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Awarded to an academically outstanding History and/or Philosophy major who is continuing onto graduate school and/or is an inductee into the Phi Alpha Theta National History Honor Society.
Dania Mustafa
Dania Mustafa is a History major, an Elementary Education major, and a Humanities Honors Program minor at William Paterson University. After graduation in Spring 2026, Dania will pursue a career as an Elementary School teacher. She intends to use her educational background in History to make Social Studies meaningful and relevant to her students. By fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment in the classroom, Dania hopes to inspire both curiosity and empathy in her students while also helping them develop a deeper understanding of their world.
Awarded to an academically outstanding History, Philosophy, and/or Liberal Studies major who is also an Education major.
Nashaly Lopez
Nashaly Lopez is a Liberal Studies major with concentrations in History and Psychology and an Elementary Education major at William Paterson University. After graduation in Spring 2026, Nashaly will pursue a Master’s degree to embark upon a career as a Mathematics teacher for students from third to sixth grades. She desires to transform students’ experiences with math by creating a classroom environment where mistakes are part of learning, students feel comfortable asking questions, and where math feels less intimidating and more meaningful. By strengthening her teaching practices, Nashaly intends to create learning environments where every student feels capable, supported, and proud of their growth.
Brandon Malloy
Brandon Malloy is a History major and a Secondary Education major at William Paterson University. After graduation in Spring 2026, Brandon will pursue a career as a High School Social Studies teacher. He also intends to continue his education with a Master’s degree in History and potentially a Doctorate degree. As an educator, he hopes to foster critical thinking, self-sufficiency, and a historical understanding that allows students to connect past events to modern issues. Brandon’s long-term goal is to assume a leadership role within a school community, including mentoring new teachers and contributing to curriculum development.
Awarded to an academically outstanding History major.
Joanna Baniszewska
Joanna Baniszewska is a History major and a Political Science minor at William Paterson University. After graduation in Spring 2026, Joanna will pursue a Master’s degree in Library Science with a concentration in Teaching at WPU. She aspires to become a School Media Specialist. Joanna is a member of Phi Sigma Pi National Honor Fraternity and participates in Catholic Campus Ministry. She regularly volunteers her time through various organizations, including teaching English as a second language through Volunteer Literacy of America. Joanna currently interns at Passaic Public Library, assisting with educational programming, archival projects, and community outreach initiatives.
Michael Joseph Dolce
Michael Joseph Dolce is a History major and a Secondary Education major at William Paterson University. Michael graduated in Fall 2025. His academic and professional goals include pursuing a Master’s degree in History, obtaining a Special Education certification, and continuing to grow as a History teacher. Michael also hopes to publish in the fields of History and Education to share ideas, research, and effective teaching practices with others.
Awarded to an academically outstanding Liberal Studies major.
Francheska Marie Perez
Francheska Marie Perez is a Liberal Studies major with concentrations in Psychology and Sociology at William Paterson University. After graduation in Summer 2026, Francheska will pursue a Master’s degree in Education at WPU and a career as an Elementary School teacher.
Gabriela Meza Valdez
Gabriela Meza Valdez is a Liberal Studies major with concentrations in Psychology and Sociology and an Early Childhood Education major at William Paterson University. After graduation in Spring 2026, Gabriela will begin her career as a third grade teacher. She also intends to pursue a Master’s degree in Counseling to realize her long-term career goal of becoming a Therapist.
Awarded to an academically outstanding History, Philosophy, Ethics, and/or American Studies minor.
Shawnize Jackson
Shawnize Jackson is a Social Work major, a History minor, a Psychology minor, and a Sociology minor at William Paterson University. Shawnize currently interns at the New Jersey Department of Child Protection and Permanency through the state’s Baccalaureate Child Welfare Education Program. After graduation in Spring 2026, she will work for the department through a two-year position guaranteed by the baccalaureate program. Shawnize is an Army Veteran and proud mom of two boys, possesses a passion for learning and growing, and brings bold energy and authenticity everywhere she goes.
Awarded to any current History major/minor, Philosophy major/minor, Ethics major/minor, Liberal Studies major, and/or American Studies minor for most outstanding writing assignment.
