2026 Senior Honors Banquet
The 2026 banquet was held May 12 at the Manhattan Conference Center. A total of $158,970 in scholarships were presented to the senior students as listed below. Several special awards were presented to faculty, house officers and staff.
Scholarships
ACVIM Clinical Excellence Award
Is for a student who has demonstrated a sincere interest in large animal internal medicine and outstanding didactic and clinical expertise in internal medicine that emulates the mission of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.
Awarded to:
Riley Rux
Presented by Dr. Emily Reppert
American Academy of Veterinary Dermatology
Is for a student who has demonstrated excellence in clinical dermatology.
Awarded to:
Astrid Carcamo-Tzic
Presented by Dr. Mary Bagladi-Swanson
Dr. James T. Marsh Memorial Award
Is awarded to a student for demonstrated proficiency in equine theriogenology.
Awarded to:
Kiernan Fallows
Presented by Dr. Meghan McCarthy
Excellence in Small Animal Internal Medicine
Is given to a fourth-year student who has exhibited an interest and proficiency in internal medicine including small animal endocrinology.
Awarded to:
Caleb Hildebrand
Presented by Dr. Thomas Schermehorn
Douglas Hoppas Memorial Award
Is given to a student for demonstrated professionalism and leadership. The recipient of this award is a Kansas resident.
Awarded to:
Kristina Powell
Presented by Dr. Chris Blevins
Dr. James W., Terry D. and Michael J. Carpenter Family Excellence Award
Is given to a student who exhibits academic excellence, clinical proficiency, and a passion for zoological medicine.
Awarded to:
Alyssa Schorn
Presented by Dr. James Carpenter
American College of Veterinary Surgeons Large Animal Award
Is for academic and clinical proficiency in large animal surgery and aptitude and interest in surgery.
Awarded to:
Amanda Bolinger
Presented by Dr. Haileigh Avellar
ACVIM Clinical Excellence Award
Presented to two students who have a sincere interest in small animal internal medicine and outstanding didactic and clinical expertise in internal medicine that emulates the mission of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.
Awarded to:
Lucy Schermerhorn and Andrew McNassor (not pictured)
Presented by Dr. Emily Reppert
Chris Gruber Memorial Scholarship in Veterinary Medicine
Is presented to a student interested in practicing mixed animal medicine in a rural area. Chris Gruber was the Senior Director of Development for the College of Veterinary Medicine from 2006 – 2013. He tragically died in a plane crash in April 2013. His wife, Kai Gruber, and their son, Ethan, were in attendance.
Awarded to:
Lauren Fleming
Presented by Kai, Abigail and Aiden Gruber
Dr. and Mrs. Nelson S. Mayo Memorial Food Animal Award
Is presented to a student for demonstrated proficiency in food animal medicine and surgery.
Awarded to:
Levi Gauby and Thomas Christensen II
Presented by Dr. Emily Reppert
Dr. and Mrs. Nelson S. Mayo Memorial Exotic Animal Award
Is awarded to a student for demonstrated proficiency in zoo and exotic animal medicine and surgery.
Awarded to:
Greta Karwath
Presented by Dr. James Carpenter
The Stethoscope Sponsorship Award
Stethoscopes were donated by Dr. Rachel Garner to be given to two fourth-year students.
Awarded to:
Gabriella Lorino and Morgan Dutton
Presented by Dr. Callie Rost
Dr. Sheila Dodson Compassionate Care Award
Presented to a graduating senior who has demonstrated compassion for animals and their owners, and who has an interest in integrative medicine.
Awarded to:
Amy Finn (not pictured)
Presented by Dr. Sheila Dodson, Skip and Brenda Gast
Francis Lucille Koss Memorial Award
Is given to an outstanding student in the graduating class.
Awarded to:
Scotney Reichenberger
Presented by Dr. Matt Basel
Dr. F.P. and Jane Moynagh Award
Is awarded to a student who has demonstrated interest in practice management.
Awarded to:
Ashley Kragelund, Kaden Strom and Tessa Flournoy
Presented by Dr. Chris Blevins
American College of Veterinary Surgeons Small Animal Award
Is presented to a student for academic and clinical proficiency in small animal surgery and aptitude and interest in surgery.
Awarded to:
Payton Pierce
Presented by Dr. David Upchurch
Dr. Harry D. and Alberta F. Anthony Award
Is presented to a student interested in feedlot medicine, specifically in bovine or swine medicine. Dr. Anthony was a former Director of the Diagnostic Laboratory at Kansas State University.
