Honors Convocation 2021 | Page 10

President ’ s Scholar Award
The Presidential medal is awarded to a full-time undergraduate whose academic record is superior , and who participates in and contributes to the university community . The choice of the recipient for the President ’ s Scholar Award is reserved for the President of the University .
Recipient : Jessica Azzarano Bachelor of Science in Biology
Jessica Azzarano is graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Biology degree with minors in chemistry , mathematics , and microbiology . Not only is she graduating with a 4.0 GPA , but also with extensive research experience . During the summer after her first year at GMercyU , she conducted research at Cabrini University as part of the SEA-PHAGES Program . The following summer , Jess began conducting research with Dr . Stacey Lettini on the microbial species that comprise the microbiome of fish in the neighboring Trewellyn Creek . She has presented her findings at the SEPCHE Honors Conference and the GMercyU Research Conference , and is preparing her findings in two manuscripts for possible publication .
When she is not in class or working on her research , Jessica ’ s most prominent role on campus has been as a Biology , Chemistry , Mathematics , and Physics tutor for the Academic Resource Center ( ARC ). Jessica has also been an E-STEM Scholar since her freshman year , exhibiting leadership as a peer mentor .
Jessica is committed to service . An active member of the Student Association of Science ( SAS ), she has been one of the driving forces behind the organization ’ s various fundraising efforts and actively involved in Science Day at Hobbit House . Other notable projects include the Philly CureHD Walk campus event , activities benefiting Mercy Focus on Haiti , and the butterfly garden being established on campus to support the Mercy for Monarchs initiative . In her personal time , she supports various cancer charities as a tribute to her father , who passed away due to cancer before she started high school .