Linda Zwolinski
Essay: “American Elementary Public Schools’ Educational Strategies for Breaking the Stigma of Racism”
Linda Zwolinksi is a Liberal Studies major with concentrations in History and Linguistics and an Elementary Education with an English as a Second Language certification at William Paterson University. After her future graduation in Spring 2027, Linda will pursue a career as a teacher of Social Studies and History. She hopes to enliven her future classrooms with rich content from diverse ways of living, as a modality through which to create inclusive cultural curriculum and enhance academic and social awareness. Linda intends to bring the same professionalism and respect that she has experienced from professors and counselors at WPU to her future classrooms and career ventures.
Daniel Curtin
Daniel Curtin is a History major at William Paterson University. After graduation in Spring 2026, Daniel will pursue a Master’s degree in Early Elementary Education with a Special Education concentration. His career plans include becoming a licensed Teacher of the Deaf. Daniel possesses a passion for introducing young Deaf students to history in meaningful and accessible ways. He aims to support students in developing a strong sense of who they are as individuals and in understanding the world around them, while also showing them that their possibilities extend far and wide.
Monique Jones
Monique Jones is a Liberal Studies major with concentrations in Business Administration and Psychology at William Paterson University. Monique previously earned an Associate degree for Applied Science in Dental Hygiene and currently works as a Registered Dental Hygienist. She has four years of clinical experience providing personalized preventive care and possesses a passion for learning, caring for patients, and professional growth. After graduation in Summer 2026, Monique will transition into non-clinical roles within healthcare, with a focus on administration, management, and advocating for improved patient outcomes.
Melissa Martin
Melissa Martin is a Liberal Studies major with concentrations in Criminology and Criminal Justice and Psychology and an Early Childhood Education major at William Paterson University. Melissa graduated in Fall 2025.
Kaitlyn Weiner
Kaitlyn Weiner is a Liberal Studies major with concentrations in Psychology and Sociology and an Early Childhood Education major at William Paterson University. After graduation in Spring 2026, Kaitlyn will pursue a teaching position working with students from primary to third grades. She plans to continue her education through professional development courses and a possible Master’s degree, while also continuing to learn American Sign Language. She is passionate about creating engaging learning environments where young children can build strong academic and social foundations. Kaitlyn’s goal is to grow as an educator while providing an inclusive, supportive, and meaningful learning experience for her future students.
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Grace Bintliff
Grace Bintliff is a History major, an Art History minor, and a Humanities Honors Program minor at William Paterson University. After graduation in Spring 2025, she will attend graduate school in the field of Preservation Studies. Grace plans to pursue a career working in the museum and preservation industries.
Alaena Shepherd Merrill
Alaena Shepherd Merrill is a Liberal Studies major with concentrations in Psychology and Sociology and an Early Childhood Education major at William Paterson University. After graduation in Spring 2025, Alaena plans to pursue a career as a Kindergarten teacher to introduce young students to the joy of learning.
David Le Parc
David Le Parc is a Liberal Studies major with concentrations in History and Psychology and an Elementary Education major at William Paterson University. He graduated in Fall 2024. David plans to pursue a career working in public elementary education.
Nicolas Lupo
Nicolas Lupo is a History major and a Secondary Education major William Paterson University. Nicholas graduated in Fall 2024.
Stephen Andrew Reiver
Stephen Andrew Reiver is a History major at William Paterson University. Steven graduated in Fall 2024.
Maria Carolina Rozewski
Maria Carolina Rozewski is a Liberal Studies major with concentrations in History and Social Justice Studies at William Paterson University. After graduation in Summer 2025, Maria plans to pursue a Master’s degree that aligns with her professional mission in community development and social impact. Her goal is to deepen her knowledge in public policy and social justice to better serve underrepresented and low- to moderate-income communities. Maria is currently Vice President and Community Development Officer at a regional bank operating in both New Jersey and New York, leading initiatives that promote equitable access to financial services and economic opportunity.
Jami Celusak
Jami Celusak is a Liberal Studies major with concentrations in English and Psychology at William Paterson University. After graduation in Spring 2025, Jamie plans to pursue a Master’s in Teaching degree in Elementary Education Alternative Route at WPU. She also intends to pursue certification in Teaching Students with Disabilities and STEM/STEAM certification to teach middle school science. Jami dreams of a long-lasting career in education, assisting future generations of learners across all cultural and academic backgrounds.
Luna Osman
Luna Osman is a Psychology major, a Philosophy minor, and a Legal Studies minor at William Paterson University. After graduation in Spring 2025, Luna will attend Pace Law School in Fall 2025. She plans to pursue a career within the legal profession in immigration law or criminal defense law. Luna is also interested in corporate compliance in the technology sector, specifically in the field of artificial intelligence.
