Celebrating Leadership, Impact and Community at the 2025 Student Leadership Awards

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Students, faculty and staff came together on Thursday evening to celebrate the 2025 Student Leadership Awards—an event honoring the students whose leadership and service have made a meaningful impact on the UNH Manchester and College of Professional Studies communities. The ceremony recognized student leaders across both the Manchester and Online programs.

Ally Twitchell, Coordinator of Student Involvement and a UNH Manchester alumna herself, remarked, "The fact that we receive so many wonderful nominations is inspiring. We brought this ceremony back just last year, and tonight we’re proud to present 11 awards—nearly double from 2024. It’s a testament to how active and passionate our student community has become.”

The evening featured a wide variety of awards, ranging from community building and professional impact to the prestigious Staff Sgt. Ryan M. Pitts Award, honoring veterans enrolled at UNH Manchester. Each award reflected a different facet of leadership, celebrating students who work behind the scenes to fester belonging, take initiative for inclusivity, uplift peers and create spaces of belonging.

Dean Mike Decelle spoke to the essence of the event, noting how leadership complements the academic journey.

“We all know how important academic success is, but equally important is how students involve themselves in their community,” said Decelle. “The awards that students receive today recognize not just academic excellence, but their contributions to student life and the greater Manchester community.”

The 2025 Student Leadership Award recipients are:

  • Organization Wildcat Pride Award: 200 Under Book Club
    Recognized for their spirit, presence and campus-wide engagement, the 200 Under Book Club is one of the most dynamic and inclusive organizations on campus, creating meaningful dialogue and connection through literature.
  • International Student Leader of the Year: Rashmi
    A Peer Advisor and Student Ambassador, Rashmi was celebrated for her leadership, empathy and commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all—especially international graduate students navigating the transition to UNH.
  • Unsung Hero Award: Rebecca Sanchez
    A new student balancing a full course load, motherhood and dual-enrollment, Rebecca’s determination, resilience and behind-the-scenes impact embody the very spirit of this award.
  • Building Community Award: Kendal Orija
    From Peer Leader to Student Government Vice President, Kendal’s dedication to student life and community-building shines through in her work with the 200 Under Book Club and across campus.
  • Graduate Student Leader of the Year: Marion Olsen
    As an ambassador for the Biotechnology Innovation Center and a peer resource, Marion has emerged as a trusted voice and natural leader within the graduate student community.
  • Rising Student Leader Award: Seth Alirez
    Though early in his college career, Seth has already made his mark through The Flush newsletter, his work with Campus Activities Board, and a commitment to encouraging his peers.
  • Professional Impact Award: JayCee Chitturi
    JayCee was honored for his extraordinary outreach through the STEM-MoBILE program—extending his passion for STEM education from New Hampshire classrooms to underserved communities in India, in tribute to his late mother.
  • Student Worker of the Year: Delaney Cote & Arianna Bikombe
    Delaney was celebrated for her leadership as a Peer Advisor and campus representative, while Arianna’s work on The Flush newsletter and involvement in student programming has left a lasting impression on campus culture.
  • Undergraduate Student Leader of the Year: Delaney Cote
    A dedicated student leader, peer advisor and community builder, Delaney’s impact reaches across departments—from Open House events to the Learning Commons—while completing her accelerated master’s program.
  • Staff Sergeant Ryan M. Pitts Award: Jonas Doherty & Jose Cintron-Ortiz
    Jonas was recognized for his academic discipline and initiative since his first year on campus. Jose, a leader among student veterans, received this honor for his outstanding civic engagement and statewide advocacy on behalf of military-affiliated students.
  • Legacy Award: Bill Connor (Posthumously)
    A graduate of the fire service administration program and longtime firefighter, Bill Connor was honored for a life of service, excellence and mentorship. His family and members of the Goffstown Fire Department were present to accept the award in his memory.

These award recipients represent the best of UNH Manchester’s values: leadership, compassion, community and purpose. Congratulations to all honorees and nominees; the community thanks you for your dedication to making our campus a more connected, vibrant, collaborative learning environment each day. 

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