Before they crossed the stage at this year’s graduation, Rutgers School of Nursing’s student leaders paused to celebrate a different milestone—one defined not by a diploma, but by the impact they made on their peers and the school community. While commencement marks the end of their academic journey, the leadership skills, relationships, and commitment to service they developed as students will continue to shape their careers and the future of nursing.

That spirit was celebrated at the Class of 2026 Student Leaders Awards Dinner, held May 5 at the Rutgers University Inn in New Brunswick, where graduating students were recognized for their participation in the many leadership opportunities offered at the School of Nursing.

Honorees included members of student government, peer tutoring and mentorship programs, and Rutgers chapters of state and national nursing associations. All School of Nursing campuses–Blackwood, Newark, and New Brunswick– were represented.

“These students have already demonstrated that nursing leadership begins long before a professional title is earned,” said Angela Starkweather (PhD, ACNP-BC, FAANP, FAAN), dean and professor. “Through service, advocacy, mentorship, and a commitment to their peers, they have helped strengthen our school community. Those experiences will continue to guide them as they enter or advance in the profession.”

Starkweather presented opening remarks followed by words of encouragement from Kyle D. Warren (PhD, MAE, BA), senior vice dean, administration and student affairs, and associate vice chancellor for student affairs – Rutgers Health. Award presentations were led by members of the Student Engagement and Wellbeing team, academic program directors, and faculty advisors.

The awards were structured to reflect representation across campuses, with some recognizing one student from each campus and others honoring leadership across the School of Nursing. The honors celebrated both individual achievement and the collective contributions of students who helped build community, supported their classmates, and advanced the school’s mission.

Class of 2026 student leaders, including those pictured above, were celebrated at the Rutgers School of Nursing Student Leadership Awards Dinner in New Brunswick. View the Photo Album

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Individual Awards

• Community Champion: Erin Hilongos; Sarah Cortes
• DAISY Awards: Yashfa Anwar; Monica Loperena; Jodiefoss Ramos; Natalie Swan
• Dean’s Award: Matthew Canlas; Elle Christofferson
• Ella V. Stonsby Award: Anna Cai
• Evelyn Hart Memorial Award: Stefanie Kaplan
• Fearless Fighter: Jennifer Huertas; Kimara McNeil
• Hildegard E. Peplau Writing Award: Jessie Kwan
• Joseph M. & Catherine Ruggieri Memorial Award: Stacey Lozin
• Next Gen Nurse: Trishana Sathiyanesan
• Outstanding Senior Award: Jodiefoss Ramos
• Student Affairs Award: Damilola Fenwa; Harlan Gonzales Quispe; Amy Heery; Darren Maraj; Stephanie Hernandez; Melissa Tomlin
• Student Star: Kimberly Barone; Theresa Corderi; Sarah Cortes; Stephanie Hernandez
• Wellness Warrior: Vanessa Caserta

Organizational Recognitions

(Recognizing members and officers of each organization)

• Men in Nursing Organization
• Peer Mentor Program
• Peer Tutor Program
• Rutgers Student Nurses Association (RSNA)
• Student Senate – Campus Council Members
• Student Senate – Executive Committee Members