Mary Sutton
Mary Sutton is a Legal Studies major and an Ethics minor at William Paterson University. She graduated in Fall 2024. Mary plans to take the LSAT and pursue a Juris Doctor degree in law school. Mary currently works as a full-time litigation paralegal.
Jeanette Hudak
Jeanette Hudak is a Biology major, a History minor, and a Math minor at William Paterson University. After graduation in Summer 2025, she plans to pursue graduate study. Jeanette’s career goals include working as a researcher in the treatment and curing of chronic diseases.
Edwin Flores
Essay: “Antiwar Activism and Social Movements during the Vietnam War Era”
Edwin Flores is a History major at William Paterson University. He graduated in Fall 2024. Edwin plans to attend graduate school to pursue a Master’s of Teaching degree in Secondary Education. Edwin’s career goal is to become a high school teacher in New Jersey.
Rinesa Gerbeshi
Rinesa Gerbeshi is a History major, Legal Studies major, Philosophy minor, Political Science minor, and Social Science Honors Program minor at William Paterson University. She graduated in Fall 2023 and is an inductee of the Phi Alpha Theta National History Honor Society, Pi Sigma Theta National Political Science Honor Society, and Phi Theta Signa Honors Law Fraternity where she currently serves as President. Rinesa plans to pursue a JD degree in Human Rights Law.
Awarded to an academically outstanding, graduating History major.
Nicole Concetta
Nicole Concetta Sneyer is a History major and a Business Administration minor at William Paterson University. She graduated in Fall 2023 and is an inductee of the Phi Alpha Theta National History Honor Society. Nicole currently works in the Glen Rock Building Department while also volunteering at various organizations, including the American Legion Auxiliary Post 170. She is also working with former members of the Rochelle Park Historical Society to revive the organization.
Slavica Miteva
Slavica Miteva is a Liberal Studies major with concentrations in Social Justice Studies and Business Administration at William Paterson University. She graduated in Fall 2023 and plans to pursue a Master’s degree in Public Policy and a career in the non-profit sector.
Mia Grace Caviasco
Mia Grace Caviasco is a Liberal Studies major with concentrations in English and Psychology and an Elementary Education major at William Paterson University. After Spring 2024 graduation, she plans to pursue a Master’s degree in Education and work as an Elementary Education teacher. In the future, Mia also intends to pursue a Middle School Certification in English.
Francisco Chavez-Salazar
Francisco Chavez-Salazar is a History major and Secondary Education major at William Paterson University. After Spring 2024 graduation, Francisco plans to work at a High School or Middle School as a History and/or Social Studies teacher.
Rakibe Kamo
Rakibe Kamo is a Liberal Studies major with concentrations in American Studies and Criminology and Criminal Justice at William Paterson University. She graduated in Fall 2023 and is an inductee of the Phi Alpha Theta National History Honor Society. Rakibe plans to pursue a career teaching English as a Second Language.
Awarded to an academically outstanding History, Philosophy, American Studies, and/or Ethics minor.
Thomas Mariotti
Thomas Mariotti is a Psychology major and History minor at William Paterson University. He graduated in Fall 2023. Having served in the United States Marine Corps, Thomas plans to pursue a Master's degree in Social Work to help military veterans.
Shawn Michael Gesregan
Shawn Michael Gesregan is an Environmental Science major, Philosophy minor, and Sustainability and Climate minor at William Paterson University. After Spring 2024 graduation, he plans to pursue a career in Environmental Geology field work, while also developing his own research lab. Shawn’s goal is to further human knowledge about the Earth’s many ecosystems and their complexities.
Awarded to any current History major/minor, Philosophy major/minor, Liberal Studies major, American Studies minor, and/or Ethics minor for most outstanding writing assignment.
ESSAY: “Understanding Police Brutality in America through the Lens of Social Psychology”
Alaena Shepherd Merrill is a Liberal Studies major with concentrations in Sociology and Psychology and an Early Childhood Education major at William Paterson University. Alaena plans to pursue a career as a Kindergarten teacher to introduce young students to the joy of learning.
Awarded to an academically outstanding, graduating History major who is continuing on to graduate school and/or is an outstanding Phi Alpha Theta National History Honor Society member.
