Spartan Academic Excellence Gala Celebrates Student-Athletes
4/15/2025 10:35:00 AM | General
EAST LANSING, Mich. – Michigan State's Student-Athlete Support Services (SASS) recognized the academic success of Spartan student-athletes during the 28th annual Spartan Academic Excellence Gala on Monday evening at the Breslin Center.
To qualify for the academic gala, student-athletes must be in at least their third semester at MSU and have obtained a minimum 3.00 cumulative grade point average (GPA) or have earned a 3.00 or higher GPA during the 2024 calendar year. Graduates are recognized as well.
Hall of Fame men's basketball head coach Tom Izzo, the 2024-25 Big Ten Coach of the Year who tied a Big Ten record with his 11th regular-season Big Ten title this past season, was the keynote speaker at the event.
PRESIDENT'S AWARD
Presented to the male and female student-athlete with the highest cumulative grade point average in the Athletic Department who is a senior in their final year of eligibility and has participated in at least four seasons with their team.
Jillian Bonczewski, Field Hockey
Jillian Bonczewski exemplifies what it means to be a student-athlete at Michigan State University. Her dedication to excellence is evident by her perfect 4.0 GPA, earning her three Big Ten Distinguished Scholar and Academic All-Big Ten honors. She has also been recognized as a four-time National Field Hockey Coaches Association Scholar of Distinction and a member of the NFHCA National Academic Squad. Bonczewski's leadership extends beyond the field as she currently serves as the President of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and holds leadership roles within the Big Ten Student-Athlete Issues Committee and MSU's Athletic Council. Upon graduation, Bonczewski will begin her career as an elementary school teacher.
Justina Gaynor, Women's Soccer
Justina Gaynor is a standout student-athlete who has excelled academically and athletically at MSU. With a perfect 4.0 GPA, she has earned the Big Ten Distinguished Scholar and Academic All-Big Ten three times, as well as 2023 College Sports Communicators First Team Academic All-America honors. Equally impressive, Gaynor was named to the 2024 United Soccer Coaches (USC) All-America Third Team, won the 2023-24 Big Ten Conference Medal of Honor, and was recognized as a three-time USC All-Region selection for her athletic achievements. She also demonstrates leadership off the field, serving as a representative on the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and being part of the Student-Athlete Welfare Subcommittee. Her commitment to excellence extends to her involvement in several community initiatives, including the Red Cross Blood Drive, Student-Athlete Food Drive, and Be the Match Promotion. Gaynor currently plays in the National Women's Soccer League for the Chicago Stars.
Valadian Pallett, Women's Track and Field
An accomplished student-athlete, Valadian Pallett has demonstrated excellence both academically and athletically throughout her collegiate career. Double majoring in genomics and molecular genetics and human biology, she maintains a perfect 4.0 GPA and has earned a place on the Dean's List every semester. A two-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree and Big Ten Distinguished Scholar, her academic excellence has been widely recognized, including receiving the Women's Track & Field Scholar-Athlete Award two times and being named to the 2023 USTFCCCA All-Academic Team. A two-year letterwinner, Pallett has also made her mark in competition, being named a Big Ten Track and Field Athlete of the Week during the 2024 season, exemplifying her dedication to success in both academics and athletics. Pallett plans to attend medical school upon graduation.
Tyler Pritchett, Men's Track and Field
With a 3.99 grade-point average, Tyler Pritchett has proven to be a dedicated student-athlete. Double majoring in computer science and applied engineering sciences with a concentration in supply chain management, he has earned a spot on the Dean's List every semester and is a three-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree in track and field and four-time in cross country. A three-time Big Ten Distinguished Scholar, his academic achievements have been recognized throughout his collegiate career including being a member of the 2024 USTFCCCA All-Academic Team. Upon graduation, Pritchett will begin his professional career at Dow as an IT Analyst.
ATHLETIC DIRECTOR'S AWARD
Presented to the male and female team with the highest cumulative grade point average after the Fall 2024 Semester.
Women's Golf (3.82 GPA)
Led by head coach Stacy Slobodnik-Stoll, the women's golf team continues to redefine excellence, both academically and athletically. A perennial NCAA Championship qualifier, the program has clinched the Athletic Director's Award an impressive 12 times, surpassing all other women's teams.
Men's Soccer (3.62 GPA)
Under the direction of head coach Damon Rensing, the men's soccer team claimed the Athletic Director's Award by posting a 3.62 team cumulative grade point average in the fall semester. It marks the third time the men's soccer program has won the award under Rensing.
GWENDOLYN NORRELL COMMUNITY SERVICE & LEADERSHIP AWARD
Presented to the student-athlete who has demonstrated the highest level of commitment to impacting the areas of leadership and community service.
