CSM La Plata Campus Honors Outstanding Achievements at Academic Excellence Awards

On May 8, the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) held an event at its La Plata Campus to celebrate its students' academic achievements. The Academic Excellence Award Reception recognized a diverse group of students for their perseverance and dedication. Among the honorees were a mother of five who balanced her studies with her job, an international student from Mexico City making a career transition, and a dual-enrolled high school student interested in law and creative writing. These students demonstrated the commitment CSM fosters in its academic community.

CSM President Dr. Yolanda Wilson opened the ceremony, acknowledging the students' sacrifices. She highlighted the importance of their hard work and the pride they should feel for themselves and on behalf of their families and CSM. Dr. Wilson's speech emphasized celebration and recognition of the students' achievements and their potential future contributions.

Dr. Jacquelyn Madry-Taylor, Interim Vice President for the Division of Learning, spoke next. She discussed the importance of sacrifice in achieving excellence and described the event as both a culmination of the students' efforts and a stepping stone to future successes. She noted that CSM has provided them with a strong foundation for further excellence and impact.

The keynote speech was delivered by Megan Roberts, the 2023 recipient of CSM's Adjunct Faculty Excellence Award. Roberts encouraged the students to continue striving for excellence and to pursue their passions determinedly. Her speech focused on the students' potential and their anticipated contributions to society.

A major moment of the evening was the presentation of the 2024 Faculty Excellence Award to Shaneeza Kazim. Dr. Melanie Osterhouse, Chair of the Faculty Excellence Committee, explained the award criteria, which include contributions to teaching, curriculum development, and community engagement. Kazim, noted for her commitment to inclusivity and diversity in early childhood development, was warmly applauded for her impact on students and colleagues.

This article has been enhanced with AI assistance. Agree to access AI-generated content by clicking here, or opt for content with less AI influence here.