Academic Awards Ceremony Recognizes Top Student Scholars
It's a USCB tradition. The day before graduation, the university recognizes exceptional students in the graduating class at the annual Academic Awards Ceremony.
"Your achievement speaks to two characteristics that you all share: commitment and
persistence," Chancellor Al M. Panu told the students gathered with their family and
friends in the Center for the Arts on the Beauafort campus.
These are the outstanding students of the USCB Class of 2026:
HAYDEN DUNNING - OUTSTANDING BIOLOGY STUDENT OF THE YEAR
As a student in the Coastal Ecology and Conservation Honors Program, Hayden has distinguished
herself through exceptional academic performance and research excellence. Over the
past
two years, she has been an integral member of Dr. Eric Montie’s research team, helping
advance the Estuarine Soundscape Observatory Network in the Southeast (ESONS). Her
research
compares estuarine soundscapes across South Carolina, examining how biological acoustic
patterns are disrupted in urbanized systems like Charleston Harbor. Hayden also contributes
extensively in the field, assisting with bottlenose dolphin surveys and servicing
acoustic recorders. An outstanding communicator, she has presented her work at USCB
Research and Scholarship Day, Discover USC, and the South Carolina Chapter of the
American Fisheries Society.
KRISTIANS LEVENSTEINS - OUTSTANDING BUSINESS STUDENT OF THE YEAR
Kris exemplifies leadership, dedication, and academic excellence. A business major
with a concentration in marketing, Kris is described by his professors as “levelheaded,
attentive to
detail, and someone who consistently asks thoughtful questions.” As a member of the
Sand Sharks Baseball Team, he has been a key contributor on the field and a respected
senior leader who
mentors younger teammates. Off the field, he is an active member of the campus community,
regularly supporting fellow Sand Sharks by attending other athletic events. Kris
plans to pursue a business career in the Southeast, building on the knowledge, discipline,
and leadership skills he developed as a student-athlete at USCB.
TYLER A. JOHNSON - PAMELA J. COOPER COMMUNICATION STUDIES STUDENT OF THE YEAR
Tyler has been a frequent contributor to The Pen, USCB’s student-led literary journal,
and served as a content intern with SCETV during Summer 2024. A true renaissance man,
Tyler enjoys
making mixed cassette tapes, engaging in philosophical conversations about the work
of Bob Dylan, and reading the works of Kurt Vonnegut and Hunter S. Thompson.
DANIEL SCHEER - OUTSTANDING COMPUTATIONAL SCIENCE STUDENT OF THE YEAR
Daniel, originally from Stockholm, Sweden, is recognized for his outstanding achievement
across the Computational Science curriculum and for his consistently engaged, hardworking
presence in the classroom. Department faculty describe him as a thoughtful and ambitious
student who sees possibilities others might miss, bringing both curiosity and care
to his work. After
graduation, Daniel will remain at USCB to pursue his master’s degree in Computational
Science. His future research interests as a computational scientist are wide-ranging,
but he is particularly interested in applying his skills to the development of more
efficient and resilient energy systems.
IAN BICKFORD - OUTSTANDING INFORMATION SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
STUDENT OF THE YEAR
An active-duty Marine and firearms instructor, Ian brings discipline and focus to
everything he does. He is a standout performer in all of his classes—perhaps most
notably, he was the
only student to solve every challenge in a recent “Capture the Flag” cybersecurity
competition. Respected by faculty and students alike, he elevates those around him
through his drive,
curiosity, leadership, and contagious enthusiasm. Following graduation, Ian aspires
to pursue a career in cybersecurity, particularly in red team ethical hacking.
KILEY HOWELL - OUTSTANDING EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION STUDENT OF THE YEAR
In pursuit of her degree, Kiley has repeatedly overcome obstacles through perseverance
and a growth mindset. During her time at USCB, she has been active with the Education
Club
and served as president during her junior year. Kiley served as the President of Best
Buddies, a program for people with intellectual disorders, for three years, and she
works for the
Leadership and Service office for Student Life. Her work with Best Buddies and her
work with children through her education highlight her passion for helping others
reach their full potential. After graduation, Kiley plans to teach locally and continue
to make a difference in the lives of people.
SHIRLEY ANN VELAZQUEZ RODRIGUEZ - OUTSTANDING ELEMENTARY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION STUDENT
OF THE YEAR
During her time at USCB, Shirley was known for her kindness, enthusiasm, and dedication
to creating spaces where everyone felt valued. She served on the board of the Voices
of Diversity
Club where she has helped celebrate cultural representation on campus and encouraged
meaningful conversations that brought students together. After graduating in fall
2025, Shirley began her career as a 6th-grade math teacher at Bridges Preparatory
School, where she continues to inspire her students to believe in themselves, stay
curious, and embrace learning in all its forms. She is committed to creating a classroom
environment that celebrates every student’s individuality and encourages a lifelong
love of learning.
