Students Recognized for Academic Excellence Across Multiple Programs
Several students have recently achieved significant academic recognition across various educational institutions, highlighting their dedication and excellence in their respective fields.
University Honors Program Welcomes Record Number of Students
Sophie Mercer, a forensic science major from Santa Clarita, has been admitted to the prestigious University Honors Program at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Mercer is among a record-setting cohort of **739 students**, marking a **15% increase** from the previous record class in **2019**. Admission to the honors program requires students to demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
Tamy Burnett, Director of Operations for the honors program, expressed enthusiasm about the new cohort, stating, “Through their high school achievements, these students have demonstrated a high level of potential, both inside and outside of the classroom. We are excited to welcome this outstanding group of scholars and leaders, and we look forward to all that they will accomplish during their time at the university.”
Academic Achievements at Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) has also recognized numerous students from the local area for their academic accomplishments during the **summer 2025** semester. Students achieving a minimum grade-point average of **3.7** are named to the president’s list, while those with a GPA between **3.5** and **3.699** are honored on the dean’s list.
The following local students earned a place on the president’s list:
– Kenneth Goodstein, of Acton
– Mel Gregory Sarcauga, of Santa Clarita
– Dejon Spiller, of Santa Clarita
– Isabel Mendoza, of Santa Clarita
– Anthony Ashcroft, of Canyon Country
– James Borg, of Castaic
– Hung Nguyen, of Valencia
– Brandy Coontz, of Valencia
– Caleb Andersen, of Valencia
– Diana Tuazon, of Valencia
– Corey Lollar, of Santa Clarita
– Georgina Luna, of Santa Clarita
– Keiwanna Chatters, of Santa Clarita
Students achieving the dean’s list include:
– Luciana Stearns, of Santa Clarita
– Anthony Bath, of Canyon Country
– David Lopez, of Valencia
– Anita Lukacevic, of Valencia
SNHU, a private, nonprofit institution with a **92-year** history, serves over **200,000** learners globally, offering around **200** undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs both online and on its campus in **Manchester, New Hampshire**.
Hofstra Celebrates Nursing Students
Additionally, Piper Lief from Valencia was honored during a pinning ceremony held on **September 29, 2025**, at the Hofstra Northwell School of Nursing and Physician Assistant Studies. This event celebrated the undergraduate nursing class of **2027**, marking their transition from classroom learning to clinical practice.
The Hofstra Northwell School of Nursing is situated on the Hofstra University campus in **Hempstead, New York**, and offers comprehensive programs and state-of-the-art facilities, including a full medical/surgical simulation wing and multiple clinical labs.
These recognitions reflect the hard work and dedication of students across various educational backgrounds, underscoring their commitment to academic excellence and future professional contributions.
