WSU Global Campus Chancellor’s Awards 2026 Honors Outstanding Student Leaders
Washington State University Global Campus recently hosted its annual Chancellor’s Awards ceremony virtually on Zoom, bringing together students, faculty, and staff to recognize outstanding leadership, service, and academic achievement across its online community.
The event highlighted the remarkable accomplishments of students who balance coursework with careers, caregiving, and community involvement—demonstrating the resilience and spirit that define the Global Campus experience.
Global Campus Chancellor Dave Cillay praised the award recipients, emphasizing both their individual achievements and their broader impact on others. “We need strong leaders, and we need you to step up,” Cillay said. “It’s not just an award for you—others see what you’ve done and think, ‘That could be me.’”
These awards recognize students across several categories, each honoring a unique form of impact—from community advocacy to academic perseverance.
The 2026 Award Winners
Community Outreach Award: April Gascon-Stricker
The Community Outreach Award honors students who actively strengthen their communities through advocacy and service. April Gascon-Stricker was recognized for her extensive work supporting refugees and immigrant families.
Her efforts include volunteering with organizations such as the International Rescue Committee, Spokane Pride, and the NAACP, organizing community activities, assisting with interpretation services, and helping families navigate school systems, appointments, and essential resources. She has also served on a rapid response team supporting families in crisis and contributed to World Refugee Day initiatives.
Campus Belonging Award: Susana Naranjo-Pelayo
This award celebrates students who foster inclusion, collaboration, and a welcoming environment within the campus community. As a student ambassador and leader in the WSU Global LGBTQ+ Club, Susana Naranjo-Pelayo has helped create spaces where students feel safe, supported, and valued.
“Belonging is something we build together through care, respect, and intentional action,” Naranjo-Pelayo said while accepting her award. “I’ve always hoped to help others feel seen and valued.”
Campus Involvement Award: Denisse Jimenez Gomez
Recognizing active engagement and leadership in campus life, the Campus Involvement Award was presented to Denisse Jimenez Gomez. A longtime student ambassador, she has led multiple student organizations, including the First-Generation Student Club and the Cougar Wellbeing Collective, creating supportive spaces for connection and growth.
She is known for consistently showing up for events, mentoring peers, and fostering a sense of belonging across the Global Campus community.
“I’m incredibly honored… these spaces have shaped who I am today,” Jimenez Gomez said. “They’ve given me a sense of community, purpose, and growth.”
Crimson and Gray Award: Sarah Orosco
The Crimson and Gray Award highlights academic excellence, perseverance, and innovation. Sarah Orosco’s journey stood out for her resilience and determination.
A data analytics student, Orosco balanced coursework with work, caregiving responsibilities, and leadership roles while contributing to a capstone project analyzing youth behavioral health access in partnership with a community organization. Her work is expected to support continued research and real-world impact.
“This award is a reminder that setbacks don’t define us—what matters is what we do next,” Orosco shared. “I wanted to prove to myself that I was capable of more.”
President’s Award for Leadership: Aunjelique Andersen
The highest honor of the ceremony, the President’s Award for Leadership, recognizes exceptional impact across the university and community. Aunjelique Andersen was selected for her extraordinary leadership, service, and perseverance.
As a student ambassador and founder of the Cougs & Cubs Club, she has created opportunities for students balancing academics and family responsibilities. Her community service includes coordinating partnerships that generated significant donations for youth organizations and supporting nonprofits such as the Boys & Girls Club.
“My journey hasn’t been without challenges… but I’ve always been committed to serving my community,” Andersen said. “WSU helped me grow into a more engaged student and community member.”
A Celebration of Resilience and Community
Throughout the ceremony, a common theme emerged: the power of community and the determination of students who continue to lead, serve, and succeed despite demanding circumstances. From creating inclusive spaces to overcoming personal and academic obstacles, each award recipient exemplifies the mission and values of WSU Global Campus.
As the event concluded, attendees reflected not only on individual achievements but also on the collective strength of the Global Campus community—one that continues to uplift, inspire, and empower its students to make a lasting impact.
About the Author
Emily Oliva is the Assistant Director of Digital Content for WSU Global Campus, with over a decade of experience in higher education marketing. She loves telling student stories and highlighting the journeys behind the degrees. She’s currently based in Miami, Florida—very far from Washington State, but fully committed to the Cougs.