Stony Brook University held its annual Graduate Awards Ceremony on May 20 in the Student Union Ballroom. The event celebrated graduate students, faculty, and program leaders from various disciplines. Dean of the Graduate School and Vice Provost for Graduate Education, Celia Marshik, hosted the ceremony.
This year's honorees began their studies during a challenging period marked by remote learning and pandemic-related disruptions. Celia Marshik remarked on their resilience: “These students triumphed not only over the usual challenges of graduate study and research, which are legion, but over the difficulties of beginning graduate school at that anxious time.”
The ceremony also recognized faculty and staff contributions to graduate programs. Rebekah Burroway was commended for her leadership as a graduate program director in Sociology. Professor Nicholas Wilson praised her unique blend of strength and care: “She has the remarkable capability to strike balances I’ve never seen before: administrative acuity and discipline; tough love and ‘real talk’ when required; over-and-above support when needed.”
Several honorees participated in the Distinguished Doctoral Colloquium on May 19, presenting their dissertation research. Dean Celia Marshik noted, “It’s hard to think of a group working on more important projects.” She appreciated how clearly they presented their work to a diverse audience.
PhD candidate Jason Michael Withorn received recognition for his research contributions as a recipient of the President’s Award to Distinguished Doctoral Students. Professor Elizabeth Boon highlighted his dedication: “He’s a dedicated and accomplished researcher. He’s a fantastic mentor.”
Executive Vice President and Provost Carl Lejuez closed the event by emphasizing the significance of graduate education: “This event truly highlights our students’ accomplishments in ways that are both aspirational and deeply meaningful."
Awards were given across various categories, including fellowships, teaching excellence, mentoring excellence, and service awards.
For more information visit the Graduate School website and Facebook.