Alumni Scholars

Past Garfield Scholars

Select the graduating class below to see past Scholars from that year

Alumni Scholars

Norah Ali

Norah graduated with a double major in Physics and Political Science. She hopes to pursue a Masters or a PhD.

Lana Dahman

Lana received her nursing degree from Hiram College. She is going to work at the Cleveland Clinic as an oncology nurse. She is excited to take the multicultural experiences and knowledge she gained from the GCPL into her career. GCPL helped her grow as a person, and she is looking forward to see how that growth will impact her career.

Matthew Hecker

Matthew graduated with a degree in Biochemistry. His goal is to earn a doctorate.

Nick Krasnoschlik

Nick gradated with a degree in Biology with a Biomedical Humanities minor. Nick is interested in becoming a physician.

Erica Lohan

Erica graduated with a double major in Management and Theatre. She hopes to find a career in the theatre or the entertainment industry.

Kimmy Morrison

Kimmy graduated with a degree in History with an Asian Studies minor. Kimmy was accepted into the Peace Corps and plans to serve in the Ukraine.

Kaitlyn Morse

Kaitlyn graduated with a degree in Exercise Science and plans to attend graduate school to become a physician assistant.

Jenna Nelson

Jenna graduated with a degree in Political Science. She is also interested in sociology and hopes to attend graduate school.

Alexi Polcawich

Alexis graduated with a degree in Biochemistry and plans to attend veterinary school.

Valori Vaught

Valori received her degree in Educational Studies with a minor in Sociology.

Hannah Waldman

Hannah graduated with a double major in Psychology and Neuroscience. She is currently living in the Chicago area and is enrolled in a Clinical Psychology Doctorate (PsyD) program as Adler University in the city.
Alexander Andrzejewski ’21

Alex is currently a senior from Hamburg, New York. He has a passion for people, and politics and served as the 2019-2020 Hiram College Senate president. Alex only served one year as a Garfield Center for Public Leadership Scholar.

Brandon Eddinger

Brandon graduated with a degree in management with a focus on marketing and a minor in Entrepreneurship. He plans to attend graduate school for a master’s in Business Administration.

Shannon Enoch

Shannon graduated with a degree in Communications and a Creative Writing minor. Shannon plans to attend graduate school and one day get her J.D.

Lindsey Harris

Lindsey graduated with a major in Political Science and a minor in Spanish. She plans to attend graduate school.

Megan Kern

Megan graduated with a double major in Political Science and Theatre Arts. She plans to attend law school and fine future employment as an entertainment law attorney.

Colton Kinderknecht

Colton graduated with a degree in Chemistry. He plans to attend medical school for a six year Ph.D. MD program.

Lloyd Latsch

Lloyd graduated with a degree in Applied Computer Science. He served as the president of the Hiram Computer Science club.

Danni Lynn McDonald

Danni Lynn graduated with a degree in Creative Writing and a minor in music. She hopes to become a published author one day. Danni Lynn is currently working in Poland and plans to travel throughout Europe for the next six months.

Irveen Singh

Irveen graduated with a degree in Biology on the pre-dental track. Her goal is to become a dentist, running her own practice.

Jared Wright

Jared graduated with a degree in Management. He was hired to work with a CPA firm in Columbus, Ohio.

Taylor Yamamoto

Taylor graduated with a major in Biomedical Humanities. She will be attending NEOMED with the aim of working in emergency medicine.

Emily Yeckley

Emily graduated with a degree in neuroscience. Her passion is science and animals and plans to attend veterinary school.
Rameen Aghbar

Rameen graduated with a degree in Political Science and Economics. He is from Afghanistan. Rameen is interested in political and social debates. Before coming to Hiram College he worked as a volunteer at a TV network in Kabul as an English to Persian translator and was a member and advisor to the Peace and Sports Foundation. At Hiram College, Rameen was a member of the Intercultural Forum, the Political Science Club and also served as a James A. Garfield Presidency Scholar.

Hallie Chavez

Hallie graduated with a double major in Biochemistry and Neuroscience, with a writing minor. She is from Parma, Ohio. She made the Dean’s List and was a member of the Alpha Society. At Hiram, she was also a Garfield Presidency Scholar, an Eclectic Honors Scholar and worked in the Biochemistry lab. She is a lifeguard during the summer.

Jory Gomes

Jory graduated with a degree in Biomedical Humanities. He wasCaptain of the Men’s Varsity Swimming & Dive Team–as well as a writing assistant for the Writing Center. He made the Dean’s List and was a member of the Honors Eclectic Scholars. In addition to his activities on campus, Jory was becoming a certified Community Health Worker with the hopes of improving the access to health care for those in the Portage county area. On top of this, for the summer of 2016, Jory was a National Institute on Drug Abuse intern doing public health research at the Georgia State University Tobacco Center of Regulatory Science. Jory wants to go into public health policy with the intention of studying the state, national, and global politics surrounding public health matters.

Emily Hruska

Emily Hruska graduated with a double major in chemistry and music. Born in Boardman, Ohio, Emily graduated from Boardman High School in 2014. Along with her studies, she was involved with various activities on campus and held several leadership positions in the Honors Eclectic Scholars, Student Senate, Chemistry Club, Rock Climbing Club, Funding You Board, SOAC, and Chamber Orchestra. She was a member of the Alpha Society and worked as an RA, WA, and TA. Emily served as a transfer student and an organic chemistry TA as well as hosting the honors floor as the RA. Emily will be pursuing her PhD in a chemical field.

Devon Jones

Devon Jones graduated with a degree in Political Science and Religious Studies with an Environmental Studies minor. Devon graduated from Horizon Science Academy in Dayton Ohio in 2014. Devon Jones was involved in various extra circular activities on the Hiram College campus being; President of Cultures Connected Religious Studies Club; Radio Station Manger; Member of the Garfield Center for the Study of the American Presidency; Garfield Center for Public Leadership; and Peer Mentoring; Comedian; Photography and Videography. Devon Jones want to pursue a career in foreign service focused with Global Environmental Policy.

