Outstanding Students of the Year

Each year, the College of Liberal Arts honors exceptional students from each of our departments as an Outstanding Students. Chosen by faculty and staff who have seen their dedication, growth, and accomplishments firsthand, these students embody the values that define CLA: curiosity, creativity, and a deep commitment to learning. Selection criteria vary by department, allowing each unit to highlight the unique strengths and achievements of their students—whether in academics, research, service, the arts, or leadership. Together, these students reflect excellence across the college.

Some of the recipients of the UAF College of Liberal Arts' Outstanding Student Award for the 2024-2025 academic year gather on the Dine 49 steps in Wood Center on April 18, 2025. From left, bottom row, are Patrick Deslaurier, Trevor Chrzan; second row, Lizzy Hahn, Kjrsten Schindler, Kevin Carroll; third row, Sarah Dexter; fourth row, Hazel Probst, Sophia Martin; fifth row, Katie Craney, Xochitl Martinez, Jaylon Pate; top row, Ben Lucia, Evelina Savonin. UAF Photo by Leif Van Cise — UAF Photo by Leif Van Cise
Recipients of the UAF College of Liberal Arts' Outstanding Student Award for the 2024-2025 academic year gather on the Dine 49 steps in Wood Center on April 18, 2025. From left, bottom row, are Patrick Deslaurier, Trevor Chrzan; second row, Lizzy Hahn, Kjrsten Schindler, Kevin Carroll; third row, Sarah Dexter; fourth row, Hazel Probst, Sophia Martin; fifth row, Katie Craney, Xochitl Martinez, Jaylon Pate; top row, Ben Lucia, Evelina Savonin.

Meet the 2024–2025 CLA Outstanding Students

We are proud to celebrate the current cohort of Outstanding Students—individuals who have distinguished themselves not only within their departments but across our broader community. Their contributions make a meaningful impact, and their stories inspire us all. Congratulations to each of this year’s honorees on this well-deserved recognition!

Danielle Lopez Stamm

Anthropology

Xochitl Martinez

Anthropology

Hazel Probst

Anthropology

Nels Ure

Arctic and Northern Studies

Katie Craney

Arctic and Northern Studies

Jaylon Pate

Art

Kevin Carroll

Art

Sarah Dexter

Art

Anna DeVolld

Communication

Sophia Martin

English

Lizzy Hahn

Global Languages & Literatures

Trevor Chrzan

History

Philipp Moosmayer

Journalism

Patrick Deslaurier

Justice

Megan Williams

Justice

Duncan Forrest

Linguistics

Olivia Buzby

Music

Cody Webb

Music

Ben Lucia

Music

Evelina Savonin

Music

Jamie Bear, outstanding student of the year edition

Ryan Pullis

Philosophy

Cole Osowski

Political Science

Cadence Conner

Political Science

Shooka Bennett

Psychology

Danelle Shellikoff

Social Work

Kjrsten Colleen Schindler. Photo courtesy of Schindler

Kjrsten Schindler

Theatre & Film

Kayla Johnson

Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies

Sarah Manriquez

Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies

Destiny Rymer

Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies

Support the Next Generation of CLA Leaders

The students we celebrate here today didn’t reach excellence alone—they were encouraged by mentors, supported by scholarships, and inspired by a community that believes in their potential. You can be part of that journey.

By making a gift to the College of Liberal Arts, you’re investing in the success of tomorrow’s Outstanding Students. Your support helps provide scholarships, fund research and creative projects, and ensure that every student has the resources they need to thrive.

Join us in celebrating excellence and fueling opportunity. Donate now and make a difference in the lives of CLA students.

As I wrap up this chapter, I just want to say how thankful I am for the people, experiences that shaped my time here because UAF has given me more than just a degree or education. This program challenged me, inspired me, and helped me to grow into the musician and person that I am today. I'm very thankful for that and for my family and the professors who kept me going and believed in me. Evelina Savonin '25, M.Mu., Music Performance