Departmental Awards
Departmental Awards are selected by each academic department in the School of Business. Award recipients are honored at an annual School of Business award ceremony.
Student of the Year
Awarded to a senior or graduate student from each academic department who has demonstrated outstanding accomplishments in scholarship and leadership.
2023-2024 Recipients
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Michelle Chen, B.S. Accounting & Finance, 2024 Michelle is an outstanding student and future accounting professional double majoring in accounting and finance. She demonstrates an incredible work ethic, as evidenced by her role as vice president of Beta Alpha Psi. During her time at VCU, she held internships with KPMG, Keiter CPAs, the SCC and Harris Hardy & Johnston PC. In recognition of her academic achievements, she received the Controllers Executive Roundtable, Walter Lessing and John Sperry scholarships. After graduation, Michelle will join KPMG as a tax associate. |
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Nathan Thomas B.S. to M.A. Economics, 2024 Nathan is an exceptional student! He is currently in the Economics Accelerated M.A. program, which means that he is completing graduate economics courses during his senior year in the undergraduate program. Despite the added challenge, he has skillfully upheld a flawless 4.0 GPA! He is also working as a research assistant under the mentorship of Dr. Christopher Herrington, who praises his capabilities and contributions. Additionally, Nathan is a member of the VCU Student Managed Investment Portfolio (SMIP), and has participated in the Federal Reserve Challenge team, placing first in the 2023 Altria Analytics Competition. |
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Benny Brack B.S. Finance - General, 2024 Benny’s academic performance is exceptional, earning him recognition as a top student by his professors for his thorough and accurate work. As a claims intern at the Virginia Farm Bureau, Benny gained hands-on experience in critical finance skills, including risk assessment, data analysis and financial modeling. He plans to pursue a Master’s in Business with a concentration in finance at the School of Business and is also considering the possibility of pursuing a doctorate in the future. |
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Ben Massie B.S. Information Systems, 2024 Ben has consistently excelled in both the classroom and undergraduate research. Professors praise his exceptional intelligence, dedication and problem-solving abilities. He approaches challenging research tasks with confidence, delves into programming and user experience challenges and continually strives to learn and improve. His persistence and work ethic serve as an inspiration to those around him. In Dr. Elizabeth Baker’s undergraduate research lab, Ben led by example, embracing uncertainty and pushing his skill set to new levels, further inspiring his peers with his commitment and determination. |
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Natasha Romero Moskala B.S. Business - Management/Business Administration & B.A. Political Science - International Relations, 2025 Natasha maintains a perfect 4.0 GPA while double majoring in management/business administration and political science with a concentration in international relations. She is actively involved in leadership roles across campus, serving as a senator in the VCU Student Government Association, a mentor in the VCU Honors College and a founder of multiple student organizations. Natasha also serves as a judicial intern for the Richmond Circuit Court, a peer consultant in Studio BE and an employee at the YMCA of Greater Richmond. After graduation, she plans to pursue a law degree to integrate her two undergraduate fields of study. |
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Evan Torpy B.S. Marketing - Product and Brand Management, 2024 Evan will graduate in May 2024 with a marketing degree, concentrating in product and brand management, and a 3.9 GPA. He is actively involved in the VCU School of Business, frequently representing the school and the Department of Marketing at various events. Evan’s LinkedIn presence showcases his empathy and talent for building connections, often highlighting the accomplishments and influence of his peers and VCU faculty. His mission work in Colombia provided valuable insights that he applied to projects in his international marketing class, earning admiration from faculty for his diligence, hard work and the exceptional quality of his work. After graduation, Evan plans to pursue ministry while continuing his role in merchandise with the Flying Squirrels. |
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Kendrick Nguyen B.S. Supply Chain Management and Analytics, 2024 It is easy to see why Kendrick was selected for the Student of the Year Award. One professor remarked that Kendrick is “super professional and participative. He really showed mastery of the material.” Another stated that Kendrick is “probably the best and brightest student I’ve had in a few years.” A third noted that his work was “sensational.” All high praise! Kendrick has been on the Dean’s List every semester and received the Dean’s Scholar award in 2022-23. Kendrick is currently working to obtain a Six Sigma certification and, following graduation, plans to work for the federal government in a procurement or logistics position. |
Distinguished Service Award
Awarded to a student from each academic department who has provided distinguished service to the department, university, and community.
