Every year Adelphi recognizes students who go above and beyond with the President’s Student Leadership Awards.
These students have balanced academics with internships, employment, study abroad, serving on club and organization executive boards and taking advantage of opportunities to contribute to campus life. This year’s awards go to these four students, three of whom are now ready to take a leading role in the world as Adelphi alumni.
Kennie Dionisio ’24
Kennie Dionisio accepting the President’s Student Leadership Award from Provost Chris Storm, PhD.
“My time here at Adelphi has taught me that everyone has a story, a personal brand. Mine just happens to be wrapped in brown and gold.”
A computer science major, Dionisio is president of the senior class alongside his many other roles at Adelphi, including but not limited to: peer assistant leader, student social media editor and commuter assistant. He has also interned at North Shore TV through the Jaggar Community Fellows Program over the summer. He founded the Asian Students Intercultural Alliance (ASIA), which a faculty member stated “stands as a testament to his commitment to fostering cultural diversity and inclusivity.”
Michelle Sarker ’24
Michelle Sarker accepting the President’s Student Leadership Award from Provost Chris Storm, PhD.
“As I embark on the next chapter of my journey, I carry with me the lessons and experiences gained at Adelphi, confident in my ability to effect change and make a difference in the world.”
A health sciences major, Sarker is vice president of the Senior Committee and president of the South Asian Student Association, a role in which she facilitated cultural festivities, educational seminars and community outreach initiatives. She also participated in the second Bhisé Global Learning Experience trip to India in 2023–2024 (part of the Bhisé Global Understanding Project) and interned at prominent media companies such as Warner Brothers, Discovery, FOX, People magazine and NBCUniversal. A fellow student said she “goes above and beyond to make events on campus not only incredible but also a learning experience for our Adelphi community.”
Madina Tuktina
Madina Tuktina accepting the President’s Student Leadership Award from Provost Chris Storm, PhD.
“The spirit of Adelphi shaped my leadership style, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and openness to new experiences.”
The international student from Kazakhstan double majoring in statistics and business management has held the position of co-founder and vice president of the International Study Society and worked at Girls Inc. through the Jaggar Community Fellows Program. A reference stated: “Madina conducted comprehensive market research to identify unexplored opportunities, leading to the creation of a focused marketing campaign that effectively yielded $20,000 in individual donations.”
Monish Churaman ’24
Monish Churaman accepting the President’s Student Leadership Award from Provost Chris Storm, PhD.
“Looking back on my time at Adelphi, I have slowly realized that my ‘right fit’ was here all along. Adelphi, thank you for taking a chance on me. It truly means the world to me.”
Churaman is a finance major, and holds many titles such as vice president of finance for Delta Sigma Pi, vice president of finance for the Student Activities Board, treasurer for the Inter-Greek Council and event coordinator and treasurer for the South Asian Student Association. His presence on campus has made an impact on fellow students and staff. A faculty member said, “His ability to navigate complex project dynamics, while fostering an environment of teamwork and innovation, speaks volumes about his leadership qualities. Not only has he benefited the Adelphi community through tangible projects, but his academic performance also remains commendable.”