REBECCA TALIAFERRO - TOMBE/EBY OUTSTANDING ENGLISH STUDENT OF THE YEAR
Rebecca is well known among her faculty and peers alike for the intelligence, talent,
and dedication she brings to her ever-stellar academic work. Her scholastic achievements
are all the more
impressive given her astounding resume of leadership roles at USCB. As a key member
of The Pen staff, and current Senior Assistant Editor, Rebecca has labored meticulously
in every aspect
of the journal’s creation. She has also shined in her positions as Vice President
of the Society of Creative Writers, as President of Voices of Diversity (a vibrant
student organization she founded), as an Orientation Leader and Student Ambassador,
and as Secretary for the SGA. She is a natural leader—kind, compassionate, fun-loving,
bright, thoughtful, and generous, providing the kind of
mentorship that has made the English program a desirable and safe place for so many.
KARINA IAFFALDANO - GOVERNOR PAUL HAMILTON SONS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION OUTSTANDING
HISTORY STUDENT OF THE YEAR
Karina values the study of history for the way it has deepened her understanding of
current events and helped her to appreciate the value of seeing a problem from multiple
perspectives. She has a
passion for the performing arts—especially ballet and German opera—which have informed
the direction of her own historical research. After graduation, Karina plans to pursue
a career in the
legal field.
BRANDI GOWER - OUTSTANDING HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT STUDENT OF THE YEAR Brandi is a testament to the power of higher education, garnering her a second chance at a new career. She is a dedicated student and industry professional with a lifetime of previous experience that has helped transform not only her life, but also the lives of the students around her. She is known among the faculty and students for her smile and warm friendly demeanor.
ISABELLA ESTEVES - GORDON HAIST INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES OUTSTANDING STUDENT OF THE YEAR
Following a year of college in West Virginia, the women’s soccer team, the Interdisciplinary
Studies program, and the greater USCB community was made better by the matriculation
of Isabella, aka
Bella. During her tenure at USCB, Bella demonstrated the possibilities promised in
an individualized course of study, blossoming into a scholar with tremendous curiosity
and academic
appetite. She did that which we admire most: she grew and evolved. Bella’s scholastic
interest began to mingle with her professional and athletic aspirations. She helmed
a course that married exercise science, medical humanities, and nutrition. Bella’s
focus turned to the ways in which to advocate for positive physical and mental health
outcomes in the coaching of adolescent women.
She then applied that knowledge to her work as an Assistant Coach of three teams in
the Tormenta Football club. Bella’s generosity continues in her vocational ambitions
as she pursues a career working with the fire department while continuing to coach.
REBECCA THORNTON - OUTSTANDING INTERDSCIPLINARY STUDIES ONLINE PROGRAM
STUDENT OF THE YEAR
Rebecca joined the Interdisciplinary Studies online program after completing her Associate’s
degree at USC-Union. While she has long pursued a course of study rooted in the care
of individuals and the greater community, it was during the latter part of her academic
journey that she discovered a passion for nutrition and its vital role in overall
well-being. Through her comprehensive work in both the medical humanities and public
health, Rebecca expanded
her healthcare acumen, integrating critical thinking with compassionate practice and
setting an advantageous path toward her professional pursuits. She has been described
by faculty as both thoughtful and dedicated, consistently demonstrating intellectual
curiosity and integrity. Rebecca also emerged as a supportive leader among her peers,
helping guide them through the sometimes difficult terrain of online coursework while
fostering a collaborative and encouraging learning environment.
TIEN NGUYEN - FOUNDING CHANCELLOR JANE T. UPSHAW MATHEMATICS OUTSTANDING STUDENT OF
THE YEAR
Tien has been not only an outstanding student, but also an exceptional math tutor,
guiding students from College Algebra to Calculus and helping them not only succeed,
but also feel more confident in their abilities. His passion for mathematics and commitment
to supporting others truly stand out. He has been accepted into the Ph.D. program
in Mathematics at Clemson University.
FAITH JACKSON - OUTSTANDING PUBLIC HEALTH STUDENT OF THE YEAR
Faith is an outstanding student as well as an extraordinary human being in and out
of the classroom. She not only excels in her coursework, completing multiple honors
projects on health
disparities and social justice, but she practices what she preaches. Twice, she participated
in the study abroad service trip to South Dakota, helping to support Native American
communities. Known for her energy and passion, Faith is an intern at Volunteers in
Medicine, a USCB Student Ambassador, and the 2025 Homecoming Queen. She is on the
President’s list, the Chancellor’s list, and will complete her degree as an Honors
student.
DAYLE SOTO - LYNN M. MULKEY HUMAN SERVICES PROGRAM OUTSTANDING STUDENT OF THE YEAR
Dayle is a Marine Corps veteran who worked as an F-35 ejection seat mechanic and held
leadership responsibilities as a Non-Commissioned Officer. Dayle’s experiences in
the Marine Corps
inspired her to pursue a career in human services to focus on supporting vulnerable
populations. Currently, Dayle is completing an internship with Hopeful Horizons, where
she works with
children who have experienced trauma and abuse. This experience has strengthened her
passion for roles that support children, families, and military-connected communities.
