Each member of the College of Arts and Science class of 2026 followed different paths across disciplines, research labs, creative spaces, and global classrooms — and each found experiences that shaped who they are and where they’re headed next.
Among the undergraduates receiving an Arts and Science degree, the first names to be read during the April 16 ceremonies will be those of the student marshals who lead the procession of Mizzou leadership, A&S faculty, and others into Mizzou Arena: Jordan Meininger, Lancing Moore, and Jasmine Morales will lead the 3:30 p.m. procession and TJ Benoist, Reagan Coffman, and Louisa Lehmann will lead the procession at the 6 p.m. ceremony.
Once the procession is seated, two members of the class of 2026 will address their classmates from the podium: Joe Hess, graduating with English and Psychological Sciences degrees, will give remarks at the 3:30 p.m. ceremony. Connor Everhart, graduating with Political Science and Economics degrees, will give remarks at the 6 p.m. ceremony.
The marshals and student speakers share recognition as outstanding students with the following group of their classmates recommended by faculty members and mentors.
Major: Architectural Studies
Construction Management; Engineering Sustainability minors
Sustainability certificate
Jorge Cabrera‑Ramirez
Favorite Mizzou Memory:
Since my freshman year I have been involved in Mizzou Architecture and Design, the Architectural Studies Department's main student organization. Since my sophomore year, I’ve worked as a designer research assistant for the Missouri Prison Transformation Project in collaboration with the Missouri Department of Corrections where we've helped improve prison conditions and improve both inmate and staff well-being by redesigning prison wings across four of Missouri's prisons to help create a more humane environment.
Shoutout:
Rabia Faizan, assistant professor of architectural studies, gave me the opportunity to be a part of her research team and allowed me to experience an aspect of design I never imagined I would have.
What’s Next?
Head into the workforce and work towards acquiring my master's and architecture licensure.
Major: German; International Studies with East Asian Studies emphasis
Korean; Political Studies minors
Multicultural Studies certificate
Marina Danae Crouch
Favorite Mizzou Memory:
My experiences traveling abroad and participating in Mizzou's German Club and the Korean Student Association have been amazing. I had never traveled out of the country (or even to large cities before!), so to step foot in Seoul, South Korea, all by myself was one of the best feelings I could ever describe. I loved my time at Jeonnam University in Gwangju, and desperately miss my friends who I not only met in South Korea, but here at Mizzou, too. The following year, I was able to go to Germany and examine world history on the real stage. I was able to learn so much and further my studies, and by the end of it, I felt so accomplished.
Shoutout:
I can never express how grateful I am to Dr. Seth Howes and Megan McKinstry…They know your name, what you do, what you're interested in, and they don't forget. Most of all, they care for their students, in and out of their education. I can never thank them enough for everything they've done for me.
What’s Next?
After I graduate, I will further my education in the graduate program at Mizzou, getting my Master of Arts in German.
Major: Mathematics; Physics with an emphasis in Astronomy
Harrison Davison
Favorite Mizzou Memory:
I have enjoyed participating in undergraduate biophysics research in two labs. Some of my projects included ice lithography, the formation of supported lipid bilayers, and simulations of RNA co-transcriptional folding.
Favorite A&S Memory:
My favorite A&S memories come from participating in the physics and astronomy clubs. I particularly enjoyed visiting Fermilab and Argonne National Lab. I also enjoyed stargazing in the Columbia area.
What’s Next?
I will begin my PhD in physics next fall
Major: Physics, with an emphasis in Astronomy
Mathematics; Religious Studies minors
Multicultural Studies certificate
Mathieux Harper
Favorite Mizzou Memory:
I’ve been involved in undergraduate research since my freshman year, working alongside a fantastic advisor and a wonderful group of undergraduate and graduate students. I conducted research at the Niels Bohr Institute in Copenhagen, Denmark. I’ve also served as a Tiger Tutor and teaching assistant.
Shoutout:
Dr. Haojing Yan, my undergraduate research advisor of four years, is one of the busiest people that I have ever met, and yet he still finds the time to be incredibly caring. He’s a phenomenal teacher who puts great effort into his classes, is very motivating, and holds the students in his group accountable. I am a better researcher, student, teacher, and person due to his leadership.
What’s Next?
I will pursue my PhD in Astrophysics, focusing on active supermassive black holes and their impact on their host galaxies. I hope to continue learning through my research for many decades while encouraging the next generation of students to find, pursue, and become obsessed with their true passion.