Julie Lenoir

Julie graduated with a major in Nursing and minor in Biomedical Humanities. Julie is from Mars, Pennsylvania, where she graduated as Secretary of her class at Mars Area High School. Julie was a member of the Honors Eclectic Scholars at Hiram. She also was an active member of HPAC (Health Professions Affinity Community), the NET, Ultimate Frisbee Club and Nerf Club. She plans on traveling abroad before she graduates. After graduation, Julie plans to take her state boards and become a registered nurse. She later plans to attend graduate school to become a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.

Abeera Mehmood

Abeera is an international student from Pakistan. She majored in Biomedical Humanities with minors in Environmental Studies and Biochemistry. One of her major interests is policy making on current health issues. She is part of the World Life Organization in Pakistan as well as many other student-run welfare groups. Abeera plans on going to medical school.

Nathan Metze

Nathan graduated with a degree in Computer Science and Political Science. He graduated from Canfield High School in Canfield, Ohio. He was a member of the Alpha Society and was on the Dean’s List. Nathan was an employee at the Dray Help Desk and a member of the Computer Science Club. Nathan plans to either attend graduate school or pursue a career using both Computer Science and Political Science.

Christian O’Neil

Christian graduated with a major in biochemistry and a minor in physics. From Boardman, Ohio, Christian graduated from Boardman High School in 2014. At Hiram, Christian playedthe violin with the Hiram Chamber Orchestra. He was also the vice president of the Chemistry Club and the president of the Trading Card Club. Christian was a teaching assistant for organic chemistry lab and an Honors Scholar. He plans on furthering his education after Hiram by attending graduate school for chemistry.

Holly Wilkins

Holly Wilkens graduated with a double major in Biomedical Humanities and Music. She graduated from Lutheran High School West in Rocky River, Ohio back in 2014. Her main musical instrument is the clarinet, but she can also play the trombone. On campus Holly was Captain of Hiram’s Women’s Rugby Club, a Student Ambassador, member of Terrier Activities Board, the Net, Wind Ensemble, and worked with the Sports Medicine Aid. She loves traveling and studied abroad with Hiram in Germany in Fall 2016. After graduation, she plans on more traveling and attending medical school to work in pediatrics.

Keegan Williams

Keegan graduated with a double major in Political Science and Philosophy. His greatest interest has always been international relations. Keegan plans to apply to law school wants to work in international law, possibly at the United Nations.

Zachary Yedlicka

Zach graduated with an Accounting and Finance major and a minor in Political Science. He is interested in public policy and politics. He knows that as a future accountant, working in auditing and taxation, he will need to update and adjust for changes in tax rates, deductions, and governmental policies.
Natalie Bendel

Natalie graduated with a double major in Political Science and Economics. She graduated from Wadsworth Senior High School in 2013. She worked as a lifeguard at the Hiram College Alumni Memorial Pool, and as a student worker in the Hiram College Business Office. After graduation, she intends to study international trade law.

Heather Brant

Heather graduated with a double major in Political Science and Philosophy. She served as a Garfield Scholar for two years.

John Enasko

John Enasko graduated with a double major in Biomedical Humanities and Spanish. Born in Warren, Ohio, John graduated from Howland High School in 2013. John plans to utilize his degrees in his journey after graduation into the medical field. Along with his studies, he was involved various activities on campus involving the Honors Eclectic Scholars, Student Senate, Chemistry Club and Student Ambassadors.

Emily Kelly

Emily Kelly graduated with a degree in Biomedical Humanities. She graduated from North Royalton High School in 2013. Emily was both an Eclectic Scholar and a Garfield Scholar. She was also a member of the Hiram College Swim Team, the Stone Soup Cooperative and the Delta Chi Lambdas. Following her time at Hiram College, Emily plans to attend medical school in hopes of becoming a physician of an undecided specialty.

Martin Klinger

Martin majored in Political Science with a minor in History. He is a graduate of Aurora High School ’13, where he played varsity Hockey and volunteered at his local library. At Hiram College, he has been on the Dean’s List multiple times. He has served on the Hiram College Student Senate for two years representing East Hall and then the Social Sciences Department. After graduation, he intends to attend graduate school at American University.

Emily Lewis

Emily graduated with a major Political Science and a minor in Public Leadership. She graduated from McDowell High School in Erie, Pennsylvania in 2013. She was an active member in the community and has worked on multiple political campaigns. On campus she was involved in numerous activities, including Ethics Bowl (President), Dance Team (Treasurer and Program Planner) and Student Ambassadors. Emily was Hiram’s 2014-2015 Student Senate President. After graduation, she plans to attend law school to study Criminal Law and become a politician.

Bailey Norton

Bailey was a Nursing major with a minor in Biomedical Humanities. She aspires to become a traveling nurse and one day participate in international health programs. On campus, she was a defender on the Women’s Soccer team, the Advisory Board Representative for the Eclectic Scholars Program, the Women’s Soccer representative for SAAC, a member of the Hiram Student Nurses Association and a three-year member of the Garfield Presidency Scholars. She made the Dean’s List multiple times and is a member of the Alpha Society. Outside of Hiram, Bailey is a counselor, rock climbing instructor and part of the waterfall staff at a YMCA camp called Camp Fitch.

Gloria Ogundare

Gloria Ogundare from Nigeria. She was a Political Science major and an Asian Studies Minor. Gloria hopes to pursue a master’s degree in international business and a Ph.D. in gender studies in the future. She plans on going back to Nigeria and hopes to work with the ministry of foreign affairs and to one day become the Nigerian ambassador to South Korea.

Bishop Sanders

Charles Sanders majored in Political Science and History. He hopes to use the two degrees together in the political field with hopes of becoming a politician. He enjoys doing karate and has been in the martial arts for 13 years, earning a third degree black belt. He is an Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America and is actively involved in his community through the local farmer’s market, the community gardens and the coalition of business that meets every month to plan activities for the town. He was the first freshman to be accepted into the Garfield Center for Public Leadership.

