BSE Department Celebrates Graduates and Community Builders

May 18, 2025

Mark Stone, Department Head and Professor, delivered the opening remarks at the graduation celebration
Biological Systems Engineering Department Head and Professor Mark Stone delivers opening remarks at the graduation celebration.
Yahya Shema | Biological Systems Engineering

On Thursday, May 8, the BSE Department gathered to honor and celebrate its graduating students. Each graduate received a certificate of achievement, accompanied by heartfelt remarks and personal memories shared by faculty as they were called forward. The event was a meaningful celebration of their accomplishments and a chance to cheer them on as they embark on their next adventure.

The BSE department also recognized its Community Builders—individuals who go above and beyond to help the department become a place where everyone feels welcome, supported, and able to thrive.

2025 Community Builder Award Winners (Undergraduate Students)

  • McKenzie Branting
  • Daniel Bashtovoi
  • Morgan Heckman
  • Naomi Plante
  • Sean Poppens
  • Dylan Sash

2025 Community Builder Award Winner (Graduate Student)

  • Jackfin K. C.

2025 Stout International Outstanding Graduate Student Award

  • Amlan Balabantaray

2025 Elenore Gakemeier Swarts Outstanding PhD Graduate Student Award

  • Kevin Steele

The Faculty We All Needed Award

  • Dr. David Mabie, Assistant Professor of Practice

The Heart of BSE Award

  • Benjamin Hage, Postdoctoral Researcher

Special thanks to all the parents, faculty, and staff who attended the celebration and to everyone who helped organize the event.