Jillian Bonczewski, Field Hockey
Passionate about education, leadership, and service, Jillian Bonczewski has made the most of her collegiate experience while excelling as a student-athlete. As an elementary education major with a minor in Spanish, she has maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA, earning Dean's List honors every semester. A three-time Big Ten Distinguished Scholar and Academic All-Big Ten honoree, she was also recognized as the 2024 Auto-Owners Insurance Champion in the Classroom for her dedication to academic excellence, in addition to winning this year's President's Award. Beyond the classroom, Bonczewski has embraced leadership roles as the 2024-25 President of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and Secretary of the Big Ten Student-Athlete Issues Committee, using her voice to advocate for her peers. Her passion for service is evident through her involvement in community initiatives such as the MSU Athletics/Red Cross Blood Drive, Teams for Toys, and March is Reading Month. Whether excelling in academics, leading her teammates, or serving her community, Bonczewski continues to make a meaningful impact in all she does.
DIVERSITY & LEADERSHIP AWARD
Presented to a student-athlete who exhibits strong leadership in diversity initiatives within athletics, on campus, and in the community.
Skyla Schulte, Gymnastics
Skyla Schulte has made a significant impact across multiple areas – academically, athletically, and within the community, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication. Academically, she has earned a place on the Dean's List several times and been recognized as a three-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree. Athletically, she is a four-time First Team All-Big Ten selection, a two-time NCAA Second Team All-American, and the 2024 George Alderton Female Athlete of the Year. Schulte has also played an instrumental role in leadership, serving as team captain for two seasons and as a member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). During her time at MSU, she has been instrumental in creating an environment of inclusivity. Her dedication to diversity and belonging was recognized through her nomination for the Big Ten Jackie Robinson Community & Impact Award. She also served as the intern for the inaugural Spartan Works Program, which gave high school students with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to gain experience working in MSU Athletics.
HAROLD & RAYNOR SHNIDER OFFICE OF THE PROVOST AWARD
Presented to the outstanding male and female freshman or sophomore student-athlete who embodies the characteristics promoted by Student- Athlete Support Services. Emphasis is placed on academic performance, community involvement, and leadership ability.
ISABELLA NAJERA, Women's Soccer
Isabella Najera has quickly made her mark as a standout student-athlete, demonstrating excellence in academics, athletics, and community involvement. Pursuing a degree in marketing, she has maintained a 4.0 GPA, earning her a place on the Dean's List three times, along with a spot on the 2024 Academic All-Big Ten Team. On the field, Najera has been a key contributor to her team's success, earning accolades such as 2023 Big Ten Freshman of the Year and Third-Team All-Big Ten honors. Off the field, she is an active leader as a member of the 2024-25 Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. Committed to making a difference, she participates in various service initiatives, including Teams for Toys, the Student-Athlete Food Drive, and Safe Halloween.
JORDAN HALL, Football
Jordan Hall, a rising star in both academics and athletics at MSU, is already making a significant impact as a student-athlete. A two-time varsity letterwinner and a recipient of the Dean's List honor in Spring 2023, Hall's academic and athletic achievements reflect his commitment to excellence. His passion for leadership and personal development is also showcased by his two-year involvement in the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and his attendance at the 2024 Black Student-Athlete Summit. His efforts to give back to the community reflect his dedication to making a positive impact both on and off the field. He actively participates in numerous outreach initiatives including March is Reading Month, Team Impact, and hosts an annual Youth Football Camp.
SCHOLAR-ATHLETE AWARDS
Presented to the individual from each team who is in at least their third season at MSU, has received a minimum of one varsity letter, has competed during the 2024-2025 season and while meeting these requirements, maintains the highest cumulative grade point average on their team.
BASEBALL: Gavin Sitarz
MEN'S BASKETBALL: Nick Sanders
WOMEN'S BASKETBALL: Abbey Kimball
MEN'S CROSS COUNTRY: Tyler Pritchett
WOMEN'S CROSS COUNTRY: Sophia Lucki
FIELD HOCKEY: Jillian Bonczewski & Alexa Shaffer
FOOTBALL: Sam Edwards
MEN'S GOLF: Satchel Pierce
WOMEN'S GOLF: Katie Lu
GYMNASTICS: Stephanie Lebster
HOCKEY: Tiernan Shoudy
ROWING: Elizabeth Pollion
MEN'S SOCCER: Josh Mason
WOMEN'S SOCCER: Maggie Illig
SOFTBALL: Sydney Doloszycki
MEN'S TENNIS: Ozan Baris
WOMEN'S TENNIS: Issey Purser
MEN'S TRACK & FIELD: Connor Williamson
WOMEN'S TRACK & FIELD: Valadian Pallett
VOLLEYBALL: Julia Bishop
WRESTLING: Andrew Hampton
To qualify for the academic gala, student-athletes must be in at least their third semester at MSU and have obtained a minimum 3.00 cumulative grade point average (GPA) or have earned a 3.00 or higher GPA during the 2024 calendar year. Graduates are recognized as well.
