Texas State announces inaugural Chautauqua Eleven award recipients

Texas State University has announced the winners of the inaugural Chautauqua Eleven award. This distinguished award is given to graduating seniors who exemplify the university’s founding purpose: to shape the future of Texas through education, leadership and service.

The university is proud to honor the following seniors:

• Monalisa Akwuruoha, a public health major from Plano
• Chikodi Arungwa, a theatre major from Magnolia
• Riana De Luna, a communication design major from Houston
• Amru Fadl, an international relations major from Sudan
• Alex Gray Franklin, a management major from McAllen
• Dillon Austin Gee, a biology major from San Marcos
• Megan Kelnar, an exercise and sports science major from Kyle
• Joaquin Marquez, an animal science major from Kingsville
• Abby Myers, a psychology major from Hillsboro
• Skyler Jade Ramdeen, a medical laboratory science major from Trinidad and Tobago
• Jimena Rodriguez-Gamez, a public health major from Rockdale 

Named in honor of the original 11-acre site, Chautauqua Hill, donated by the city of San Marcos to the state of Texas in 1899 to secure the location for a new institution of higher learning that would become Texas State University, this award pays tribute to the university’s founding and enduring mission. Inspired by Governor Joseph D. Sayers’ vision for a transformative institution dedicated to preparing the teachers and leaders of tomorrow, these 11 recipients demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence and intellectual growth, leadership and service that uplifts their peers and communities, and a passion for education and dedication to the betterment of Texas.

“The Chautauqua Eleven award reflects the very heart of Texas State’s mission,” said Cynthia L. Hernandez, Ph.D., vice president for Student Success. “The students recognized as part of the inaugural Chautauqua Eleven cohort have used their education not only to excel in the classroom, but also to lead, serve and open doors for others. Their achievements remind us that investing in student success is ultimately an investment in the future of Texas. As they cross the stage and begin their next chapter as Forever Bobcats, I am excited to see the impact they will make across our state and beyond, carrying this same passion for leadership and service into their communities, careers and families.”

The award is coordinated by the Division of Student Success as part of the university’s commitment to recognizing outstanding student leadership and engagement.

For more information on the award and the honorees, visit the award website.