Each year, the college’s top graduating seniors are recognized for their outstanding achievements at an awards ceremony attended by friends, family, mentors and donors. This year’s graduating senior and university award recipients were honored for their academic excellence, commitment to fostering community, service to campus and their peers and for exceptional research efforts. 

Philanthropy makes the college’s top undergraduate awards possible. Generous contributions from alumni, parents and friends to the CBS annual fund, Dean’s Circle, and endowments support programs and opportunities, ensuring excellence in teaching, research and the student experience. 

This year’s recipients, who were formally recognized on Saturday, June 1 for their accomplishments, reflect the diverse and passionate student body that makes the College of Biological Sciences—and UC Davis—a remarkable place to learn and grow. 

Meet this year’s award recipients: 

Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Research—Dean Keith Simonton Prize

Alexandra Serna Godoy
Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior 

Alexandra Serna Godoy’s research focuses on the impact of social stress on neural circuits that govern behavior, using monogamous California mice (Peromyscus californicus) as models. She investigates how social stress influences oxytocin-producing cells and their role in social avoidance and vigilance. Her work revealed that stress increases the activity of oxytocin neurons, contributing to these behaviors. Godoy successfully executed the first single nucleus sequencing experiment on the Paraventricular Nucleus (PVN) of these mice, identifying genetic profiles linked to stress response. Her findings may inform better treatments and improve the quality of life for individuals experiencing stress-related mental health disorders.

“Alexandra’s remarkable achievements in scientific research, including published work, independent project management, and exemplary dedication, embody the UC Davis ethos. She is enthusiastic, her excitement is contagious, and I have no doubt that she will continue to grow as an outstanding scientist.” — Brian Trainor, professor, Department of Psychology 

The UC Davis Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Research—Dean Keith Simonton Prize recognizes outstanding undergraduate research contributions and aims to encourage and acknowledge the rigorous academic efforts and innovative research conducted by students. 

V. Glenn Winslow Jr. Award

Andrew Tran
Biological Sciences

Andrew Tran is a dedicated UC Davis student committed to supporting underserved communities and fostering an environment of respect and inclusivity. Volunteering at the Knights Landing One Health Center, he has worked on enrolling patients in health insurance and ensuring respectful, culturally competent care. As a co-chair for the clinic's referrals committee, Tran developed streamlined protocols to improve patient access to resources. Additionally, he tutors organic chemistry at the Academic Assistance and Tutoring Center, helping students overcome academic challenges. He aspires to create a society where everyone feels comfortable sharing their unique stories. Tran also received the 2024 UC Davis Civic Engagement Undergraduate Award, which recognizes dedicated service that improves the lives of others in innovative ways. 

"Andrew’s dedication to serving the underserved population in the Knights Landing Community is commendable. His tireless efforts to improve our referrals system and enhance patient care demonstrate his commitment to socially responsible and ethical leadership." — Brenden N. Tu, M. D., M. S., UC Davis Student Health and Wellness Center

The Veloyce Glenn Winslow Jr. Award honors the graduating man believed to be the most outstanding in the areas of leadership, scholarship, integrity and service in the university community.

Rost Family Biology K-12 Education Scholarship 

Akanksha Pabari 
Molecular and Medical Microbiology

Akanksha Pabari’s research focused on maternal nutrition and infant health through metabolomics. To this end, she led a project on the impact of maternal BMI on breast milk composition. Beyond research, Pabari's campus involvement included serving as an Aggie Public Health Ambassador, an Organic Chemistry tutor, and Vice President of the American Society for Microbiology Club. Her tutoring experience ignited her passion for teaching. Starting summer 2024, she will pursue her Master's in Education at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, after which she aims to become a licensed high school chemistry teacher and advocate for STEM and nutrition education.

"As an undergraduate in my lab, Akanksha demonstrated exceptional dedication, meticulousness, and a strong work ethic. She is one of the most dedicated, and hard-working undergraduate students I have ever worked with.” — Carolyn Slupsky, professor, Departments of Nutrition, and Food Science and Technology

The Rost Family Trust Biology K-12 Education Scholarship supports undergraduate students who promote biology education in K-12 settings. This scholarship aims to recognize and support students who are dedicated to inspiring and educating future generations in the field of biology. 

Ronald and Lydia Baskin Research Award 

Anna Kolesov
Biomedical Engineering

Anna Kolesov’s research focused on the development of a sensitive and non-invasive diagnostic platform for early-stage ovarian cancer detection. Her project aimed to synthesize a novel Raman-active nanoprobe that binds to cancer-associated extracellular vesicles in blood samples. Her work involves the synthesis of a 50nm gold core nanoparticle with a Raman-active tag and silica shell, enhancing stability and adhesive properties. She has utilized electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and the Zetasizer to analyze her results. Kolesov has presented her findings at UC Davis and national conferences, showcasing her dedication to advancing cancer diagnostics.

