The accomplishments of 2020 Penn State Schuylkill biology graduate James Abicunas read like those of many other high-achieving students. He was a member of the Honors Program, a student-athlete, a merit scholarship winner, a student researcher, and more. But in 2019, Abicunas faced serious medical issues, including undergoing a liver transplant, yet fought to stay on track with his studies and graduate as planned.
In just four short years, Matthew Williams has earned three degrees from Penn State. During that time, he has studied abroad in Spain; represented Penn State Schuylkill at THON™; tutored droves of students; and showed himself his true potential. Triumph over adversity has fueled Williams’ Penn State story as he conquered addiction and navigated his mother’s cancer diagnosis and treatment. As Williams looks to his bright future, he reflects on all the ways Penn State helped him realize the way forward, sharing his story in the hopes that it inspires others to take the lead in their own stories, as well.
In just four short years, Matthew Williams has earned three degrees from Penn State. During that time, he has studied abroad in Spain; represented Penn State Schuylkill at THON; tutored droves of students; and showed himself his true potential. Triumph over adversity has fueled Williams’ Penn State story as he conquered addiction and navigated his mother’s cancer diagnosis and treatment. As Williams looks to his bright future, he reflects on all the ways Penn State helped him realize the way forward, sharing his story in the hopes that it inspires others to take the lead in their own stories, as well.
During her time on campus, Armani Jefferson has distinguished herself as a valuable student member of the residence life team in Student Affairs. Those who know her describe Jefferson as the kind of person everyone can count on: someone who will always show up, and with a smile. This spring Jefferson received the Student Life Outstanding Service and Leadership Award, for excellence in service and leadership to the campus community and local, national, and global communities.