Fazli Hida
Fazli Hida is a History major and a Humanities Honors Program minor at William Paterson University. He is co-recipient of the 2021-2022 Livio Stechhini Essay Award. Fazli is also a member of the Hawthorne Historical Society. After Spring 2023 graduation, Fazli will pursue a Master’s degree in Library and Information Sciences at Rutgers University before embarking on a career as a librarian.
Liam Hornbostel
Liam Hornbostel is a History major and a Humanities Honors Program minor at William Paterson University. He graduated in Fall 2022 and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Business Administration at WPU. In the future, Liam hopes to enroll in a graduate program in History and work an educator.
Mark Kirker
Mark Kirker is a History major and an Anthropology minor at William Paterson University. He graduated in Fall 2022 and intends to pursue a Master’s degree in History with a certification in Teaching Students with Disabilities. Mark plans to work as an Elementary School teacher.
Awarded to an academically outstanding, graduating History major who is also pursuing a degree in Elementary or Secondary Education.
Kyle Crispina
Kyle Crispina is a History major and a Secondary Education major at William Paterson University. After Spring 2023 graduation, he intends to work as a High School teacher. In the future, Kyle hopes to pursue a graduate degree in History with a certification in Teaching Students with Disabilities.
Evelin Vaquero
Evelin Vaquero is a History major and a Secondary Education major with a certification in Teaching Studies with Disabilities at William Paterson University. After Spring 2023 graduation, Evelin intends to work as a History and/or Social Studies teacher in a Middle and/or High School.
Awarded to an academically outstanding, graduating History minor and/or American Studies minor.
Alex Peterman
Alex Peterman is an Economics major and History minor at William Paterson University. Alex graduated in Fall 2022.
Awarded to any current History major/minor or American Studies minor for an outstanding writing assignment completed within a History course during the present academic year.
Maxamillian Anderson
Essay: “British Intervention During the Taiping Rebellion”
Maxamillian Anderson is a History major at William Paterson University. Maxamillian is considering a Master’s degree in Library and Information Sciences and embarking on a career working for a university library.
Michael Johnson
Essay: “The Primary Theme of Anti-Japanese American Propaganda”
Michael Johnson is a History major and a Legal Studies minor at William Paterson University. After Spring 2023 graduation, he intends to pursue a Juris Doctor degree in law school. Michael plans to work as a Constitutional or Civil Rights lawyer.
Christina Aviles
Christina Aviles is a Liberal Studies major with concentrations in Psychology and Sociology and an Elementary Education major at William Paterson University. Christina graduated in Fall 2022.
Maria Stella Gomez
Maria Stella Gomez is a Liberal Studies major with concentrations in Psychology and Sociology and an Elementary Education major with a certification in Teaching English as a Second Language at William Paterson University. Maria will graduate in Spring 2023.
Emily Suto
Emily Suto is a Liberal Studies major with concentrations in Psychology and Sociology and an Early Childhood Education major with a certification in Teaching Students with Disabilities at William Paterson University. Emily graduated in Fall 2022.
Maxwell Johnson
Maxwell Johnson is a History major, a Philosophy minor, and a Humanities Honors Program minor at William Paterson University. He is an inductee of the Phi Alpha Theta National History Honor Society. Having graduated in Fall 2021 with Summa Cum Laude academic honors, Maxwell will attend Rutgers University Law School to pursue a Juris Doctor degree in Fall 2022.
Victoria Huizing
Victoria Huizing is a History major, an Elementary Education major, and Teaching Students with Disabilities minor at William Paterson University. Having graduated in Fall 2021 with Summa Cum Laude academic honors, Victoria plans to work as an Elementary School teacher and also pursue a Master’s degree in Education Leadership.
Joseph Pawlica
Joseph Pawlica is a History major and a Secondary Education major at William Paterson University. He is an inductee of the Alpha Alpha Alpha Honor Society. After graduating in Spring 2022, Joseph plans to work as a Middle School or High School Teacher and later pursue a graduate degree in Educational Psychology or Educational Curriculum and Instruction.
Melissa Babyak
Melissa Babyak is a History major and an Early Childhood Education major at William Paterson University. After graduating in Spring 2022, Melissa plans to work as an Elementary Education teacher in South Carolina.
Katie Smeilus
Katie Smeilus is a History major and an Early Childhood Education major with a concentration in Teaching Students with Disabilities at William Paterson University. Having graduated in Fall 2021 with Summa Cum Laude academic honors, Katie currently works as a Second Grade teacher in the Vernon School District in New Jersey.