Cole Soldo

Cole majored in Environmental Studies and minored in Political Science. His goal is to combine the two in order to make a positive difference regarding the global environmental health of the planet. He was a Garfield Presidency scholar and an Eclectic Honors Scholar. He held offices in several clubs, including the Sustainability Club where he was president. In his spare time, he loves music and has played the trombone since sixth grade. He also enjoys piano and guitar. He loves to travel and has photographed places such as the Galapagos Islands, Iceland, Scotland and many National Parks in the U.S. He is from Cincinnati and an avid fan of the Reds and Bengals.

Isabella Williams

Isabella graduated double major in Biomedical Humanities and Spanish and an International Studies minor. She is from Ellwood City, Pennsylvania. In addition to being a Garfield Scholar, Isabella was a Resident Assistant, Admission Navigator, Orientation Leader and a general student worker in the Admission Office.
Emily Duhn

Emily graduated with a major in Early Childhood Education. She plans on attending graduate school for her Master’s in Special Education.

Alex Martin

Alex graduated with a degree in Political Science. He was planning on moving to France to become a tour guide and study the language.

Isaac Tom Monah

Tom double majored in Political Science and Philosophy and plans to attend law school. He is originally from Liberia, in West Africa.

Ann Riddle

Ann graduated with a degree in Political Science and will attend Villanova. Ann served as a Garfield Public Leadership scholar for three years.

Ryogo Suzuki

Ryogo graduated with a major in Physics and a Political Science and International Studies minor. He will attend Washington University for a masters program in Engineering.

Mary Swallow

Mary graduated with a major in Integrated Language Arts Education. Since graduating, she has officially moved to Columbus, Ohio. Mary is in her first few weeks of teaching English to freshmen and seniors at Buckeye Valley High School. So far, she loves it! She lives in a cute town north of Columbus called Delaware.

Jacob Vaughan

Jacob graduated with a major in Integrated Language Arts and a minor in Mathematics. Jacob left in June, 2016 to serve as a Peace Corps Volunteer in China where he will teach English at the university level.

Chimi Wangchuk

Chimi graduated with a double major in Political Science and Mathematics. He has returned to his home country, Bhutan, where he will teach mathematics.

Victoria Angelo

Victoria will start a graduate-entry masters program in nursing at Case Western University. When she graduates from Hiram her degree will be in Biomedical Humanities.
Renee Bellis

Renee graduated with a major in Political Science with a Math and Economics minor. Renee was involved with the Hiram Theatre Department as an actor and back stage. She was the treasurer of the American Sign Language Club.

Evan Bender

Evan graduated with a major in Political Science and minors in Public Leadership and Entrepreneurship. Evan was a member of the community council. Evan will be attending law school.

Patricia Bohls

Patricia Bohls graduated from Hiram College in 2015 with a double major in Neuroscience and Environmental Studies and a minor in Biology. While at Hiram she was a member of the women’s cross-country team and captain her senior year and was an active member of the Stone Soup Vegetarian Cooperative and the General Manager her senior year. She has been part of the Garfield Scholars since her sophomore year. Patricia has also been active in helping out other students by being a Teaching Assistant, Writing Assistant, working in the Writing House, and tutoring for Biology. She has been accepted in U.C. Davis Entomology program for a Ph.D. and will be starting that in the fall of 2015. At Davis she will be studying honeybees. Eventually she would like to become a professor.
• Read Patricia’s paper,What should U.S. Foreign Policy be towards Cuba.

Jonathan Hall

Jon Hall graduated from Hiram College in 2015 with a B.A. in Accounting and Financial Management with a Minor in Political Science. He is working this summer as a Financial Analysts intern for Cummins Inc. in Minnesota. Next year he plans to attend Case Western Reserve to obtain a Master’s in Accountancy.

Su Hnin Latt

Su graduated with a major in Physics. She is originally from Yangon, Myanmar. At Hiram, she was a peer tutor, a Physics Lab teaching assistant, and a student researcher. Su was an active member of the Intercultural Forum, a former member of the Women’s Choir and African Ensemble. She wants to become an engineer, international businessperson, and founder of a NGO, which will provide free education.

Marcus Lawniczak

Marcus graduated with a major in Political Science with an interest in Public Policy. He plans on pursuing a career in law or academics, while always being involved in public leadership.

Megan McNulty

Megan is 22 years old and just graduated from Hiram College. She is looking for a job for the next couple of years, graduate school will be in her future. Currently, she is looking to find her place in the world and to pay off some of her school loans. She will definitely be travelling, as it is her passion, with next trips to Peru or Europe. She enjoys reading, hiking, and spending time with her family and friends.

Robert Partridge

Robert graduated with degrees in Political Science and Management. He was the quarterback for the Hiram football team. His interests include music, travelling, and writing. Robert hopes to attend law school and work in public administration.

Hannah Shrader

Hannah graduated in 2015 with a major in Nursing and a minor in Biomedical Humanities. While ate Hiram, she was accepted in the Alpha Society for all four years of her undergrad. She was also inducted into the National Nursing Honor Society, Sigma Theta Tau International. After passing her state boards, Hannah will be working as a registered nurse at Wooster Community Hospital on the Med Surge Units. She plans to continue her education to obtain a DNP or Ph.D. after gaining some work experience.

Robin Singleton

Robin graduated with a double major in Biology and History. She was Resident Assistant and played the flute in the marching band. She also worked in the Writing Center as a writing assistant and tutor. Robin plans to take a year off before attending graduate school.
• Read Robin’s paper, The Hunt for Panamanian Literature.

Majdal Sobeh

Majdal graduated with a double major in communication and management. She is a Palestinian who graduated high school from Morocco. She was a student manager at the Welcome Center desk, vice president of the communication honor society, Lambda Pi Eta, and secretary of the Intercultural Forum. Her interests include writing and music.
• Read Majdal’s paper, Political Ideology and Globalization: A Look at Panama.
• Read Majdal’s paper, Constructing Inequality in Mexico City.

Abigail Staysa

Abby graduated summa cum laude with a double major in Political Science and Philosophy. She was a member of the Alpha Society. Aside from participating in the Garfield Center, Abby was a Residential Assistant and a member of the Women’s Cross Country team. After interning in Washington D.C. in the fall of 2015, Abby plans to pursue graduate studies in Political Science.
• Read Abby’s paper, Cuba-U.S. Policy.

