Anna Collingwood earns the 2025 LBJ Outstanding Senior Student Award

In addition to her major, Anna is concentrating in micro and nano devices and minoring in applied mathematics. Her academic journey has been complemented by a strong commitment to leadership and community, as evidenced by her extensive involvement in various student organizations. She has served as an officer in the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), IEEE Eta Kappa Nu (HKN), and Alpha Gamma Delta, while also taking on the role of a recruitment counselor for Greek Life Panhellenic.

Throughout her college career, Anna has consistently balanced multiple leadership roles, often holding office in several organizations simultaneously. During her senior year, she served as Secretary of IEEE and President of HKN, an honor society she helped establish at Texas State. Her dedication to both technical and social communities showcase her ability to lead, manage responsibilities, and foster collaboration across diverse groups.

The winner of the LBJ Outstanding Senior Student Award is selected by a committee of Alumni Association Board of Directors. Patrick Samuels, ‘15 communication studies major and committee member, was impressed by Anna’s ability to lead with integrity, build community, and create space for others to rise. 

“Anna stood out for her remarkable blend of academic excellence, servant leadership, and her deep commitment to uplifting others,” said Patrick. “As an Honors College ambassador and a champion for inclusive community engagement, she has consistently demonstrated both civic responsibility and intellectual purpose.”

In addition to her leadership experience, Anna has actively engaged in research under Dr. Ariful Haque in the Ultrawide Bandgap Semiconductor lab, working closely with her mentor Maria Sultana. She has also contributed to outreach and service initiatives, participating in K–12 STEM education efforts and environmental projects like cleaning up the San Marcos River. Her passion for engineering, leadership, and community service reflects a well-rounded and driven individual prepared to make meaningful contributions to her field.

Patrick elaborates on Anna by sharing that “her passion for empowering underrepresented and marginalized student voices reflects the legacy and values of President Lyndon B. Johnson, who declared, ‘We seek not just freedom but opportunity. We seek not just legal equity but human ability.’ She left a lasting impression on the committee through her poise, academics, and servant heart.”