Anthony Finnen
Anthony Finnen is a Communications major with a concentration in Media Productions, a History minor, and a Performing and Literary Arts Honors Program minor at William Paterson University. After graduating in Spring 2022, Anthony plans to work in the film industry.
Essay: “Evaluating Korea’s Colonial Period”
Fazli Hida is a History major and a Humanities Honors Program minor at William Paterson University. He is a member of the Hawthorne Historical Society. Fazli plans to pursue a Master’s degree in Library and Information Sciences and a career as librarian.
Griffin Leary
Essay: “James Connolly’s Life and Legacy”
Griffin Leary is a History major, a Linguistics minor, and a Humanities Honors Program minor at William Paterson University. Griffin plans to pursue a Juris Doctor degree in law school and afterwards a career as a union-side labor attorney.
Jacqueline Antonette Messina
Jacqueline Antonette Messina is a History major, Elementary Education (Middle School Endorsement) major, and a Teaching of Students with Disabilities minor at William Paterson University. Jacqueline graduated in Fall 2020 with Summa Cum Laude academic honors. She is also an inductee into the Tau Sigma National Honor Society for transfer students and the Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society in Education. Jacqueline currently works as a 4th Grade Teacher at Rockaway Township Public School in New Jersey.
Robert Ian Elfers
Robert Ian Elfers is a History major at William Paterson University. He is an inductee into the Phi Alpha Theta National History Honor Society. After graduating in Spring 2021, Robert plans to become a High School Teacher of History/Social Studies in New Jersey.
Victoria Cecelia Lipari
Victoria Cecelia Lipari is a History major, Elementary Education (Middle School Endorsement) major, and a Teaching of Students with Disabilities minor at William Paterson University. Victoria graduated in Fall 2020 with Summa Cum Laude academic honors. She is also an inductee into the Phi Alpha Theta National History Honor Society. Victoria plans to become Teacher of Middle Social Studies or Elementary Education in New Jersey.
William J. Mioduszewski
William J. Mioduszewski is a Political Science major and History minor at William Paterson University. William graduated in Fall 2020. He is also an inductee into the Phi Alpha Theta National History Honor Society. William plans to pursue a career in public service and is currently applying for positions at United States Congressional offices and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).
Maxwell JohnsonEssay: "Concerning Interwar (1918-1939) Transnationalism: Germany, China, Japan"
Maxwell Johnson is a History major, a Philosophy minor, and student in the Humanities Honors Program at William Paterson University. He is an inductee in the Phi Alpha Theta National History Honor Society. Maxwell plans to pursue a PhD in History or a JD in Law.
Abigail Taylor Jones
Abigail Taylor Jones is a double major History and Asian Studies (in the Japanese Language track), as well as a student in the Honors College (in the Humanities track) at William Paterson University. After graduation, her plans include attending graduate school to study contemporary Japanese cultural history.
Paul Michael Joseph Doumanis
Paul Michael Joseph Doumanis is a double major in History and Secondary Education at William Paterson University. He was accepted into the Japanese Exchange Teaching (JET) Program and will spend the 2020-2021 academic year teaching English in Japan to public school students.
Awarded to an academically outstanding, graduating History major who is also pursuing a degree in Elementary or Secondary Education (2 recipients for 2019-2020).
Monica Chigozie Ama
Monica Chigozie Ama is a double major in History and Early Childhood Education (with special emphasis on Teaching Students with Disabilities) at William Paterson University. She has accepted a job offer to teach at Saint Michael’s Junior Day Nursery in Paterson, New Jersey.
Serena Pearson
Serena Pearson is a double major in History and Elementary Education (with special emphasis on Teaching Students with Disabilities), as well as a student in the Honors College (in the Cognitive Science track) at William Paterson University. After graduation, her plans include becoming an elementary education teacher.
David Hunter
David Hunter is a double major in History and Secondary Education, minor in American Studies, as well as a student in the Honors College (in the Humanities track) at William Paterson University. After graduation, his plans include becoming a secondary education teacher.
Pooja PatelEssay: "Chinese Migrants to the U.S.:1882-1965"
Pooja Patel is a triple major in Management, Marketing, and Economics, a minor in History, as well as a student in the Honors College (in the Business track) at William Paterson University. She will graduate in May 2021 and plans to attend law school.
No Inductees