Nicole Pueyo Svoboda

Niki graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She will be returning to California to get her license and become an RN. She wants to work in many areas in a hospital to get as much experience as possible, then return to school for a Ph.D.
Shova Alemagar

Shova Alemagar graduated with a double major in Environmental Studies and Sociology. She is from Kathmandu, Nepal. Shova was a Teaching Assistant for a freshman colloquium, International Peer Assistant, a member of Co-op Stone Soup and Intercultural Forum Club. She hopes to work closely with communities to tackle environmental and social problems.

Laila Almassri

Laila Almassri graduated Hiram College in 2014 with a major in Biomedical Humanities, a minor in Art, departmental honors, and summa cum laude. Having lived in the Ukraine and the United Arab Emirates, she speaks Russian, Arabic, and English fluently. While at Hiram, Laila was a varsity member of the women’s cross-country team for four years and team captain for three years. She was also active in the first-year writing program as a writing assistant for two years. During her summers, Laila attained research internships at NEOMED and at the Harvard Stem Cell Institute. Her senior year, she was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. Laila will be spending her gap year as a City Year Cleveland corps member, after which she plans on attending medical school, with the goal of eventually working with Doctors Without Borders.
• Read Laila’s paper, Oil for Doctors.

Rebecca Dyer

Becca Dyer graduated with a double major in History and Political Science. In 2010 she graduated salutatorian from McKinley Senior High School in Canton, Ohio. She was a Garfield Scholar and a member of the Ray C. Bliss Institute for Applied Politics. She was a Hiram Service Leader, a tutor, and a student worker in the Financial Aid Office. She has interned for the Ohio House of Representatives, and hopes to make a career in politics and law.
• Read Becca’s paper, The Future of US-Cuban Relations.

Kaitlyn Hale

Kaitlyn Hale graduated with a major in Management and a double minor in Art and Entrepreneurship. Kaitlyn has a passion for travel, and participated in two study abroad trips, the first to Greece and Turkey and the second to Italy. She has completed several internships during her time at Hiram, including one with a local art gallery and another with an event planning company.

Molly Jukes

Molly Jukes is a senior sociology major minoring in history. She graduated from Mentor High School in 2011. She has made the Dean’s list multiple times. Other than participating in the Garfield Scholars program, she is a member of the Circle K International service club, Intercultural Forum and the Stone Soup Cooperative.

Monica Lucas

Monica is a senior political science major with a minor in philosophy. In the past she has had the fortune to work as an intern at the U.S. Department of State, and as a Research Assistant at the Property and Environment Research Center. She has been involved on campus with Student Senate for the past three years, and currently works as a volunteer Senior Campus Coordinator with the international organization Students For Liberty. She is passionate about classical liberal ideas, environmental and education policy, Cuban social and political institutions, and aesthetics and politics. Her favorite aspect of the Garfield Center is meeting and learning about diverse people.
• Read Monica’s paper, A Prescription for U.S. Policy toward Cuba.

Ronda Riggins

Ronda Riggins graduated with a major in Sociology and minor in English. Prior to transferring to Hiram, she attended the University of Arkansas Community College at Hope, where she was involved as a literacy aid for the America Reads program and peer tutor. At Hiram, Ronda served as the Student Coordinator to the Impact Peer Mentoring Program, Teaching and Writing Assistant, Commuter Student Senator, Welcome Center employee, and a board member of the Kennedy Center Programming Board. Ronda is considering studying law or attending graduate school. Her ultimate academic goal is to earn a PhD. in Rural Sociology.

Elle Rochford

Elle Rochford graduated with a major in Art and a double minor in Sociology and Art History. She is passionate about art, politics, social inequality, running and baking. Elle values her service work and often takes time out of her schedule to volunteer. She participated in two alternative spring breaks and the Service Leaders Program. Elle is currently working on a Masters in Sociology at Purdue University. She has also taken up rockclimbing and bouldering.

Tyler Thomas

Tyler Thomas graduated with a double major in Political Science and English and a minor in philosophy. He plans on pursuing graduate studies in Political Science.

Courtney Wade

Courtney Wade ’14 graduated summa cum laude with a Communication major and minors in Management, Public Leadership, and Educational Studies. She has started her career at AKHIA, which is a public relations firm based in Hudson, Ohio. While at Hiram, Courtney was a Garfield Scholar, Student Ambassador, President of Delta Chi Lambda (Greek social club), President of Lambda Pi Eta (Communication honor society), and worked a the Hiram College Admission Office and College Relations.
• Read Courtney’s papers, What should U.S. policy be towards Cuba? and The Cost of Corruption in Panama.

Shane Young

Shane Young graduated with a major in Political Science and minors in History and Public Leadership. While at Hiram, Shane served as President of the Student Senate. He will attend Kent State University to obtain a Masters degree in Higher Education and Student Personnel.
• Read Shane’s paper, The American Grudge: Economic Nonsense and Panamanian Higher Education: Globalization Abroad.
Adam Miller

Adam Miller graduated in 2013 as a Chemistry major. He graduated as the valedictorian of his class at Cardinal High School in Middlefield, Ohio in 2009. Adam worked as a student office assistant in the president’s office and as a teaching assistant. He was involved with the chemistry club and religious programs on campus. His interests include music, nutrition, and health. In the future, he aspires to work in the healthcare field, possibly overseas.
• Read Adam’s paper, Improving Relations between the United States and Cuba Adam Miller.

Leland Cancilla

Leland Cancilla graduated in 2013 with a major in Biomedical Humanities. His leadership experiences includes being the leader of the Westlake Area Youth Group, umpire, and camp counselor. He hopes to attend medical school and become an orthopedic surgeon working with the underprivileged.

