Students in the Meg O’Connell Social Justice & Community Impact Scholars Program marked the culmination of a year defined by purpose and service during an April 24 celebration in Coulter Hall.
Each student was honored individually for the impact they made, receiving a certificate and a green commencement cord that will stand as a visible symbol of their commitment to making a difference.
Attendees included Eric Allyn, whose $1 million gift to OCC in 2022 started the program, which is named in honor of his wife, Meg O'Connell. Students also heard remarks from Interim Provost Dr. Agatha Awuah, and Director of Civic Engagement Nira Irby.
The 2025-2026 scholars are:
- Maksym Cherevatyi
- Claire Detor
- Joshua Dominguez
- Simon Gharakhanzadeh
- Nahomy Gomez
- Irielle Mwija
- Alicia Oberlender
- McKenzie Picciano
- Jasmine Rodriguez-Gutierrez
- Seren Stvan
- Stephania Werchinski
During spring break, the students spent a week immersed in hands-on service projects across Puerto Rico. The trip, and their year-long involvement with the program, had a lasting effect on them.
Alicia Oberlender - "I had an incredible time being a Meg Scholar and having the opportunity to go to Puerto Rico. It was definitely a once in a lifetime experience and it was amazing. We worked so well as a group each day and got so much accomplished, and it really showed me just what we're capable of when we put in the effort. We got to see local communities and actually be a part of something, and that is something I will always carry with me!"
Irielle Mwija - "I learned that working with others becomes much easier and more meaningful when you give yourself the chance to open up. I learned that everyone brings something different, and when we share our strengths, the work becomes lighter and the experience becomes richer."
Maksym Cherevatyi - "I had an amazing experience on the Puerto Rico trip, and I am very grateful for this opportunity. It was great to experience a different culture, connect with students from other colleges, and do meaningful service work. It inspired me to get more involved in similar service activities in Oswego."
Congratulations to each of this year's Meg O'Connell Scholars!