Awarded to:
Caleb Hildebrand
Presented by Dr. Mike Apley
Dr. Jody Johnson Veterinary Medical Leadership Award
Is presented to a student who has demonstrated leadership in the graduating class. Dr. Johnson hopes that the recipient will continue to give of their time and talents as they demonstrate leadership in organized veterinary medicine and in the community in which they serve. Dr. Jody Johnson was in attendance.
Awarded to:
Maura Porter
Presented by Dr. Jody Johnson
Dr. James and Terry Carpenter Scholarship in Excellence in Zoo, Wildlife and/or exotics
Is given to a student who excels in zoo, wildlife and/or exotic animal medicine.
Awarded to:
Aubrey Gauntt
Presented by Dr. James Carpenter
American College of Veterinary Radiology Award
Is given to a student with enthusiasm for and understanding of diagnostic and therapeutic radiology.
Awarded to:
Lillian Van De Weghe
Presented by Dr. Mackenzie Hallman
Dr. Jerry Rains Memorial Award
Is presented to a student who has demonstrated a sincere interest in either beef cattle production medicine or equine reproductive physiology.
Awarded to:
Ivy Elkins
Presented by Dr. Chris Blevins
Dr. Michael and Catherine Whitehair Senior Award for Excellence in Achievement of Dual Degrees of DVM and MPH
Is presented to a fourth-year student obtaining dual Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and Master of Public Health degrees in the College of Veterinary Medicine.
Awarded to:
Elizabeth Scarbough
Presented by Dr. Michael Whitehair
Richard and Irene Hain Scholarship in Veterinary Medicine
Given to two outstanding students who plan to practice small animal medicine.
Awarded to:
Kylie Acebedo and Haley Cuba
Presented by Dr. Neala Boyer
Dr. Les and Amy Pelfrey Senior Award
This award is presented to fourth-year students enrolled in the College of Veterinary Medicine who plan to practice in a community in Kansas with a population of less than 10,000.
Awarded to:
Caleb Hildebrand, Colben Dodson, Samantha Trimble and James Schneider
Presented by Dr. Bob Larson
Dr. Kathryn Morton Krista Equine Veterinary Award
Is given to a student interested in pursuing a career in equine medicine.
Awarded to:
Reaghan Jokovich
Presented by Dr. Meghan McCarthy
Dr. Kenneth Harkin Excellence in Veterinary Medicine – Vanier Family Scholarship
Is given by an alumnus in honor of Dr. Ken Harkin for his continued mentorship of current and former students, and for always answering the call for continued scholarship and excellence in Veterinary Medicine. This award is given to a student who excels in their demonstration of skills and client relations.
Awarded to:
Caleb Brezina
Presented by Dr. Ken Harkin
Dr. Kenneth R. Kimbell Memorial Scholarship
Is presented to a student who plans to practice in companion animal private practice after graduation must be a Kansas resident and have at least a 3.0 GPA.
Awarded to:
Sean Mulvhill (unable to attend and is not pictured)
Dr. Don Spangler Memorial Award
Goes to a student who has demonstrated the principles of veterinary ethics, advanced the image of KSU and the College of Veterinary Medicine and is active in the Student Chapter of the American Veterinary Medical Association.
Awarded to:
Greta Karwath
Presented by Dr. Kristen Hill-Thimmesch
Dr. L. Derald and Mary Ellen Jernigan Award
Is given to a student with enthusiasm, determination to achieve, and sensitivity to the needs of others, and an interest in large animal medicine.
Dr. Tom and Diane Jernigan were in attendance.– Tom is the son of Dr. L. Derald and Mary Ellen Jernigan.
Awarded to:
Lauren Fleming
Presented by Dr. Tom Jernigan
Dr. A.D. and Nadine Apley Veterinary Scholarship
Is presented to a student with a desire to practice mixed animal medicine in a rural Kansas community.
Awarded to:
Grace Gregg
Presented by Dr. Mike Apley
Dr. Wayne and Druecillia Burch Memorial Award
Is awarded to five students with a professional goal of entering some phase of veterinary medicine dealing with Food Animal Production Medicine. All of these students are in the top 50% of their class.
Awarded to:
Charles Wassberg, Kenzie Jones Dierks, Kristina Powell, Kylynn Mallen, Madalynn Martin, Samantha Trimble and Serena Schotanus
Presented by Dr. Matt Miesner
Dr. John and Mary Jo Cortelyou Rust Award
Is given to two students for demonstrated proficiency in pharmacology and physiology.
