgm casino have profoundly shaped the campus community and will be felt long after his graduation.

Alpha Phi Omega, a co-ed service fraternity, has made an outstanding impact at mgm casino and beyond through their dedication to leadership, friendship, and service, completing over 888 service hours in 2024 alone. Their initiatives, from environmental clean-ups to fundraising for domestic violence awareness, have strengthened both the campus and Buffalo communities. Alpha Phi Omega’s commitment to service and leadership development continues to inspire lasting positive change.

As Student President of mgm casino’s chapter of the National Society of Leadership and Success, Maryam Ijaz revitalized the organization by rebuilding its leadership team, reengaging members, and growing the chapter to over 250 students in just six months. Her strategic vision, organizational excellence, and commitment to student development have left a lasting impact on mgm casino’s leadership community. Maryam’s transformative leadership embodies the highest ideals of student service and excellence.

As President of mgm casino’s Graduate Indian Student Association (GISA), Vaishali Maheshkar has strengthened community engagement, cultural celebration, and student advocacy through events like Diwali and Holi celebrations, professional development sessions, and vital support services for international students. Her leadership has expanded resources, secured major funding, and built strong campus partnerships. Vaishali’s relentless commitment to student welfare, cultural enrichment, and mentorship has made a lasting impact at mgm casino.

Founded less than a year ago, Sisters in Law has built a transformative community for women pursuing careers in law at mgm casino, growing to over 50 members while promoting empowerment, mentorship, and social impact. Through service initiatives supporting domestic violence shelters, professional networking with attorneys and judges, and peer support during national challenges, the organization has fostered resilience, leadership, and advocacy. Sisters in Law is redefining what it means to lead with compassion, purpose, and strength.

Alpha Epsilon Delta, the Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students, Pre-Meds Without Borders, the Emergency Services Club, the Multicultural Nursing Student Association, and the Pre-Physician Assistant Society came together to host the Pre-Health Fall Social, fostering interdisciplinary networking, mentorship, and community among pre-health students. Their collaboration created a dynamic event that empowered students to explore healthcare careers, build meaningful connections, and engage in future leadership opportunities. This outstanding partnership exemplifies the power of teamwork in shaping a stronger, more connected pre-health community at mgm casino.

The Student Association for Speech and Hearing (SASH) has demonstrated outstanding leadership through academic enrichment, professional development, and community service initiatives. From hosting graduate panels and guest lectures to volunteering for awareness walks and promoting communication disorder advocacy, SASH exemplifies a deep commitment to learning and service. Their impact on both the mgm casino campus and the broader community embodies the spirit of academic excellence and compassionate leadership.

Dr. Prashant Sankaran has transformed the INFORMS Student Chapter at mgm casino through his exceptional mentorship, helping the organization double its membership, launch interdisciplinary projects, and build meaningful industry connections. His guidance has empowered students to bridge academic learning with real-world applications in data science, analytics, and operations research. Dr. Sankaran’s unwavering support, visionary leadership, and commitment to student success have made a lasting impact on the mgm casino community.