Indiana State University is proud to recognize the recipients of several distinguished student awards, including the Rankin Distinguished Senior Award and the Daniel J. Bradley Medal for Leadership, Scholarship, and Service. These honors celebrate Sycamore students who have demonstrated excellence in academics, leadership, and service to both the University and the broader community.
“The Rankin Distinguished Senior Award and Daniel J. Bradley Medal represent some of the highest ideals of Indiana State University: academic excellence, principled leadership, and service beyond oneself,” said Indiana State University President Mike Godard. “This year’s recipients have not only distinguished themselves in the classroom but have strengthened our campus and community through their character, commitment, and example. They embody the very best of the Sycamore spirit, and I am proud to celebrate their accomplishments as they prepare to carry Indiana State’s mission forward in the next chapter of their lives.”
“It’s inspiring to see our students living our mission of learning, discovery, and engagement—while balancing academics, social life, and leadership roles,” said Indiana State University Interim Provost Brad Balch. “The skills they’ve developed at Indiana State will serve them well as they pursue the next steps in their journey. Congratulations to each honoree on this outstanding achievement.”
The Rankin Distinguished Senior Award
Named in honor of Indiana State’s seventh president, Dr. Alan C. Rankin, the Rankin Distinguished Senior Award recognizes outstanding members of the senior class who have made meaningful contributions to campus life at Indiana State University. Presented by the Indiana State University Alumni Association, the award honors students who have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership, and service throughout their time at the University.
Recipients must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.00 and demonstrate active involvement and leadership in campus organizations and the community.
The 2026 Rankin Distinguished Senior Award recipients are:
- Krisyon Mahayla Capshaw, Kinesiology, Martinsville, Indiana
- Lakshit Chaudhary, Computer Science, Zirakpur, Punjab, India
- Sophia Rose Greenwood, Music Liberal Arts, Santa Claus, Indiana
- Jaylen M. May, Business Administration, St. Louis, Missouri
- Hannah Catherine Natschke, Finance, Danville, Indiana
- Kaylee Anne Prewitt, Political Science, Plainfield, Indiana
- Hallie Marie Rue, Psychology, Jasper, Indiana
- Keyona Amani Young, Applied Medicine, Terre Haute, Indiana
Daniel J. Bradley Medal for Leadership, Scholarship, and Service
One of Indiana State University’s highest student honors, the Daniel J. Bradley Medal for Leadership, Scholarship, and Service is awarded to a graduating senior who has distinguished themselves through academic excellence, leadership, and service.
Recipients must maintain a cumulative grade point average of 3.00 or higher, demonstrate a sustained commitment to community service and experiential learning, and hold multiple long-term leadership roles at the University or within the community.
The 2026 Daniel J. Bradley Medal recipient is:
- Piper Delaney Watkins, Digital Communication and Media and Public Relations, Mooresville, Indiana
The students honored with these awards exemplify Indiana State University’s commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and service. They will be recognized during Indiana State University’s Spring 2026 commencement exercises.
For more information about commencement, visit indianastate.edu/commencement.