Dayle consistently strives to connect her academic learning with real-world experiences,
enabling her to advocate for and support others. Her goal is a career supporting and
advocating for female military service members and their families, drawing from her
own military experience and passion for helping this community.
TYLER COLE - PALMETTO COLLEGE HUMAN SERVICES OUTSTANDING STUDENT OF THE YEAR
Tyler works full-time as a cook at a country club during the day and focuses on his
academics and internships in his off hours. His coursework performance and time management
skills are extraordinary. For his first internship, Tyler worked with the Program
for Exceptional People, focused on helping special needs adults with training in life
skills and job readiness to help
them become more independent, providing them with meaningful community engagement
opportunities. During his second field experience placement, Tyler served in USCB
Student Life working in outreach, supplying students with connections and encouragement
to get involved with
community service. Tyler is a preeminent example of a Palmetto College student, a
working adult pursuing academic excellence and experiential learning with creativity
and flexibility.
ABIGAIL HAYES - OUTSTANDING NURSING STUDENT OF THE YEAR
Abigail has been a wonderful leader in her cohort and actively participates in many
organizations across campus, including FCA. Abigail lives locally and works as a nurse
intern at Beaufort Memorial Hospital, where she stays calm, handles everything with
kindness, and constantly strives to learn more about whatever experience she can get.
She holds herself to a high standard—
always being prepared for class, studying for exams, and helping others. She demonstrates
academic excellence, integrity, leadership, and consistently serves as a positive
role model for fellow students.
FRANKLIN BRYANT - OUTSTANDING ONLINE PSYCHOLOGY STUDENT OF THE YEAR
Frank is a member of the Psi Chi International Honor Society and Phi Theta Kappa honor
society. He has received early acceptance to Adams State University graduate school
to begin pursuing an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in the fall, focusing
on rural and underserved populations. Drawing on experience gained while volunteering
in victim advocacy, his interests include men’s mental health and life transitions,
trauma recovery, anger management, and breaking cycles of abuse. Frank is committed
to fostering resilience, accountability, and emotional growth in the
individuals and communities he serves.
KALLIOPI HARDEN - CHARLES L. SPIRRISON OUTSTANDING PSYCHOLOGY STUDENT OF THE YEAR
Kalli is a Beaufort College Honors Program student, focusing her studies on developmental
psychology, clinical psychology, and various topics in communication studies. She
works as the
general psychology tutor and holds an internship with Beaufort High School’s Counseling
Department in collaboration with USC’s School Behavioral Health Team. She has been
an active member of five student organizations and three honor societies and has served
in various leadership roles throughout her undergraduate career. After graduation,
Kalli plans to attend graduate school for Clinical Mental Health Counseling, with
the goal of becoming a Licensed Professional Counselor.
AUDREY RACKLEY - OUTSTANDING STUDIO ART STUDENT OF THE YEAR
Audrey is a painter and aspiring art historian whose work blends identity, femininity,
and myths. Drawing from medieval manuscripts, folklore, and symbolic creatures like
unicorns and vampiric figures, she uses these imagined beings to explore desire, power,
and the shifting nature of the self. Working slowly in layered oil, she builds figures
that feel intimate and alive. Her imagery sits between realism and fantasy, inviting
viewers into a world that is both familiar and strange. Through this blend of history,
emotion, and mythic symbolism, she encourages reflection on the complexity and magic
of identity. She has had work on display at the Sea Islands Center Gallery in
spring 2025 and spring 2026.
ELIANA PAVON - NEWMAN CIVIC FELLOWSHIP NOMINEE
The Newman Civic Fellowship Award is presented by a national organization that recognizes
college students who exhibit outstanding community outreach and service. Eliana is
a Human Services and Public Health major who is passionate about serving others and
creating positive changes in her community. Throughout her academic career, she has
served numerous roles which have provided her with hands-on experience working with
diverse populations. Currently, she is completing an internship with the Boys and
Girls Club of Bluffton where she supports youth development by fostering confidence,
leadership, and personal growth. This experience has strengthened her ability to create
supportive environments for children and families. Eliana holds USCB leadership roles
that allow her to advocate for inclusivity and student engagement. These include President
of the Human Services Student Organization and Vice President of the Gender and Sexuality
Alliance. These experiences continue to shape Eliana’s goal of pursuing a career focused
on helping individuals build confidence while
fostering respect, connection, and care within her community.
LYDIA GATTOZZI - DARWIN B BASHAW STUDENT OF THE YEAR
Lydia is a Communication Studies major with a minor in Sport Management. After transferring
to USCB, she served as a three-year captain of the women’s basketball team and held
leadership roles as President and Vice President of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee.
Lydia was one of six nationally selected students for a weeklong Multimedia Journalist
internship with the Broadcast Education Association. She has produced and anchored
campus sports content, contributed to live broadcasts with the Savannah Bananas, and
supported university marketing efforts. Lydia also leads team-based community service
initiatives with local organizations, reflecting her commitment to leadership, service,
and impact.
- USCB -
JJ 05/20/2026