Major: Music, voice emphasis
Journalism, strategic communication emphasis
Multicultural Studies certificate
Kampbell Hemeyer
Favorite A&S Memory:
My favorite Arts and Science memory is traveling to Italy with the University Singers choir to perform on tour. We spent over a week performing in historic basilicas for the communities of Venice, Florence, Rome, and Assisi. It was an incredible out-of-body experience to perform in such historic and beautiful locations, sharing the music of Mizzou with the world. However, getting to do so with the friends I've made through choir who've become more like family was the most amazing part of the entire experience.
Shoutout:
I want to give a shoutout to Lauren Hynes. As my advisor, she has been more than supportive and helpful throughout my college experience, always reaching out to offer help and opportunities for my future. Dr. Peter Lea has also played a massive role in my success in the School of Music. His support not only of my music degree as my professor but of my other degree through research has been immense. Peter is always advocating for his students and for their success.
What’s Next?
I've accepted a position as an Oscar Mayer Spokesperson or "Hotdogger" and will be travelling the country driving the Weinermobile for a year.
Major: Music Education
Creative Writing minor
Multicultural Studies certificate
Maggie Howell
Favorite A&S Memory:
My favorite A&S memory has been participating in Marching Mizzou. Being a member has given me so many opportunities to travel and meet people. One of my favorite moments was conducting our “Hamilton” halftime show last fall. Never in a million years did I expect to have a Lin-Manuel Miranda cameo in a marching show that I conducted, but now I can say that I did that. I loved hearing how excited the student section was for that show and hearing so many people tell me that it was one of their favorites. That is a moment I'll never forget.
What’s Next?
I plan to get a job teaching middle or high school band in Missouri.
Major: Economics; Biochemistry
Andrew Kaprich
Favorite A&S Memory:
One of my favorite A&S memories has been serving as a Peer Learning Assistant (PLA) for the Principles of Macroeconomics. As a PLA, I have gained new valuable skills and insight into what it’s like to teach, plan, and facilitate learning at the collegiate level. Working with Dr. George Chikhladze and his associates, Dr. Neal McCane and graduate teaching instructor Raadhika Paul, has been an especially rewarding experience that has helped me prepare for my future graduate studies.
Shoutout:
I would like to give a shoutout to Dr. Tabitha Chikhladze, assistant teaching professor in the Department of Economics. Dr. Chikhladze helped me discover my passion for economics and has continued to help provide me with guidance, encouragement, and opportunities to share my interests with a larger audience. Since fall 2025, she has served as the advisor for my departmental honors thesis in economics where I am researching antiretroviral therapy and its effects on life expectancy. Her mentorship has played an important role in my academic growth and future aspirations.
What’s Next?
After graduation, I plan to pursue a master's degree in either economics or applied economics while also working fulltime. In the long-term future, I hope to pursue a PhD in Economics and ultimately become a professor.
Major: Political Science, pre‑law emphasis
Spanish minor
Madeline Malena
Favorite Mizzou Memory:
My best Mizzou experience, by far, was being able to participate in the Spanish Language, Literature, and Culture study abroad program last summer in the city of Oviedo in Asturias, Spain—it was an amazing opportunity to travel, meet new people, and experience life in a different part of the world!
Favorite A&S Memory:
My favorite A&S memories have been made on the fourth floor of Jesse Hall with the Kinder Institute on Constitutional Democracy. Whether it was being involved in the Freshman Interest Group, being a Democracy Lab Fellow, or even just working on homework up there, the people and opportunities I have encountered have truly made my time at Mizzou more memorable.
Shoutout:
My shoutout is to Kelly Schultz with the Truman School of Government and Public Affairs. She has been such an amazing resource for not only myself, but for so many others as well, and it is evident that she truly cares about the students she is supporting on campus.
What’s Next?
After graduation, I plan to attend Mizzou’s School of Law to earn my JD.
Major: English; Spanish
Women’s & Gender Studies minor
Multicultural Studies; Writing Intensive certificates
Rylee Proudfit
Favorite A&S Memory:
My favorite A&S memory is taking WGST 4188W, an English and Gender Studies class about Emily Dickinson's portrayal in media. This was such a fun class to take. All our discussions were so interesting and I learned to love poetry throughout the course.
Shoutout:
Mary Moore, our English major advisor, was a huge help each semester in planning my schedule and keeping me on track to graduate! She also did a great job of letting me know about opportunities such as the departmental honors program and new, exciting classes being offered.
What’s Next?
I plan to move back to Kansas City and find a job working in either marketing or copywriting!
Major: Mathematics; Statistics
Accountancy minor
Sports Analytics certificate
Owen Ramelb
Favorite A&S Memory:
Earlier this semester, I traveled to Chicago to represent the University of Missouri at a Mizzou: Countdown event. I talked to many high school seniors who had committed to attending Mizzou, as well as juniors who were interested in applying. It was amazing to hear from the next generation of college students while also answering any questions they had about Mizzou!