Awarded to:
Reaghan Jokovich and Riley Rux
Presented by Dr. Bruce Schultz
ACVP Excellence in Clinical Pathology
Is presented to a student who has demonstrated proficiency in Clinical pathology.
Awarded to:
Ashley Krageland and Danny Rosen
Presented by Dr. Lisa Pohlman
Dr. O.M. Franklin Memorial Epidemiology and Public Health Award
Is given to a student who has demonstrated proficiency in epidemiology and public health.
Awarded to:
Milan Black
Presented by Dr. Bob Larson
Dr. O.M. Franklin Memorial Toxicology Award
Is given to a student who has demonstrated proficiency in toxicology.
Awarded to:
Trinity Pfaff
Presented by Dr. Mike Apley
Dr. O.M. Franklin Memorial Theriogenology Award
Is presented to a student who has demonstrated proficiency in theriogenology.
Awarded to:
Serena Schotanus
Presented by Dr. Laurie Beard
Dr. R.R. and Karen Domer Award
Is given to a student pursuing a career in large animal practice.
Awarded to:
Colben Dodson
Presented by Dr. Chris Blevins
Stephen White Scholarship
Is presented to a Kansas student who has an interest in practicing small animal medicine and shows integrity, compassion and professionalism towards clients, patients and colleagues.
Awarded to:
Ashley Shandy
Presented by Dr. Thomas Schermerhorn
Excellence in Dermatology
Is given to a student who has exhibited interest and enthusiasm for veterinary dermatology, and who has exhibited above-average proficiency in the diagnosis and management of dermatological conditions.
Awarded to:
Faith Stapleton (unable to attend and not pictured)
Excellence in Equine Sports Medicine
Is given to a student who has exhibited above-average proficiency in the diagnosis and management of equine sports medicine, rehabilitation and lameness disorders.
Awarded to:
Amber Eggenberger
Presented by Dr. Meghan McCarthy
Dr. Bishan Das and Ram Bai Minocha Memorial Award
Is awarded to a student in good academic standing and has maintained an interest in virology. Dr. Bishan Das Minocha was in the Army for 35 years, serving as a Sgt. Major while his duties were many, he served during the time of WW II.
Awarded to:
Danny Rosen
Presented by Ved Minocha (first photo) and Drs. Pam and Nirav Shastri (second photo)
The Paul and Phyllis Curd Memorial Awards
This award is presented to six students with an emphasis in small animal medicine.
Awarded to:
Ashley Kragelund, Gabrielle McGee, Annie Harris, Greta Karwath, and Kylie Acebedo
Presented by Dr. Thomas Schermerhorn
Dr. Ruthanne Chun Oncology Scholarship
Is awarded to a student with an interest in oncology.
Awarded to:
Bonnie Tompkins
Presented by Dr. Chieko Azuma
Dr. Tom and Shirley Knappenberger Scholarship in Veterinary Medicine
Is given to a student from one of the following Kansas counties: Johnson, Miami or Reno. Dr. Todd Knappenberger was in attendance. He is the son of Dr. Tom and Shirley Knappenberger.
Awarded to:
Carter Claxton
Presented by Dr. Todd Gunderson
Excellence in Anesthesia Award
Presented to a student with exemplary clinical performance in anesthesia.
Awarded to:
Faith McDonald
Presented by Dr. Michell Gonzalez
Feline VMA Outstanding Senior Award
Is awarded to a graduating senior recognized by the College of Veterinary Medicine as a leader in the study of feline health. This Includes a recent grad membership to the Feline VMA.
Awarded to:
Chloe Capodagil-Sherrill
Presented by Dr. Susan Nelson
Chester Peterson Jr. Small Animal Research Scholarship
This student will be attending post-graduate training to obtain either a master's or Ph.D. with the goal of conducting small animal research.
Awarded to:
Maura Porter
Presented by Chester Peterson Jr.
Nestle Purina Award for Excellence in Small Animal Nutrition
For fourth-year students enrolled in the College of Veterinary Medicine who excel in small animal nutrition
Awarded to:
Ivy Elkins, Kiernan Fallows, Jayme Williams, Grace Gregg and Andrew McNassor
Presented by Dr. Derek Mosier
Society for Theriogenology - Proficiency in Theriogenology Award
Is awarded to a student for illustrated proficiency in clinical theriogenology.
