05/15/2026
At the spring Medallion Ceremony, we were proud to recognize six graduates as outstanding Honors students. Nominated by Honors College faculty, each student clearly embodies the Honors College’s mission and values.
Congratulations to Leah, Eva, Will, Naomi, Michaela, and Morgan!
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Leah Ballinger has worked both on and off campus to create and enhance support systems focused on mental health. In addition to her work with the JMU Counseling Center, she has also been an active member and leader of various student organizations, and recently published a teaching resource for the JMU Center for Faculty Innovation.
Eva Del Gallo has been involved in the National Student Speech-Language-Hearing Association, served as an undergraduate member of the Infant & Toddler Language Laboratory, and has participated in clinical observations through the Communication Sciences & Disorders program. She has also volunteered and served in various other positions both on campus and in student organizations.
Will Jedrzejczak was a Founding and Lead Ambassador of JMU’s IT major, Internal Vice President of the Madison Consulting Club, and Executive Officer of the Cyber Defense Club. He also served as an Honors Teaching Fellow and has been an active member and leader in other organizations on campus, with a special focus on STEM and related issues.
Naomi Minwalla has worked as an office assistant in Hillcrest House, and completed two undergraduate theses. She studied and completed research abroad in Seville, Spain; and also took part in JMU’s Washington Semester program.
Michaela Powell has worked as an Engagement Assistant in the Honors College for the past two years. In addition to her work within the college, she also served as the Managing Editor for Iris Literature and Arts Magazine and has studied abroad at the University of Oxford.
Morgan Tribby has served as President of MHLC and as an RA for Honors housing – in addition to other leadership roles across campus. A proven leader throughout the campus community, Morgan was recently a recipient of the Student Today, Alumni Tomorrow award.