2023-2024 Recipients
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Joana Muller B.S. Accounting, 2024 Joana deserves recognition for the tremendous effort she has put forth as president of Beta Alpha Psi. She has been the driving force behind numerous events connecting VCU students with accounting professionals. Under her leadership, BAP’s visibility and student membership have grown significantly. Joana also served as treasurer for the Model United Nations at VCU, where she was instrumental in raising and managing the organization’s funds. She held a tax internship with BDO’s Richmond office and is currently deciding between competing offers for a full-time accounting role after graduation. |
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James Melton B.S. Economics, 2024 M.A. Economics, 2025 James has played many important roles in serving the Department of Economics and VCU. He is currently the teaching assistant for Principles of Macroeconomics, one of our largest courses, and has been a member of the Federal Reserve Challenge team at VCU. He also works at the Campus Learning Center as a tutor for mathematics and economics. Additionally, he is the president of the Student Economic Association, which organizes several events, networking sessions and tutoring services. After graduation, he hopes to become a research assistant at the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond. |
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Breanna Machado B.S. Financial Technology - Actuarial Science, 2024 As president of the VCU Actuarial Club, Breanna has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication. Under her guidance, the club gained recognition as a registered organization within the School of Business. She meticulously drafted the club’s constitution and delivered engaging presentations, increasing student interest in actuarial science. In addition to her leadership, Breanna has excelled academically, showing significant growth in her analytical abilities and knowledge. Her proactive involvement and academic achievements make her a deserving recipient of this honor. |
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Thomas Chatman B.S. Information Systems, 2024 Thomas is a dedicated leader who excels both in the classroom and beyond. As the past president, secretary and current adviser for the Developing Men of Color (DMC) organization at VCU, he organized numerous events and secured grants totaling over $40,000. A graduate of VCU LEAD, Thomas believes in leading by example and continues to pursue personal and professional growth. He founded Catalyst Gallery, an initiative empowering artists worldwide. Additionally, he volunteered with Pre-Collegiate Initiatives, delivering STEM workshops to middle school students. Guided by his core principles of discipline, accountability and open-mindedness, Thomas strives for excellence in education, work and life. |
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Serena Loomba B.S. Business - Management/Entrepreneurship, 2025 Serena is set to graduate in May 2025 with a major in management and entrepreneurship, a minor in psychology and a 3.9 GPA. At VCU, she actively participates in organizations such as Women in Business. Beyond campus, Serena makes a significant impact through her role at the Metropolitan Business League (MBL), where she serves as a lead mentor in the Youth Entrepreneurship Program, guiding disadvantaged youth. Post-graduation, Serena plans to continue her impactful work by aspiring to a leadership position within the MBL, where she aims to support entrepreneurs and promote equitable access to resources and opportunities. |
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Samhita Bollineni B.S. Marketing - Marketing Communication and Analytics, 2024 Samhita will graduate in May 2024 with a marketing major, concentrating in marketing communication and analytics, and a minor in sales, earning a 3.9 GPA. She aims to pursue a career in financial or technical selling, leveraging her ability to harness analytical insights and relational selling tactics for success. Samhita is a key member of the River City Rainmakers sales team and received Winner’s Circle recognition at the “Selling with the Bulls” sales competition in Tampa, placing in the top nine among 126 competitors. Her team also secured a third-place finish. In addition to her sales achievements, Samhita is actively involved in several notable organizations, serving as chair of marketing for Women in Business, participating as a Business Student Ambassador and being a member of Alpha Kappa Psi Fraternity. Faculty in the Department of Marketing commend her collaborative spirit and creativity, which have been hallmarks of her success. |
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Mynda Gentry B.S. Business - Management/International Management, 2024 Mynda will graduate in May 2024 with a degree in international management and a minor in marketing insights, earning a 3.9 GPA. As president of the VCU chapter of the American Marketing Association (AMA), she has led efforts to develop a strategic plan, grow membership and enhance outreach through social media. In spring 2024, she represented VCU at the AMA International Collegiate Conference in New Orleans. In addition to her leadership in AMA, Mynda serves as treasurer of the VCU Club Field Hockey Team and volunteers at the VCU Learning Garden. Previously, she participated in the Transfer Leadership Program and served as vice president of professional development for the VCU chapter of Pi Sigma Epsilon. In summer 2023, she further enriched her education by studying abroad in Athens, Greece. The Department of Marketing recognizes and appreciates Mynda’s exceptional service and involvement in a wide range of activities at VCU. |
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Natalie Hampton B.S. Supply Chain Management, 2024 Natalie is an outstanding contributor not just to the Supply Chain Management and Analytics (SCMA) department but to the School of Business. She is the founder and current president of the Sustainable Supply Chain Society as well as the member engagement chair for Women in Business. Natalie has served the School as a business student ambassador and has been an intern at Target as an operations manager. Following graduation, Natalie plans to participate in the RTX Operations and Supply Chain Leadership Development Program. |
Ann G. and Barney Roland Freasier, Sr. Tax Award
Awarded from the Department of Accounting to an outstanding student who has taken at least six hours of taxation courses at VCU and has demonstrated the most promise in the field of taxation.
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Marcos Saeed B.S. Accounting, 2024 Marcos’ high performance in taxation and overall academic excellence make him a deserving recipient of the Freasier Tax Award. While pursuing his accounting degree, Marcos held internships with Keiter CPAs, the Virginia Auditor of Public Accounts, Brown Edwards and Northwestern Mutual. After graduation, he plans to pursue a Master of Accountancy degree. Marcos has been an active member of Beta Alpha Psi, serving as treasurer. His hobbies include basketball, and he has completed coursework on the National Basketball Association’s Collective Bargaining Agreement. |
Davis Ratcliffe Insurance Award
Awarded from the Department of Finance, Insurance, and Real Estate to a full-time undergraduate business student who has completed two or more insurance courses offered by the School of Business, excluding summer and evening classes. The bases of selection are high scholastic rank in courses, character and initiative. Preference is given to a student who plans a career in property and casualty insurance. This award is named for the late Davis Ratcliffe, a former insurance industry executive who established the insurance program at Virginia Commonwealth University in 1969.