Hall of Fame men's basketball head coach Tom Izzo, the 2024-25 Big Ten Coach of the Year who tied a Big Ten record with his 11th regular-season Big Ten title this past season, was the keynote speaker at the event.
PRESIDENT'S AWARD
Presented to the male and female student-athlete with the highest cumulative grade point average in the Athletic Department who is a senior in their final year of eligibility and has participated in at least four seasons with their team.
Jillian Bonczewski, Field Hockey
Jillian Bonczewski exemplifies what it means to be a student-athlete at Michigan State University. Her dedication to excellence is evident by her perfect 4.0 GPA, earning her three Big Ten Distinguished Scholar and Academic All-Big Ten honors. She has also been recognized as a four-time National Field Hockey Coaches Association Scholar of Distinction and a member of the NFHCA National Academic Squad. Bonczewski's leadership extends beyond the field as she currently serves as the President of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and holds leadership roles within the Big Ten Student-Athlete Issues Committee and MSU's Athletic Council. Upon graduation, Bonczewski will begin her career as an elementary school teacher.
Justina Gaynor, Women's Soccer
Justina Gaynor is a standout student-athlete who has excelled academically and athletically at MSU. With a perfect 4.0 GPA, she has earned the Big Ten Distinguished Scholar and Academic All-Big Ten three times, as well as 2023 College Sports Communicators First Team Academic All-America honors. Equally impressive, Gaynor was named to the 2024 United Soccer Coaches (USC) All-America Third Team, won the 2023-24 Big Ten Conference Medal of Honor, and was recognized as a three-time USC All-Region selection for her athletic achievements. She also demonstrates leadership off the field, serving as a representative on the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and being part of the Student-Athlete Welfare Subcommittee. Her commitment to excellence extends to her involvement in several community initiatives, including the Red Cross Blood Drive, Student-Athlete Food Drive, and Be the Match Promotion. Gaynor currently plays in the National Women's Soccer League for the Chicago Stars.
Valadian Pallett, Women's Track and Field
An accomplished student-athlete, Valadian Pallett has demonstrated excellence both academically and athletically throughout her collegiate career. Double majoring in genomics and molecular genetics and human biology, she maintains a perfect 4.0 GPA and has earned a place on the Dean's List every semester. A two-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree and Big Ten Distinguished Scholar, her academic excellence has been widely recognized, including receiving the Women's Track & Field Scholar-Athlete Award two times and being named to the 2023 USTFCCCA All-Academic Team. A two-year letterwinner, Pallett has also made her mark in competition, being named a Big Ten Track and Field Athlete of the Week during the 2024 season, exemplifying her dedication to success in both academics and athletics. Pallett plans to attend medical school upon graduation.
Tyler Pritchett, Men's Track and Field
With a 3.99 grade-point average, Tyler Pritchett has proven to be a dedicated student-athlete. Double majoring in computer science and applied engineering sciences with a concentration in supply chain management, he has earned a spot on the Dean's List every semester and is a three-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree in track and field and four-time in cross country. A three-time Big Ten Distinguished Scholar, his academic achievements have been recognized throughout his collegiate career including being a member of the 2024 USTFCCCA All-Academic Team. Upon graduation, Pritchett will begin his professional career at Dow as an IT Analyst.
ATHLETIC DIRECTOR'S AWARD
Presented to the male and female team with the highest cumulative grade point average after the Fall 2024 Semester.
Women's Golf (3.82 GPA)
Led by head coach Stacy Slobodnik-Stoll, the women's golf team continues to redefine excellence, both academically and athletically. A perennial NCAA Championship qualifier, the program has clinched the Athletic Director's Award an impressive 12 times, surpassing all other women's teams.
Men's Soccer (3.62 GPA)
Under the direction of head coach Damon Rensing, the men's soccer team claimed the Athletic Director's Award by posting a 3.62 team cumulative grade point average in the fall semester. It marks the third time the men's soccer program has won the award under Rensing.
GWENDOLYN NORRELL COMMUNITY SERVICE & LEADERSHIP AWARD
Presented to the student-athlete who has demonstrated the highest level of commitment to impacting the areas of leadership and community service.