Christopher Fisher

Christopher Fisher graduated Hiram College in the spring of 2013. He majored in Communication with minors in Political Science and Public Leadership. He grew up in California and graduated high school in 2001. Chris is married and has four children, three boys and a girl, who was born in June of 2012. He is active duty military with over ten years service in the Coast Guard. Previous duty stations include locations in New Jersey, California, Virginia, Alabama, and Ohio. Chris will attend COS in New London, Connecticut in the fall of 2013 and then continue with his military career.

Robert Glowacki

Robert Glowacki graduated in May, 2013 as a Biochemistry major and a Biomedical Humanities minor. He has accepted a fellowship to attend the University of Michigan where he will be pursuing a Ph.D. in Pathology/Microbiology & Immunology. While at Hiram he volunteered his time at Robinson Memorial Hospital in Ravenna, Ohio and on Habitat for Humanity trips and weekend builds. In addition, he served as a Student Senator for two years and was treasurer of Chemistry Club, AIBS, and MEDICUS. He aspires to work in Washington D.C. as a consultant or lobbyist prior to achieving his ultimate goal of being a professor. Also, Robert has been a lab-teaching assistant for various classes since the second semester of his Freshman year. Lastly, he is a member of Phi Beta Kappa, Alpha Society, a McNair Scholar, Student Ambassador, and has attained Dean’s List on numerous occasions.

Gurneet Raina

Gurneet Raina graduated in 2013 with a major in Biomedical Humanities and a minor in Political Science. During high school, she was speech and debate president for two years. At Hiram, she was a member of MEDICUS, Intercultural Forum, and the Finance Committee. Her long-term goal is to work on global medicine as a doctor.
• Read Gurneet’s paper, Finding the Other Piece of the Puzzle.

Hin Yan Wong

Hin Yan (Susanna) Wong graduated with honors in 2013 with a major in Psychology. She is an international student from Hong Kong who spent most of her life living in sunny Bangkok. She worked as an International Peer Assistant, Welcome Center staff and was a Sunday school volunteer. She was also the secretary of student senate, a member/officer of the Psychology Club, Intercultural Forum and the Net. She is currently working in the mental health field and plans to apply to a Clinical or Counseling program and would like to be a counselor.
• Read Hin Yan’s paper, What should US policy be towards Cuba? Formalizing US-Cuba Relations in Drug Trafficking.

Megan Orosz

Megan graduated in 2013 with a major in Nursing and minor in Biomedical Humanities. She was the Co-Captain of the Women’s Cross Country Team since her sophomore year, and was seeking her fourth Varsity Letter. She volunteered every year with Habitat for Humanity and served on Hiram’s Habitat for Humanity Planning Committee. Megan continued on as the President of her Greek Social Club, Delta Chi Lambda, for a second year, while also leading as an Officer for the Terrier Action for Smart Choices Force (TASC Force) and Ski and Snowboard Club. Also on campus, Megan worked as a Peer Tutor, Admission Tour Guide, Student Center Welcome Staff and Orientation Leader. Megan participated in a study abroad service trip in the Dominican Republic. Her love for Latin America and the island of Hispaniola have rekindled her interest in Spanish and service work in developing areas. Her dream now is for a future that will incorporate cultural exchange, healthcare, education and social justice.
• Read Megan’s paper, What Should U.S. Policy be Towards Cuba?.

Osuman Sadat

Anwar Sadat Osuman graduated in 2013 with a major in Business Management. He is an international student from Ghana. He hopes to pursue a career in International Law and be a Justice on the Supreme Court of Ghana. He enjoys political debates and soccer.
• Read Anwar’s paper, Future U.S. Foreign Policy Towards Cuba.

Thomas Moran

Tom Moran graduated in 2013 with a major in Political Science and a History minor. Tom graduated from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law and passed the July 2017 bar exam. He is at the firm of Friedman & Nemecek, which is primarily a criminal defense firm. He is tasked with expanding the firm’s Civil litigation department, most notably cases involving data breaches and cybersecurity.
• Read Tom’s paper, What Should U.S. Foreign Policy be Towards Cuba?.

Thube Hlongwane

Thube Hlongwane graduated in 2013 with a double major in Sociology and Religious Studies. She is from Bulawayo, Zimbabwe but went to high school in an international college in Ghana. She was an IMPACT peer mentor, Weekend College Resident Assistant, on the community council, and Treasurer of the Sociology Club. She was a Teaching Assistant for Architecture and Politics. Thube was on the Dean’s list since her Sophomore year and in the Alpha Society. She plans on doing her masters in International Law or Social Work.

Zachary Crotts

Zach Crotts graduated in 2013 with a major in Political Science. He graduated from Strongsville High School, where he created and led a student-based movement to pass a funding levy. At Hiram he was the president and vice president of numerous student organizations and worked in the Integrated Learning office as a Moodle Course Developer. His future plans include a graduate degree specializing in International Relations and starting a family.
• Read Zach’s paper HERE.

Hannah Petcovic

Hannah Petcovic graduated with a major in Biomedical Humanities and a minor in Spanish at Hiram College. She was a Garfield Center Student Scholar for three years. Hannah was the recipient of the DiSalvo Research Assistantship, and worked as an intern at Hiram College’s microbiology lab. She later presented research at the International Crown Gall Conference. Among the various student, music, and religious organizations with which Hannah has participated, she is the founder of the Biomedical Humanities Student Association. Outside of campus, Hannah is dedicated to service projects. She has worked with Habitat for Humanity and volunteers with hospice patients. She was a Hiram College Leader, and worked with adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder at the Hiram Farm Living and Learning Community. In addition, she is a childhood cancer survivor, and participated in Relay for Life every year. Hannah credits study abroad as her most influential experience at Hiram. She traveled to China to study the culture, and El Salvador to study Spanish and volunteer in a free clinic. She valued her time in Cuba with the Garfield Center as an opportunity to study policy. Academically, Hannah has been accepted to the Alpha Society and Dean’s list for four years, and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa Society of Hiram College. Her goal is to be accepted into Phi Beta Kappa Society. She was voted the 2012 Homecoming Queen. After Hiram, Hannah hopes to join the AmeriCorps for a year, and later pursue further education in healthcare.
• Read Hannah’s paper, El Bloqueo.

