University of Indianapolis Honors College News
Paige Oliver’s Global Impact on Sustainable Agriculture
Paige Oliver (Biology, Chemistry ’00), an alumna of the UIndy Honors College, began her college journey planning for a career in physical therapy, but the encouragement of her professors and an internship experience set her on a new path in research and sustainable agriculture. Over the past two decades, she has held leadership roles around the world, shaping innovative, environmentally responsible farming practices. Now as Global R&D Sustainability Program Lead at Corteva, she works to improve food security while supporting local agriculture through community initiatives.
Dr. Candice Burkett Named 2025 Honors Mentor of the Year
Dr. Candice Burkett, Assistant Professor of Psychology, was named the 2025 Honors Mentor of the Year for her exceptional dedication to student development and mentoring. Known for her leadership in the Study of Cognition Contradictions and Misconceptions at UIndy, Dr. Burkett was praised for her individualized mentorship, dedication to student success, and ability to build a strong academic community.
Read Full Story: Dr. Candice Burkett Named 2025 Honors Mentor of the Year
Laura Allende Castilla Earns 2025 Honors Student of the Year
Laura Allende Castilla (Business Administration and Management & International Relations ’25) was honored as the 2025 Honors Student of the Year for her strong academic record, leadership as an international student-athlete, and meaningful contributions to the Honors community. Her research on global awareness among UIndy students reflects her commitment to thoughtful, impactful scholarship.
Read Full Story: Laura Allende Castilla Named 2025 Honors Student of the Year
Jonathan Kelly ’25 Finds His Path in Lacrosse, Law and Leadership
Jonathan Kelly (Political Science’25) combined his passions for law, politics, and lacrosse to shape a dynamic college experience. Initially drawn to UIndy for its lacrosse program and supportive community, he excelled not only as a student-athlete but a campus leader, being the President of the Pre-Law Student Association and UIndy’s SAAC representative. Additionally, his Honors thesis, focused on prosecutorial behavior during election years, earned him state and national recognition.
Read Full Story: Where Passion Meets Purpose: Jonathan Kelly’s UIndy Experience in Lacrosse, Law, and Leadership
From UIndy to the Yucatán: Diana Jimenez ’25 Earns NSF Research Opportunity
Diana Jimenez (Earth-Space Science’25) was selected for a prestigious National Science Foundation. She conducted research on heavy metal contamination in groundwater in the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico, combining environmental science with a focus on environmental justice. This experience helped her build real-world skills and confirmed her desire to continue studying geochemistry and environmental justice.
Taylor Vachon Published in Undergraduate Research Journal
Taylor Vachon (History, Political Science, International Relations’23, and MBA’25) had her Honors thesis published in the Butler’s Journal of Undergraduate Research. The study explores how political stereotypes shape perceptions and deepen division in the U.S. This notable achievement reflects the high academic standards of UIndy’s Honors students.
Read Full Story: Taylor Vachon Published in Butler Journal of Undergraduate Research
Dr. Jim Williams Featured on The Great Courses Plus
Dr. Jim Williams, Dean of the Strain Honors College and professor of history, was recently featured on Great Courses Plus with a pilot episode titled “Alaric the Goth and the Sack of Rome.” He is the first UIndy faculty member to appear on the platform, showcasing the quality of teaching we have on our campus.
Read Full Story: UIndy Professor Jim Williams Hosts Episode for Great Courses Plus
Honors Student Discovers Potential New Species in Vietnam
Jackson Hoover (Biology’25) traveled to Vietnam for his Honors project, investigating a potentially new species of cave fish. Guided by Associate Professor of Biology Dean Wiseman, the project combined field research with cultural exploration. Their findings could lead to a published study and species conservation efforts.
Read Full Story: ‘Welcome to the Jungle:’ Honors student explores cave system as part of honors project
A New Home for UIndy Honors College
The Honors College will soon relocate from Esch Hall to a renovated house on the southeast side of campus, providing a fresh environment to match the program’s growth.
Read Full Story: Honors College will move from Esch Hall to the former Greyhound Club Office
Laura and Ron Strain Donate $6 Million to Honors College
The Ron and Laura Strain Honors College at the University of Indianapolis received a $6 million endowment from Laura Strain, honoring her late husband Ron Strain. This gift will support enriching student experiences like research projects and international travel. The Honors College plans to use the funds strategically to enhance academic opportunities, helping students pursue graduate programs and competitive careers.
Read Full Story: Laura Strain donates $6 Million to Honors College
UIndy Honors College Shines at Mid-East Honors Association Conference 2023
The Ron and Laura Strain Honors College at won the top three poster awards at the 2023 MEHA Conference, co-hosted by UIndy and Ivy Tech. With 22 student presenters, the most of any institution, UIndy showcased its growing honors program and leadership. Dr. James Williams praised the students’ diverse research and noted a 450% increase in honors graduates over eight years, highlighting the college’s commitment to academic excellence and future impact.
Read Full Story: UIndy Sets Records at Mid-East Honor Association Conference
Megan Copeland Wins Top Communication Scholarship
Megan Copeland (Communication and Political Science ’23) won the Top Scholarship in Communication at the at the 41st Annual Indiana Forensics (IFA) Individual Events Championship. Her award-winning paper on political communication and social media highlights her interdisciplinary research.
Read Full Story: Honors College Student Wins State Scholarship Award at Speech and Debate Tournament