Awarded to:
Marit Wang
Presented by Dr. Bob Larson
The Rodney K. Morgan Memorial Award
Is awarded to a student demonstrating proficiency in clinical pathology
Awarded to:
Ashley Kragelund
Presented by Dr. Lisa Pohlman
Abbott Animal Health Veterinary Emergency Critical Care Society Award
Awarded to a student who has demonstrated extraordinary commitment and exceptional proficiency in caring for emergency and critical care patients (regardless of species). A special consideration is given to students who have been active and productive members of the local chapter of the Student Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society.
Awarded to:
Greta Karwath
Presented by Dr. Stacy McHaney
Kansas City Veterinary Medical Association Award
Is given to an exemplary student practicing in the Kansas City area. 2025 KCVMA Board Member Dr. Christi Belew was in attendance.
Awarded to:
Abigail Perkins
Presented by Dr. Stephanie Bonnette 
Dr. Glenn Ray Teagarden Memorial Award
Is presented to a student who is outstanding in equine medicine.
Awarded to:
Reaghan Jokovich
Presented by Dr. Laurie Beard
Veterinary Cancer Society Student Award - Bob Rosenthal Senior Student Award
Is presented to a student for outstanding aptitude for, and competence in, the diagnosis, treatment and general care of companion animals affected by malignant disease.
Awarded to:
Makenzie Horn
Presented by Dr. Mary Lynn Higginbotham 
Mellenthin-Chapman Award
Is awarded to a student for their demonstrated interest in the area of shelter medicine.
Awarded to:
Elizabeth Scarbough, Chloe Capodagli-Sherrill and Danny Rosen
Presented by Dr. Cody Dressler
Jimmy the Cat Award
Established by Mike Luce, who worked for Kansas State University for over 30 years. He was a security guard for the College of Veterinary Medicine when he passed away in 2007. Luce established this award to help graduating students with the end of the year expenses such as moving, fees for licenses, and board examinations.
Awarded to:
Alyssa Nelson, Hannah White, Elizabeth Jorgenson, Taylor Chin and Jordan Flynt
Dr. Richard and Pam DeBowes Professional Leadership Award
Is given to a student who has demonstrated leadership.
Awarded to:
Ashley Kragelund
Kind Touch Award
Is awarded to a student for demonstrated abilities in relating to clients and patients. The recipients of this award are selected by the senior class.
Awarded to:
Danielle Gibbs
Alvin A. Lidolph Award
Is given to a top student in the fourth year of the professional curriculum of the College of Veterinary Medicine.
Awarded to:
Riley Rux
Merck Veterinary Manual Award
These are presented to students who are on the Honors List because of their high academic achievement.
Awarded to:
Elayna Anderson, Amanda Bolinger, Reaghan Jokovich, Ashley Kragelund, Gabrielle Maroulis, Faith McDonald, Andrew McNassor, Danielle Perkon, Riley Rux and Samantha Trimble. (no picture available)
Pet Tribute Awards
Pet Tribute Student Awards
Presented to students who have demonstrated compassion and professionalism in support of clients who have suffered the loss of a pet.
Awarded to:
Faith McDonald and Samuel Moore (not pictured)
Pet Tribute Faculty Award
The Pet Tribute Faculty Award provides graduating seniors an opportunity to honor a faculty member who distinguishes themselves through their exceptional role modeling as a compassionate caregiver and healthcare professional.
Individuals selected for this award are positive role models for students throughout the college. They epitomize not only professional competence and effectiveness, but they also possess and demonstrate excellence in compassion, sensitivity and empathy in their care of patients and their communication with pet guardians.
Pet Tribute Faculty Award recipients are known for their communication skills and sensitivity with humans and animals alike, especially when terminal illnesses or euthanasia are involved.
Awarded to:
Drs. Anri Celliers and Emily Klocke (both were unable to attend and are not pictured)
Pet Tribute House Officer Awards
The 2025 Pet Tribute House officer award is presented to two house officers to acknowledge excellence in teaching, clinical service, clinical proficiency and professionalism. The awards are determined by a vote of the senior class.
Awarded to:
Dr. Matthew Aviles and Dr. Madison Dunlap
Pet Tribute Veterinary Technician Award
The Pet Tribute Award winner for veterinary nurse is presented to a technician demonstrating excellence in compassion, sensitivity and empathy while caring for patients. The award is determined by a vote of the senior class.
Awarded to:
Dennys Calvillo
Veterinary Certificates
The concurrent Certificate programs provide an opportunity for students to receive recognition for their completion of core or elective courses and co-curricular experiences in specific professional areas, and the Certificate identifies their additional training focus to potential employers or graduate supervisors.
Exotic Animal / Zoological Medicine Veterinary Certificate
Presented to students who have completed the elective requirements for the Exotic Animal/Zoological Medicine Veterinary Certificate.