Bryan Nemire

Bryan Nemire graduated from Hiram with a double major in biology and environmental studies. He is going to enter the agricultural industry after graduation, working internationally and domestically and then possibly attaining a graduate degree in agriculture and food systems. As a Garfield Scholar for three years, he traveled to Cuba and gained another perspective on international agriculture which he claims will help add to the knowledge on agriculture and the political systems surrounding the food systems at the world level.
• Read Bryan’s paper, Cuba-United States Policy: An agricultural methodology.

Saqiba Najam

Born in Quetta and raised in Islamabad, Pakistan, Saqiba is an artist by heart, painting, poetry, and acting is in her blood. She was the Student Senate Vice President of Finance and Executive Director of Student Ambassadors at Hiram College. She not only believed in taking the multidisciplinary approach in enriching her college experience but also believed in giving back to shape the Hiram community. As a Garfield Scholar she sharpened her leadership skills and wants to be an agent of change on a global scale.
• Read Saqiba’s paper, US and Cuba: The Embargo Should Remain.

Alex Van Meter

Alex Van Meter is a Senior at Hiram College. His career goal is to be a professional negotiator. He would like to work in government in the State Department or Labor.
Michael Carey

Michael Carey graduated with a major in Economics and minors in Mathematics and Management. He graduated at the top of his class from Big Lake High School in Minnesota. In addition to being a Garfield Scholar, Michael was also a member of MENSA, an academic tutor for economics and mathematics courses, and a student supervisor at the Hiram College dining hall. Michael will be attending graduate school after securing a few years of experience in the job force.

Caroline Christoff

Joseph Dowling

Joseph Dowling graduated with a major in Political Science and a minor in Communication. He grew up and continues to live in Hudson, Ohio, graduating from Hudson High School in 2008. His interests include European integration, political philosophy, international affairs, global economic development, and U.S. domestic policy. After graduating from Hiram, he plans to attend graduate school to pursue a program in international relations or public policy.

Richard Ivans

Richard Ivans will be attending Cleveland Marshall College of Law at Cleveland State University this fall (2012). He plans to focus on land use law, which furthers his interest in agriculture. In addition, he continues to volunteer as a 4-H advisor and Geauga Junior Fair Coordinator. In the future, he hopes to work in Cleveland and run a small vegetable and produce stand in Geauga County. He credits the Garfield Center for much of his interest in public policy and the law and knows he will use this knowledge in his future career.

Rodney Jacobs

Rodney Jacobs graduated with a major in Political Science and Philosophy and a minor in Communication and Public Leadership. He served as the President of the Hiram College student body, Speech and Debate team, and Greek Council. He was a political columnist for the Hiram College newspaper, a member of the Hiram Judiciary Community Council, member of the football and track teams, Student Ambassador, a North Coast Athletic Conference Representative and Vencyl- Carr teaching assistant. At Hiram Rodney was the recipient of numerous awards. Some include the 2011 Hal Riehel award for Splendiferous Service, the 2010 Martin Luther King leadership award, and the 2010 Deans award for excellence in academics and leadership. Rodney interned for the Portage County Court, the Pinellas County 6th Judicial Circuit Public Defender’s office, and the Office of the Attorney General of New York Harlem Regional office. Following graduation, Rodney plans to enter a dual degree program where he will earn both a Law and Masters Degree. He is attending the University of Dayton School of Law.

Kritsinee Khowcharoen

Kritsinee Khowcharoen majored in Accounting & Financial Management & Economics. She is from Thailand. She was a member of the Hiram College Women’s Golf Team and a Student Senate Vice President of Finance. She was V.P. of the Hiram College Endowment Investment Club for the 2010-2011 academic year. Kritsinee plans to attend graduate school for a Master of Accountancy degree after graduating from Hiram.

Ryan Hulec

Ryan Hulec graduated in May, 2012 with a degree in Political Science. His career ambitions include working for both NATO and reforming Immigration policies. The environment he was raised formed his interest in international relations. His father served in the U.S. Air Force and met his mother in Germany. His father passed away during the first Gulf War and his Mom, a German citizen, raised him in the States. He has volunteered at the Cleveland Sight Center. Ryan is pursuing a masters degree in International Relationships at Cleveland State University.

Jennifer Long

Jennifer Long graduated from Hiram College in 2012 with a major in Mathematics. She was involved in Model United Nations for three years. She was treasurer her junior year and treasurer and president her senior year. She was elected Vice President of the National Honors Society, a varsity tennis player and bowler. At Hiram she was a member of the Student Environment Action Coalition and the English Society. She plans to teach high school mathematics.

Kyle Peters

Kyle Peters graduated from Hiram with a degree in History. He was a resident assistant and a member of the Rugby Football Club and Classics Club. He is working as an Industry Analyst for the Freedonia Group, Inc. in Cleveland.

Anand Sharma

Anand Sharma graduated from Hiram College in 2012 with a major in Accounting & Economics. He was a high school student leader participating in track and field, yearbook and drama club. In the summer of 2009 he interned with CPA Arun Khurana consulting company in New Jersey. He also worked with the Zweig Group of JP Morgan Securities. His long-term goal is to work for an international organization like the UN, IMF or World Bank.

Rebecca Szanto

Rebecca Szanto graduated from Hiram with a major in Psychology and a minor in writing. After graduation she plans to work as a private applied behavior analysis tutor for children with autism. She will also be employed at a camp that works with children with disabilities. In the fall of 2013 she plans to attend graduate school to pursue a masters or doctorate in Counseling Psychology.

Corey Trusso

Corey Trusso graduated from Hiram College with a major in Political Science and minors in Ethics, Entrepreneurship and Philosophy. He plans to work at the Ohio State House and get an Executive MPA, Masters in Public Administration. He will start graduate school in the Fall of 2012.

Yesuel Lee

Yesuel “Lucy” Lee majored in History & Political Science. She was a tutor in high school and also worked as a translator for a non-governmental organization. After graduation she hopes to work in a non-governmental agency or go to graduate school. Yesuel hopes to have a career as an ambassador or a diplomat in her home country, The Republic of Korea.
Sarah Ahmed

Sarah Ahmed graduated in 2011 with a major in Political Science. She is currently pursuing a Master of Arts degree in International Studies with a focus in South Asia Studies at the University of Washington. Her academic interests include state and society, military/security policy, democracy & governance and nuclear diplomacy in South Asia, specifically in Pakistan.