“Anna is an intelligent, hard-working, and caring young researcher, poised to thrive in her bright future, with a proven track record of research innovation and the kind of interdisciplinary insight that signals the hallmark of an emerging leader.” — Randy Carney, Department of Biomedical Engineering

Anthony Weidner
Molecular and Medical Microbiology; Computer Science

Anthony Weidner embarked on a project during the COVID-19 pandemic to explore the intersection of biology and computer science. He utilized bioinformatics to analyze protein expression levels in COVID-19 patients compared to controls, identifying 29 differentially expressed genes related to symptoms like loss of smell. Weidner implemented novel data processing techniques and statistical analyses to manage large datasets and validate findings, generating comprehensive visualizations and insights into COVID-19's impact on the human body. His interdisciplinary approach bridges biology and computer science, contributing to ongoing research efforts in the field. 

“Anthony is a quick learner, an outstanding mentor, and an exceptional student. He contributed significantly to the COVID research in my lab. I can confidently say that he is among the top undergraduates I have mentored.” — Qizhi Gong, Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy

The Ronald and Lydia Baskin Research Award is given to undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional research achievements in recognition of their contributions to advancing knowledge and understanding in their respective fields. 

College of Biological Sciences Undergraduate of the Year

Kyle Elshoff
Evolution, Ecology and Biodiversity

Kyle Elshoff began his studies at UC Davis with the goal of obtaining a B.S. in Entomology, a passion he nurtured since sixth grade. He took entomology courses, creating artwork on declining monarch butterfly populations and studying bee behavior. Before transitioning to the evolution, ecology, and biodiversity major in winter 2023, Elshoff completed an insect biology minor and explored diverse courses, including “Latin American Social Revolutions” and “Literature of California.”

As a University Honors Program student, Elshoff pursued an honors thesis in Freshwater Ecology, analyzing macroinvertebrate communities above and below the Putah Diversion Dam, research that he will share at upcoming conferences. Elshoff is also an active member of the Davis Rewilding Society, which organizes native plant gardens, educational events, and fundraising initiatives, where he served as an event coordinator and later co-president. His achievements extend beyond academics and research; he has contributed to the university’s Prized Writing anthology, and has also been recognized for his outstanding engagement in courses like “Stream Ecology.” 

“Kyle is the type of person that I love to have in my classes. He's engaged, thoughtful, creative and dedicated. I've been so fortunate to see firsthand how much he gives to his work and to his colleagues at UC Davis. Whatever he chooses to do after graduation, I'm certain he will excel at.” — Laci Gerhart, Associate Professor of Teaching, Department of Evolution and Ecology

Neha Gondra
Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior

Neha Gondra has maintained a strong academic record, regularly earning a place on the quarterly Dean's Honor List. Her passion for medical research is evident in her work at the UC Davis Health Center, where she contributes to clinical studies in surgical medicine. Gondra has taken a leadership role in several research projects, including studies on telemedicine for chronic vascular wounds and hyperkinetic biliary dyskinesia. She has presented her findings at the Undergraduate Research Conference and the Surgical Endoscopy Conference, showcasing her dedication to advancing medical knowledge.

Beyond research, Gondra is committed to her community and peers, serving as an Education Officer for student research assistants in the Department of Surgery's RESURG program. She has developed and implemented training programs in clinical research practices and professional development, fostering the next generation of researchers. She has also served as an EMT and coordinator with Health 34, where she provided vital crisis response and healthcare services to the campus community. She also volunteers at the Imani student-run clinic and Yolo Cares Hospice, which are a reflection of her commitment to improving healthcare access and outcomes for underserved populations.

“Neha has been involved extensively in her community. She is passionate about community health and health education. Neha has a great positive, professional attitude and possesses many great attributes that will allow her to succeed in any endeavor she pursues.” — Ozcan Gulacar, Associate Professor of Teaching, Department of Chemistry

The College of Biological Sciences Undergraduate of the Year Award is a prestigious recognition that honors students who have demonstrated exceptional academic performance, leadership, research, and service within the biological sciences.

College of Biological Sciences Medal 

Carmina Alves
Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior

Carmina Alves discovered her interest in research during a first-year seminar, where she was introduced to epilepsy research. Her curiosity about childhood neurodevelopment led her to join the Development of Externalizing and Self-Control (DESC) Lab in Fall 2021. There, she contributed to various projects, including the Gift Delay and California Babies Project (CBP), where she scored child behavior and analyzed family visit data. She also led training sessions for new RAs and presented research findings at the Undergraduate Research Scholarship and Creative Activities Conference (URSCAC).

Alves expanded her research experience by studying cardiovascular and nervous system interactions. In this role, she conducted molecular biology experiments and contributed to publications examining vascular diseases and dementia. Outside the lab, she is deeply committed to community service, and volunteered at the Imani Clinic and with Friends of Children with Special Needs (FCSN). Her work with FCSN includes tutoring neurodiverse middle school students, such as her mentee Sophia, whom she has supported in academics and cross-country athletics. She plans to pursue a career as a physician-scientist specializing in pediatrics.

“Throughout her time in my lab, Carmina distinguished herself from her peers by demonstrating a remarkable work ethic, tremendous growth in her research acumen, impressive leadership skills, and an openness to taking on new challenges and responsibilities. I have no doubt she will continue to succeed on her path to becoming a physician.” — Daniel Choe, Associate Professor, Department of Human Ecology

The College of Biological Sciences medal is the college’s highest honor. It is awarded to an outstanding graduating senior in recognition of significant contributions to the college community and potential for future success in the biological sciences.