First row: Madeline Myrick, Alyssa Schorn, Natalie Walters, Hannah White and Jayme Williams
Second row: Gabrielle McGee, Aubrey Gauntt, Samantha Waddell and Dr. Gretel Tovar
Third row: Greta Karwath, Dr. James Carpenter and Ariana Van Pelt.
Not pictured: Amy Finn
Equine Veterinary Practice Certificate
Presented to students who have completed the elective requirements for the Equine Veterinary Practice Certificate.
Front row (kneeling): Dr. Chris Blevin and Luis Zavala.
Back row: Amanda Bolinger, Morgan Dutton, Amber Eggenberger, Kiernan Fallows, Reaghan Jokovich, Marit Wang, Stephanie Severson, Kaden Strom and Lillian Van De Weghe,
Food Animal Veterinary Certificate
Presented to students who have completed the elective requirements for the Food Animal Certificate.
Back row: Charles Wassberg, Thomas Christensen II, Carter Claxton, Colben Dodson , Levi Gauby, Caleb Hildebrand, Chance Kopsa and Dr. Matt Miesner
Front row: Dr. Emily Reppert, Milan Black, Ivy Elkins, Madalynn Martin, Kenzie Jones Dierks, Kylynn Mallen, Alyssa Nelson, Samantha Trimble and Emily Schumacher.
Not pictured: Kimberly Achilles and Ryann Allison
Shelter Medicine Veterinary Certificate
Presented to students who have completed the elective requirements for the Shelter Medicine Certificate.
Front row (kneeling): Dr. Cody Dressler
Middle row: Jessica Burger, Madison Lathem, Gabrielle Maroulis, Rayanna Otterholt and Elizabeth Scarbrough.
Back row: Chloe Sherrill, Taylor Chin, Danielle Gibbs, Mackenzie Horn, Ashley Kragelund and Daniel Rosen.
Not pictured: Christinea Wagner
Sustainability Veterinary Certificate
Presented to students who have completed the elective requirements for the Sustainability Certificate.
Awarded to:
Carrie George (was unable to attend and is not pictured)
Faculty Recognition and Awards
Zoetis Distinguished Veterinary Teaching Award
At each of the veterinary colleges throughout the United States each year since 1963, the Zoetis Distinguished Veterinary Teaching Award has been presented to an outstanding teacher who advances the veterinary profession by inspiring students to their highest levels of achievement and professionalism.
Awarded to:
Dr. Scott Fritz, clinical assistant professor of toxicology
Presented by Dr. James Roush
Dr. William and Deanna Pritchard Veterinary Service and Outreach Award
The Dr. William and Deanna Pritchard Veterinary Service and Outreach Award was established in 2012 to emphasize the importance of service and outreach in the veterinary profession. Dr. Pritchard, a 1946 K-State DVM alumnus and a 1987 K-State CVM Alumni Fellow, is a professor and dean emeritus of the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of California at Davis.
The primary aim of the Pritchard Service and Outreach award is to recognize an individual that has demonstrated considerable efforts in the areas of service and outreach.
Awarded to:
Dr. Brad White, professor of production medicine and director of the Beef Cattle Institute
Presented by Dr. Elizabeth Davis
SAVMA 2026 Champion of Student Wellbeing Award
The Student American Veterinary Medical Association Student Wellbeing Award recognizes a faculty or staff member who goes above and beyond to support and promote student wellbeing within the college community.
This award honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional care, compassion, and advocacy for students by fostering an environment that supports mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing.
Recipients are recognized for their dedication to helping students feel supported, valued, and empowered during the challenges of veterinary medical education.
Awarded to:
Dr. Lisa Pohlman
Presented by Jimena Kilian.
AAVC Annual Faculty Achievement in Teaching Award
The American Association of Veterinary Clinicians Award recognizes faculty members who have demonstrated outstanding dedication to academic veterinary medicine through excellence in teaching, leadership in clinical or institutional practice, and meaningful service to organized veterinary medicine.
Recipients of this award are recognized for their lasting contributions to veterinary education, their commitment to advancing the profession, and their leadership within professional veterinary organizations.
This award honors individuals whose impact extends beyond the classroom and clinic through mentorship, innovation, professional service, and a sustained commitment to excellence in veterinary medicine.
Presented in recognition of his outstanding contributions to academic veterinary medicine, excellence in teaching, and dedicated service to the veterinary profession through leadership and involvement in organized veterinary medicine.
Awarded to:
Dr. Ken Harkin