Lindsay Kuhn

Lindsay Kuhn graduated in 2011. She also graduated from Canfield High School in Canfield, Ohio. Kuhn was involved in campus life as a member of the cross-country team, theater guild, choir, and as a former teaching assistant and student senator. She interned at Ohio Representative Vernon Syke’s office through the University of Akron’s Bliss Institute. Kuhn is currently working as an Assistant Program Manager in the International Division at the International City/County Management Association in Washington D.C.

Nana Yaw

Nana Yaw graduated in 2011.

Wenhao Li

Wenhao graduated in 2011 and will be pursuing a master degree in accounting at the University of Notre Dame in the fall of 2011. This past summer he completed an internship at PricewaterhouseCoopers in Los Angeles.

Bristena Marinescu

Bristena Marinescu graduated in 2011 with a degree in Financial Accounting and a minor in Computer Science. She is originally from Arad, Romania and speaks Romanian, German, and English. Throughout her college career Bristena was involved in numerous activities and organizations including: Model United Nations, resident assistant, Computer Center HelpDesk, Webmaster for the Computer Science departmental website, Cross Country runner, etc. Bristena is also a scholar of the Institute of Management Accountants Cleveland East Chapter.

Diana Salman

Diana graduated in 2011.

Sarah Taddeo

Sarah graduated in 2011 with majors in Neuroscience and Political Science; she hopes to become involved in international relations. On a more domestic level, she is very passionate about food policy, and hopes to make some positive changes in conventional food industry. After a career in political science, instead of retiring she would like to do research on schizophrenia and become a professor at a small, liberal arts college like Hiram.

Philip Williams

Philip Williams graduated with a degree in Mathematics. He is interested in the development of public policy. He dedicated a year of his life to serving with Americorps. With his physics background, he has an interest in energy policy and how it relates to both domestic and foreign affairs. He is looking forward to pursuing a career that promotes the development of new alternative energy sources.
Dakota Bidgood

Dakota Bidgood graduated from Hiram College in May 2010 with a B.A. in Political Science and a minor in Public Leadership. Dakota’s education started at Newbury High School, where he was a member of the National Honor Society, the Geauga county D.A.R.E. program and a participant of Big Brothers of America. Dakota then attended Lakeland Community College were he began his interest in political science, public policy and American domestic politics. He was an active member and lead officer in Model UN and Lakeland College Democrats. Dakota spent almost a full year interning for Bill O’Neill for Congress before coming to Hiram College. At Hiram, he was an active member of Student Senate, Speech and Debate Team, and had a job as a residential assistant. After graduating from Hiram, Dakota was accepted into George Washington University, where he plans to pursue a master’s degree in Political Management, focusing on policy analysis and political communications. He hopes to one day have a job as a professional staffer for elected officials, advising on policy issues and communication strategy. He can be reached via email at DakotaBidgood@gmail.com

Elizabeth Bell

Elizabeth Bell graduated with double majors in Accounting and Economics. She plans on attending graduate school next fall to pursue a Masters of Accountancy. After that her intention is to acquire her CPA license. She recently participated in a study abroad trip to Guatemala in the spring of 2009, where she studied the marginalized voices of Latin America. She was a resident assistant and also a member of F.I.S.H. (Free Information on Student Health). Elizabeth has worked for the Dean of Student’s Office each summer planning and implementing new student Institute Week and orientation. Her main passion is traveling and experiencing different cultures. Her hope is to pursue a career that combines financial analysis of the markets as well as accountancy.

Sean Callahan

Sean Callahan graduated with a degree in Political Science and was the sports editor for the Advance. He participated in Hiram study abroad trips to China and Tanzania, and spent a semester studying at Hiram’s sister school, John Cabot University in Rome, Italy. He interned for Senator Sherrod Brown in the summer of 2009 and is planning on continuing his education in law or business after graduation in the spring.

Nadrienna Damaris

Nadrienna Damaris graduated with double majors in Early Childhood Education and Political Science at Hiram College. She graduated from Renaissance High School in Detroit, MI with honors. Damaris was very active on campus, participating in track and field, drill team, the Net, AASU, H.O.L.A., Fiat Lux, Model UN and Gospel Choir. Damaris was also Captain of the Hiram College Dance Team, Vice President of the French Club and a member of Community Council. Damaris worked in various capacities around the campus, mainly as the Welcome Center greeter in the Kennedy Center, and as a career assistant in the Career Center. Damaris has been the recipient of both academic and social achievement awards, including 2008 Student Leader of the Year for Diversity, Kappa Delta Pi, ODK National Leadership, and Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities & Colleges. What Damaris loves most about Hiram College is how Hiram fosters diverse learning, through centers such as the Garfield Center and the study abroad program which took her to China.

Natasha Glodek

Natasha Glodek graduated with a degree in Accounting & Financial Management. She plans to pursue an MBA or Master’s of Accountancy degree and sit for the CPA exam. Natasha was an active member on campus, as she was Treasurer of the Accounting, Business, and Economics club, a member of the Student Athlete Advisory Committee representing the women’s golf team, a member of Hiram College’s Alpha Society, and Vice President of the Endowment Investment Club. She also was the Director of Academic Relations for the Cleveland East Chapter of the Institute of Management Accountants where she reached out to area colleges through networking events and newsletters to inform students of the benefits obtained from receiving the CMA certification. Natasha is interested in pursuing a career in the managerial accounting or forensic accounting sector and would like to remain in the Greater Cleveland area.

Dontavius Jarrells

Chuck Kraus

Charles Kraus graduated with degrees in History and Political Science. In 2008-2009, Kraus was awarded a Boren Scholarship to study in the People’s Republic of China. He has published articles in The Journal of Korean Studies, The Review of Korean Studies and currently maintains a popular research blog on modern Xinjiang (http://chuckkraus.wordpress.com/). After graduating from Hiram, Kraus plans to pursue a master’s degree in Asian Studies from George Washington University. He can be reached via email at KrausCR@gmail.com.

