Jaden Richards: Giving Back Through Public Service Be it his time on the AAS or his research on public policy later this year, Jaden Richards is constantly searching for ways to apply his intellectual interests to the real world.
Alyssa Xu: On the Rhodes of Sincerity Alyssa Xu’s path from rural New Brunswick, Canada, to the rarefied ranks of Rhodes Scholars is not just a story of talent and triumph, but of luminous sincerity, fierce curiosity, and a devotion to seeing — and serving — those most often unseen.
Lillia Hammond: From Volleyball Courts to Rocket Science Fueled by boundless curiosity and a deep love for creation, Lillia Hammond '25 forges connections between art and engineering — mentoring, building, and leading with a spark that lights every room she enters.
Jacquelyn Cabarrubia: Building Community at Amherst and Beyond Jacquelyn Cabarrubia’s commitment to fostering community manifests not only in her work revitalizing her heritage language, but also through her dedication to empowering and uplifting every person she meets.
Bela Achaibar: Unraveling the Fabric of Diaspora Bela Achaibar pieced together an education as layered as the cultures she studied, built on curiosity, creativity, and a deep love for where we come from.
Ahanu Youngblood: Chasing Adventure With Boundless Curiosity With steady and unwavering passion, Ahanu Youngblood moves through the world with a quiet confidence: chasing snow, science, and community with a warmth that draws people in, and a drive that pushes boundaries.
Caden Stockwell: Pure Passion and Open Optimism Caden Stockwell channels his bold creative vision into his films and political voice, leaving an unforgettable mark on Amherst through art and leadership.
Nick Torres: The Pursuit of Education and Community Nick Torres balances an intense work ethic with a passion to help others, leading a life motivated by community building and support.
Gabby Avena: A Kind of Knowing Anyone who encounters Gabby Avena will be instantly struck by her genuine warmth, her ability to listen intently, and the way she makes every conversation feel both meaningful and inspiring.
Ben Clark-Eden: Finding Creativity and Community in Uncertainty Driven by a desire to form connections, Ben Clark-Eden has created a strong community and cemented his legacy at Amherst, both on and off the field.
Tim Carroll: “A Dedication of Principle” Whether studying philosophy, performing on stage, or advocating for the rights of animals, Tim Carroll is intentional in the way he crafts his life.
Olly Ajao: “Everything Always Works Out. Just Watch.” For Olly Ajao, putting herself out there has never been a challenge. Whether it’s getting over her fears of fitting in, finding her calling, or performing on stage, Ajao is convinced there is nothing she can’t do.
Amelie Justo-Sainz: Social Justice from Coast to Coast Amelie Justo-Sainz has spent her time at Amherst not only learning more about herself and her research interests, but also how she can combine her Latino background with the college’s opportunities and resources to work toward improving her home’s housing issues.
Karen Kang: A Duality of A Brain Wickedly smart but possessing a heart of gold, Karen Kang has taken advantage of the full liberal arts curriculum to forge her own unconventional path in academia, with an unquenched thirst for knowledge and genuine passion for making positive contributions in theoretical physics.