Shoutout:
Dr. Matthew McIntosh is a one-of-a-kind professor who is highly knowledgeable in statistics and deeply committed to student success. I appreciate Dr. Matt for everything he has done for me!
What’s Next?
I have accepted a return offer to join Pacific Life as an Actuarial Analyst in Newport Beach, California!
Major: Geography, emphasis in Geographic Information Sciences
French; Public Health minors
Geographic Information Science certificate
Rachel Riley
Favorite A&S Memory:
I’ve enjoyed being able to choose from such a diverse range of classes in A&S. One semester, I enrolled in a biostatistics class as an elective, which taught me helpful skills for my research and class projects in geography and public health. During one class period, we toured the equine hospital on campus to learn more about animal research, which was a very fun and unexpected adventure.
Shoutout:
Dr. Doug Hurt has had an immense influence on me during my time at Mizzou. He is a great professor who makes geographic topics feel relevant to everyone. He is also the advisor for Geography Club and Gamma Theta Upsilon, so I have worked with him behind the scenes to ensure that meetings and events run smoothly. In this way, he is incredibly generous with his time and his willingness to create a fun and welcoming environment for students.
What’s Next?
I will be returning to Kansas City to work as an Assistant GIS Specialist on the Environmental Services team at Burns & McDonnell.
Major: Architectural Studies, interior design emphasis
Entrepreneurship and Innovation minor
Regan Shaffer
Favorite Mizzou Memory:
I have so many experiences from my time as an undergraduate student – finishing studio projects with all the other architectural studies students until the middle of the night, working with some of my best friends at MizzouRec, and making my Mizzou experience my own! I will always be thankful to Mizzou for providing me the space to grow and learn not only in the classroom but personally as well.
Favorite A&S Memory:
My favorite A&S memory is the Chancellor's Art Showcase; I had the opportunity to present in my junior year!! I enjoyed networking and seeing all the other students’ hard work.
Shoutout:
Shoutout to Assistant Teaching Professor Kate Stockton, the most supportive and deserving person.
What’s Next?
I am attending Oklahoma State University as a competitive sports graduate assistant where I’ll pursue my master's degree in business administration.
Major: French; Linguistics
English; Italian minors
Multicultural Studies certificate
Lorinn Waisner
Favorite A&S Memory:
It’s nearly impossible to decide on a single favorite A&S memory, but one that would be high on my list is my experience staying with a host family in Antibes, France, during a faculty‑led study abroad program. I gained so much from this experience, and it was truly transformative for my academic journey and personal advancement.
Shoutout:
Dr. Carla Cornette, my faculty mentor and Italian associate teaching professor, has been a vital influence on my undergraduate experience and education. Aside from being an outstanding language instructor, she has provided me with formative opportunities for conducting research and presenting at conferences, as well as given me very thoughtful guidance on my academic path following graduation. She is also responsible for passionately introducing me to the amazing world of studying Italian language and culture.
What’s Next?
Immediately following graduation, I will work as the teaching assistant for Dr. Cornette's study abroad program in Sicily. I will also work with Dr. Cornette on developing our research paper into an article, which we presented at the Italian American Studies Association at Montclair State University in November 2025. After this, I plan to attend graduate school and continue my language studies in French and Italian.
Major: Biological Sciences, emphasis in Medical Science & Human Biology; Romance Languages, emphasis in Spanish
Health Science minor
Ethical Theory & Practice; Honors; Multicultural Studies certificates
Kaitlyn Walters
Favorite A&S Memory:
My favorite A&S memory was during my study abroad experience in Oviedo, Spain, when I realized I could truly connect with others in Spanish. One moment that stands out was during a conversation with my host family at dinner, where I was able to fully express my thoughts, ask questions, and engage in meaningful dialogue without hesitation. What once felt like a classroom exercise had become real, and I felt a sense of confidence and belonging I had never experienced.
Shoutout:
Dr. Mamadou Badiane has been one of the most influential mentors of my undergraduate experience at Mizzou. From my first Spanish class with him, I felt the inclusive and encouraging environment he creates. He encouraged me to venture beyond my comfort zone. Dr. Badiane’s impact extends far beyond the classroom. He has shaped my worldview and inspired my goal to pursue medical Spanish so I can better serve Spanish‑speaking communities. He showed me that language is not just a skill but a bridge to trust, connection, and equitable care.
What’s Next?
After graduation, I plan to apply to medical school while continuing to strengthen my academic and clinical foundation. I intend to take graduate‑level coursework in medical Spanish and public health while also working as a nurse tech at the hospital. Ultimately, I aspire to care for underserved Spanish‑speaking communities and help bridge gaps in access to equitable and compassionate healthcare.