Lauren London

Lauren London graduated with a degree in Political Science and a History minor. She was a member and co-captain of the Varsity Volleyball team, a resident assistant for three years, President of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, and is in her third year as a Garfield Scholar. Lauren was also a member of the Dean’s List and the Alpha Society.

Kimberly Miller

Kimberly Miller graduated with a degree in Communication. She is originally from Lancaster, PA and graduated from Conestoga Valley High School. Miller was active in the Hiram College community and served as Co-Editor of the Vision (yearbook), Co-President of the Hiram College Democrats, Social Sciences Senator as well as a writing assistant. She plans to spend a year volunteering or teaching before attending graduate school, where she plans on studying international public health. Her dream is to work for Doctors Without Borders or another NGO that focuses on providing care in war-torn and developing nations.

Gillian Millwood

Gillian is an international student from Jamaica and graduated with a degree in Accounting. In addition to being a second year scholar, she was also a four year member of the Hiram College women’s swim team and the Intercultural Forum. She also served as a student ambassador and is in her second year as a teaching assistant. As a result of the great number of fields that could be entered, she plans on attending graduate school to obtain a Masters in International Business and/or Business Administration. After discussion with Ambassador Roberto Flores-Bermúdez of Honduras, her next step is to return home to contribute to the financial and trade sector of CARICOM nations.

Michelle Morgan

Michelle Morgan graduated with a degree in Biology and Political Science minor. Michelle was a founding member and secretary of the Rotaract club at Hiram College. She was also involved in the MEDICUS Club, a club dedicated to the preparation of students applying to medical school. She was a staff writer for the college newspaper, The Advance, contributing articles about sports, medicine and Garfield Center events. She plans to go to medical school to become a doctor/researcher working in the field of genetic microbiology. She plans to stay an active member of her community by participating in Rotary International.

Mollie Patterson

Mollie Patterson, a Pennsylvania native, graduated with a degree in History, with a focus in Classical Studies. She was also a member of Student Ambassadors and Community Council at Hiram. This past summer, she spent a month in Italy and Greece. While in Greece, she had an opportunity to meet with European Union representatives and a United States embassy representative. This trip confirmed her aspiration to attend law school after graduation, focusing on International Law.

Lydia Cancilla

Lydia Cancilla graduated with a degree in Political Science and a minor in History. She has been part of the Garfield Center for Public Leadership for two years and in fall 2010 will be attending law school at Washington and Lee University.

Aurelia Nugroho

Aurelia Nugroho graduated with double majors in Political Science and Communication. She is an international student from Indonesia, and graduated valedictorian from Global Jaya International School in Jakarta. Nugroho was involved in various activities and clubs across campus including: a teaching assistant, assistant editor of the Hiram Poetry Review, editor of The Advance Arts and Entertainment section, as well as being one of four members of the Garfield Center Marketing Group. She plans to attend graduate school focusing in political management, public relations, and campaigns/ elections. Her dream job is to travel as a political adviser and/or campaign manager for new democracies around the world.

Udaivir Pathania

Udai Pathania graduated with double majors in Accounting and Economics. He has been the Vice Chair to the Student Senate Finance Committee for the past three years. Udai was a member of the Dean’s List and has interned in two multinational corporations in his freshman and sophomore summers, at Stolt-Nielsen Transportation Group in Singapore as a management trainee, and with the Sherwin-Williams Company in Cleveland as a financial cash management intern. He has also worked in an agribusiness consulting agency, GIC Group in Washington DC, as a Research Associate for the spring semester of 2009. Udai plans to attend graduate school for his Masters Degree in Accountancy and a Masters Degree in Financial Engineering.

Natalie Rushton

Ashley Speaker

Ashley Speaker graduated with a degree in Education. Her love of history and world studies has given her the desire to travel. Through Hiram’s Study Abroad Program she traveled to Ireland and England. She has also traveled around regions of the United States and Canada. Beyond the realms of history and politics, music is a major part of her life. She has played in the Hiram College Concert Band and studied clarinet and recorder. She is a vocalist in the youth worship band at Southington Christian Church. She was a second year Garfield Scholar and credits the Center with providing her a chance to grow through networking with others and opportunities to harness leadership skills which will help her in the classroom and beyond.

Steve Voytek

Steve Voytek, a Maryland native, graduated with a degree in Political Science and minor in Economics. His areas of interest include International Relations with a regional focus on Eastern Europe as well as the formulation of American foreign policy. Steve has interned on the local, state and federal levels of government during his summers away from Hiram. Most recently he completed an internship at the Department of Commerce with the Congressional Legislative Affairs Office. After graduation he plans to get a TESOL certification to teach English abroad. Eventually Steve plans to attend graduate school to pursue a Ph.D. in Political Science.

Jared Wolschlager

Jared Wolschlager graduated with a BA in Religious Studies and a minor in Political Science. He plans to attend both theology school and graduate school in pursuit of double masters in social work and Divinity/Theology. His future career goals include either NGO work abroad or work on a college campus as a director of religious life. He was involved in community council, the student environmental group, and the elementary tutoring program among others. He also worked as a teaching assistant for a freshman colloquium.

Huanran Zhong
Joe Trela

Joe Trela graduated magna cum laude from Hiram in May 2009 with a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting. He was a two-year member of the Garfield Center, three-year captain of the Hiram College baseball team, a founding member of the Endowment Investment Club, two year member of Finance Committee, and Community Council. Joe graduated with a Masters of Accountancy with a concentration in Information Systems Audit and Control at Bowling Green State University in August 2010. He will begin his career in fall 2010 in the Cleveland office of Deloitte & Touche in the Enterprise Risk Services practice and will take the Certified Public Accountant examination and Certified Information Systems Auditor examination. He is also working to grow and improve his charitable organization, Up2Bat for Nicaragua, which Joe began at Hiram in spring 2009. The website was recently completed. (www.up2bat.org)