For achievements in academics and leadership, 10 graduating Titans received Chancellor's Award for Excellence

The spring semester at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh wrapped up with so many celebrations-and so much to be proud of.

In recognition of their achievements, 10 seniors were selected to receive the 2026 Chancellor's Award for Excellence for their record of leadership and service on campus and in the community.

The students' record of leadership, service, and engagement-both on campus and in the broader community-exemplifies the very best of UW-Oshkosh students. The students' consistently sought opportunities to lead with integrity and compassion, and used their talents and creativity to uplift those around them.
Their willingness to serve, mentor and inspire others speaks volumes about their commitment to making a meaningful and lasting impact.

Following are the 2026 Chancellor's Award for Excellence honorees:

Dominic Dempsey of Kimberly, a biomedical sciences major who is minoring in chemistry who hopes to pursue a career as a physician, says leadership has been a central part of his college experience, including a number of roles with Beta Theta Pi and in chemistry as an SI leader for five semesters. He is looking forward to presenting his research and the challenge and learning opportunity to complete an Honors thesis. Volunteering in Oshkosh has allowed him to connect to the community and help support underserved populations. He was recognized for academic and leadership excellence through Order of Omega, National Society for Leadership and Success, and consistent Dean's List honors.

Jessica Duch says upon graduation, she plans to use her creativity and storytelling skills to continue amplifying important voices, whether in journalism, public relations or the military. She spent two years interning for UWO's Center for Civic and Community Engagement, where she worked with a team to help students and community members engage in education beyond the classroom. She worked for UWO's Public Relations Student Society of America to plan and execute the National Organ Day Awareness Competition. She worked for the Advance-Titan and worked as a seasonal reporter for The Green Laker. In addition, she served in the Wisconsin Army National Guard before transferring to the Wisconsin Air National Guard, where she serves as an award-winning public affairs specialist with the 115th Fighter Wing.

Sarah Granberg, an Honors College graduate at UWO, will continue her education at UW-Madison in pursuit of a doctor of physical therapy degree. Throughout her time at UWO, she has been a member of Fletcher Hall Council, United Students in Residence Halls, Pre-Rehabilitation Professionals Society and Best Buddies. Granburg has studied abroad, earned three prestigious scholarships, is a member of the Honors College and Reeve Union Board. Granberg created UWO's first-ever Titan Color Run and has been employed on campus through Titan Nights, Reeve Union Student Engagement and the Campus Life Desk. She said all the opportunities at UWO have set her up for success.

Emily Heider began her academic journey at UWO with a focus on music and Spanish with coursework in preparation for veterinary school. In 2024, she refined her academic decision and transitioned to a double major in Spanish and Biomedical Science, with a music minor. Heider has been involved in research, volunteerism, has earned recognition academically and will be a student speaker at Commencement. She has pursued diverse professional experiences including research, music, Spanish language, tutoring and is currently a veterinary technician assistant. This fall, she will attend graduate school to pursue a doctor of veterinary medicine degree and ultimately her career interest in small animal surgery.

Maris Heun, is applying to physician assistant school, with plans to start in May 2027. While at UWO, Heun volunteered in the Sports Performance and Injury Research Laboratory and presented a research project at Celebration of Scholarship and Creative Activity. She was a member of several organizations including the National Society of Leadership and Success where she served as treasurer. Heun is a weekly volunteer at Father Carr's Community Free Clinic and has assisted with Special Olympics Wisconsin, Christine Ann Domestic Abuse Service and others. Heun said the experiences deepened her passion for service, leadership and patient-centered care as she prepares for a future in the medical field.

Tobin Jackson, a graduating anthropology major, said the UWO work, research, leadership and community involvement has shaped a strong academic path and personal outlook. Among Jackson's jobs, was with UWO's largest NSF-funded initiative related to Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs). Over two years, Jackson progressed from ethnographic student researcher to lead student researcher. During sophomore year, Jackson began independent research examining LGBTQIA+ student experiences at UWO and presented the findings at the 2025 Celebration of Scholarship event and at the 2026 Women and Gender Studies Consortium Spring Conference. Currently running the Ethnography Lab on campus where cultural anthropology students conduct research, Jackson also serves on various clubs and is preparing for graduate school.

Kennedy Koehler, a rehabilitation science major from Kimberly, will continue her studies as a Titan in the Master of Athletic Training program. Koehler, a member of the Honors College, has been involved as a student tutor for kinesiology and biology, and leadership roles in various clubs, Greek life and club volleyball. In addition to serving as a student tutor, she works as varsity volleyball assistant coach at Lourdes Academy, head volleyball coach and trainer at Blaze Sports. Koehler won the 2025 Rising Star, Sorority Member of the Year, Outstanding Greek Philanthropist, ZTA National Achievement Scholarship and UWO Kinesiology Scholarship. With Zeta Tau Alpha, Koehler created programming that raised nearly $12,000 for breast cancer education and awareness.

Amanda Pierron of Neenah, is a first-generation college student who double-majored in political science and broadfield social science education. She is involved in student leadership, research and mentorship on campus through roles as a Titan Captain and intern with New Student and Retention Programs, as a program coordinator for the Whitburn Center, as a McNair Scholar and research assistant. She is dedicated to helping others succeed, using her work to support students, expand opportunities and strengthen communities. After graduating, she will continue her education at UWO, pursuing a master's degree in Education Leadership and Policy with the goal of working in higher education and student affairs.

Grace Riedl, is graduating with a strong commitment to education, research and community involvement. After earning her diploma, she will be teaching social studies at North Fond du Lac High School. She will gain classroom experience and has plans to continue her education by pursuing a master's degree and doctorate in education. She has been involved in academic research and students organizations. She published a research study that examined disparities in college enrollment for low-income students and highlights the long-term effects of the pandemic on educational access.

Ethan Specht, who plans to serve his community as a law enforcement officer, said his time at UWO has been incredibly rewarding. He was a participant in the Wildlife Conservation Club and competed in intramural sports. As a leader in Beta Theta Pi fraternity, he was honored in 2025, to receive the Founders Award, a prestigious accolade presented to members who exemplify integrity and the core values that Greek Life was founded upon. Following graduation, he plans to attend a law enforcement academy to complete his certification. He intends to serve with the same integrity, dedication and passion that defined his experience at UWO.

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