Albany State celebrates more than 1,000 scholars on Honors Day

ALBANY – Albany State University honored more than 1,000 students for their academic achievement at the 2025 Honors Day ceremony at the ASU West Campus Arena. The event, coordinated by Velma Fudge Grant Honors Program Director Florence Lyons and Coordinator Kimberly Whiters, recognized undergraduate students from all disciplines for their excellence in coursework and research, reflecting the theme “Honoring Excellence in Academic Achievement.”

Keynote speaker Juana Parillon, a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran and Conflict Resolution Consultant, shared empowering lessons from her time in the Marine Corps and the leadership of her late grandmother. She encouraged the audience to embrace their legacy and rise above any challenges.

“You are the future,” Parillon told students. “It’s going to be difficult, challenging, but none of that matters, because you are the legacy. And as legacies, we never run from a challenge. There’s no win or lose, there’s only win or learn. Know that what is yours is yours, and no one can interfere with or interrupt your blessings.”

She concluded her address with a powerful call to action.

“The next time someone questions who you are through their words or their actions, remind them, with your absolute brilliance, that you are the legacy,” Parillon said. “Don’t let anyone, not even yourself, instill fear or doubt in your heart.”

The event included award ceremonies honoring student achievements. One standout honoree was Ella Okoro, a senior computer science major, who received multiple awards, including the University System of Georgia Academic Recognition Day Outstanding Scholar award, the College of Arts and Sciences Dean’s award, and the Highest Ranked Senior in Computer Science. Additional Dean’s Award recipients included Irene Christian (Criminal Justice) and Trenton Justice (Marketing) from the College of Business, Education, and Professional Studies, as well as Gabrielle Melnick (Diagnostic Medical Sonography) from the Darton College of Health Professions.

The event concluded with a motivational message from interim President Lawrence Drake II.

“Learning does not end after an event,” Drake said. “Treat every conversation as a classroom. Every moment that you have to engage with someone is a time to learn, reflect, and be inspired. Those are the moments that change the trajectory of your life.”