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Maggie Gill |
Dean's Scholars
The top performing students are selected from each class year annually to be honored as a Dean’s Scholar. Students are carefully selected based on their collegiate performance, including GPA and credits completed at VCU. Dean’s Scholars are honored at an annual School of Business award ceremony.
Congratulations to the 2023 - 2024 Dean’s Scholars!
Dylan Ellett
Dean's List
This honor is awarded to students each semester in which a minimum of 12 semester credits are earned, and a GPA of at least 3.5 is attained with no grade below a “C.” This designation appears on students’ academic transcripts.
Honor Societies
Beta Gamma Sigma (BGS)
BGS has honored academic achievement in the study of business since 1913. Membership in BGS is the highest academic recognition a business student can achieve. Each year only 10% of the juniors and 10% of the seniors may be admitted into Beta Gamma Sigma.
To learn more about Beta Gamma Sigma, visit their website. Only business schools accredited by AACSB International may have local BGS chapters and may induct students into Beta Gamma Sigma.
Pi Kappa Phi
Pi Kappa Phi is the nation's oldest and most selective multidisciplinary collegiate honor society. Membership is offered to students, faculty and others who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement.
Visit VCU's chapter of Pi Kappa Phi's website to learn about membership and scholarship opportunities.
Past Departmental Award Recipients
Student of the Year
Accounting: Hector Luna
Economics: Lily Buysse
Finance, Insurance and Real Estate: Adam Leathers
Information Systems: Mahnoor Imran
Management and Entrepreneurship: Kristen Ball
Marketing: Abigail Simmons
Supply Chain Management and Analytics: Naomi Abiyu
Distinguished Service Award
Accounting: Jeffrey Kum
Economics: Sarah Cuba
Finance, Insurance and Real Estate: Jeffrey Metts
Information Systems: Kahlil Banning
Management and Entrepreneurship: Priya Munagala
Marketing: Tim Phu
Supply Chain Management and Analytics: Summer Natour
Ann G. and Barney Roland Freasier, Sr. Tax Award
Shawndel Holder
Davis Ratcliffe Insurance Award
Mallory Keck-Wilson
Student of the Year
Accounting: Simranjeet Kaur
Economics: Dorian Philpot
Finance, Insurance and Real Estate: Gautam Ravandur
Information Systems: Neema Tahmasebi
Management and Entrepreneurship: Rika Nabee
Marketing: Christina Veha
Supply Chain Management and Analytics: Mackenzie Williams
Distinguished Service Award
Accounting: Kelsey Watlington
Economics: Kai Amado
Finance, Insurance and Real Estate: Connor Riely
Information Systems: Nana Owusu
Management and Entrepreneurship: Ava Furbee
Marketing: Bryce Hayes
Supply Chain Management and Analytics: Keara Meeley
Ann G. and Barney Roland Freasier, Sr. Tax Award
Brian Evans
Davis Ratcliffe Insurance Award
John Eshler
Student of the Year
Accounting: Laura Cooper
Economics: Niranjana Harikrishnan
Finance, Insurance and Real Estate: Derrick Gachago
Information Systems: Leandro Torrico
Management and Entrepreneurship: Victoria Brown
Marketing: Austin Evans
Supply Chain Management and Analytics: Kylee Tennis
Distinguished Service Award
Accounting: Michael Viola
Economics: Michael Portillo
Finance, Insurance and Real Estate: Nicoleta Gavris
Information Systems: John Archie
Management and Entrepreneurship: Chandni Patel
Marketing: Jasmine Demory
Supply Chain Management and Analytics: Shane Rogers
Ann G. and Barney Roland Freasier, Sr. Tax Award
Christopher M. Pirrello
Davis Ratcliffe Insurance Award
William J. Ragland
Student of the Year
Accounting: Derek Hetrick
Economics: Jonathan C. Campbell
Finance, Insurance and Real Estate: John Kruchten
Information Systems: Giovanni Knight
Management and Entrepreneurship: Connor Parsons
Marketing: Melissa Denisco-Morici
Supply Chain Management and Analytics: Bentley Zabicki
Distinguished Service Award
Accounting: Justin Nedwick
Economics:
Finance, Insurance and Real Estate: Elisa Maurice
Information Systems: George Akpakli Jr.
Management and Entrepreneurship: Bryce Catlett
Marketing: Radha Kapadia
Supply Chain Management and Analytics: Daniel Filippelli
Ann G. and Barney Roland Freasier, Sr. Tax Award
Hung N. Loung
Davis Ratcliffe Insurance Award
Tamia P. Frye-Ford
To view each recipients' biography, please visit the respective department's webpage.
Accounting • Economics • Finance • Information Systems • Management and Entrepreneurship •
Marketing • Risk Management and Insurance • Supply Chain Management and Analytics