Jillian Bonczewski, Field Hockey
Passionate about education, leadership, and service, Jillian Bonczewski has made the most of her collegiate experience while excelling as a student-athlete. As an elementary education major with a minor in Spanish, she has maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA, earning Dean's List honors every semester. A three-time Big Ten Distinguished Scholar and Academic All-Big Ten honoree, she was also recognized as the 2024 Auto-Owners Insurance Champion in the Classroom for her dedication to academic excellence, in addition to winning this year's President's Award. Beyond the classroom, Bonczewski has embraced leadership roles as the 2024-25 President of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and Secretary of the Big Ten Student-Athlete Issues Committee, using her voice to advocate for her peers. Her passion for service is evident through her involvement in community initiatives such as the MSU Athletics/Red Cross Blood Drive, Teams for Toys, and March is Reading Month. Whether excelling in academics, leading her teammates, or serving her community, Bonczewski continues to make a meaningful impact in all she does.
DIVERSITY & LEADERSHIP AWARD
Presented to a student-athlete who exhibits strong leadership in diversity initiatives within athletics, on campus, and in the community.
Skyla Schulte, Gymnastics
Skyla Schulte has made a significant impact across multiple areas – academically, athletically, and within the community, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication. Academically, she has earned a place on the Dean's List several times and been recognized as a three-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree. Athletically, she is a four-time First Team All-Big Ten selection, a two-time NCAA Second Team All-American, and the 2024 George Alderton Female Athlete of the Year. Schulte has also played an instrumental role in leadership, serving as team captain for two seasons and as a member of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). During her time at MSU, she has been instrumental in creating an environment of inclusivity. Her dedication to diversity and belonging was recognized through her nomination for the Big Ten Jackie Robinson Community & Impact Award. She also served as the intern for the inaugural Spartan Works Program, which gave high school students with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to gain experience working in MSU Athletics.
HAROLD & RAYNOR SHNIDER OFFICE OF THE PROVOST AWARD
Presented to the outstanding male and female freshman or sophomore student-athlete who embodies the characteristics promoted by Student- Athlete Support Services. Emphasis is placed on academic performance, community involvement, and leadership ability.
ISABELLA NAJERA, Women's Soccer
Isabella Najera has quickly made her mark as a standout student-athlete, demonstrating excellence in academics, athletics, and community involvement. Pursuing a degree in marketing, she has maintained a 4.0 GPA, earning her a place on the Dean's List three times, along with a spot on the 2024 Academic All-Big Ten Team. On the field, Najera has been a key contributor to her team's success, earning accolades such as 2023 Big Ten Freshman of the Year and Third-Team All-Big Ten honors. Off the field, she is an active leader as a member of the 2024-25 Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. Committed to making a difference, she participates in various service initiatives, including Teams for Toys, the Student-Athlete Food Drive, and Safe Halloween.
JORDAN HALL, Football
Jordan Hall, a rising star in both academics and athletics at MSU, is already making a significant impact as a student-athlete. A two-time varsity letterwinner and a recipient of the Dean's List honor in Spring 2023, Hall's academic and athletic achievements reflect his commitment to excellence. His passion for leadership and personal development is also showcased by his two-year involvement in the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee and his attendance at the 2024 Black Student-Athlete Summit. His efforts to give back to the community reflect his dedication to making a positive impact both on and off the field. He actively participates in numerous outreach initiatives including March is Reading Month, Team Impact, and hosts an annual Youth Football Camp.
SCHOLAR-ATHLETE AWARDS
Presented to the individual from each team who is in at least their third season at MSU, has received a minimum of one varsity letter, has competed during the 2024-2025 season and while meeting these requirements, maintains the highest cumulative grade point average on their team.
BASEBALL: Gavin Sitarz
MEN'S BASKETBALL: Nick Sanders
WOMEN'S BASKETBALL: Abbey Kimball
MEN'S CROSS COUNTRY: Tyler Pritchett
WOMEN'S CROSS COUNTRY: Sophia Lucki
FIELD HOCKEY: Jillian Bonczewski & Alexa Shaffer
FOOTBALL: Sam Edwards
MEN'S GOLF: Satchel Pierce
WOMEN'S GOLF: Katie Lu
GYMNASTICS: Stephanie Lebster
HOCKEY: Tiernan Shoudy
ROWING: Elizabeth Pollion
MEN'S SOCCER: Josh Mason
WOMEN'S SOCCER: Maggie Illig
SOFTBALL: Sydney Doloszycki
MEN'S TENNIS: Ozan Baris
WOMEN'S TENNIS: Issey Purser
MEN'S TRACK & FIELD: Connor Williamson
WOMEN'S TRACK & FIELD: Valadian Pallett
VOLLEYBALL: Julia Bishop
WRESTLING: Andrew Hampton
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