The External Fellowships and Scholarships office recently held its third annual Wall of Honor reception on May 8, celebrating the achievements of 31 fellowship awardees. These individuals have distinguished themselves in competitive, merit-based fellowship and scholarship competitions for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Eleven awardees attended the ceremony, which acknowledged the contributions of faculty, staff, and mentors who assist students throughout the application process by reviewing applications, providing feedback on essays, and conducting preparatory interviews.
The digital Wall of Honor pays tribute to these awardees and highlights their hard work. It also serves as a resource and inspiration for future applicants. Each awardee received a commemorative pin to honor their achievement and serve as a reminder of their dedication.
Ashley Staples, director for external fellowships, addressed the attendees: “We are so proud of you for being recognized on the national stage,” she said. “Every single one of you did something that others didn’t, and that is hit submit.” Staples encouraged recipients to wear their pins as they graduate and pursue future endeavors.
Celia Marshik, Dean of the Graduate School and Vice Provost for Graduate Education, emphasized the significance of these accomplishments: “In earning these kinds of recognition, you have already put yourselves on the maps of your individual disciplines and career paths.”
Executive Vice President and Provost Carl Lejuez concluded with encouragement for honorees to appreciate their progress: “While you continue working diligently toward the next accolade... I encourage you to take time to look around and celebrate how far you’ve come.”
The event celebrated not only student achievements but also highlighted the support they received. Nasir Stovall expressed gratitude for his Schwarzman Scholarship recognition: “It was really special to be recognized at the Wall of Honor ceremony.” Madison Sida shared similar sentiments about her Critical Language Scholarship experience.
Lala Diawara described winning the Gilman Scholarship as a significant accomplishment: “Winning... showed me how much I can accomplish when I put my mind to something.”
The Wall of Honor Reception continues to highlight Stony Brook’s exceptional fellowship recipients while recognizing their courage in competitive processes. The event sets an example for future applicants aiming to make an impact nationally.