The Freshman Award
The Freshman Award acknowledges a freshman that strives to become a future leader through his/her active participation in and contribution to General Engineering events.
Created by J. Benjamin Goodman in the Spring Semester of 2002, The Freshman Award is a unique award that focuses solely on one’s leadership potential. As a student, Ben was extremely active during his freshman year at UIUC. Through his regular participation in ISGE and Department events, Ben was quickly recognized as “The Freshman” by GE upperclassman. The nickname stuck for all four years of college.
The Freshman Award recognizes a freshman that demonstrates the ambition to be a future leader through his/her active participation in and contribution to ISE societies and events. Visionary outlooks toward the future and leadership skills to drive change are key characteristics in the selection criteria. The recipient of The Freshman Award is selected by the Executive Board of ISGE. A cash value accompanies the award and is intended to be used in celebration of the recipient’s accomplishments.
Criteria:
- Freshman
- Demonstrates ambition
- Involvement in ISE activities
Past Recipients of the Award
| 2024 | Varela Natali |
| 2023 | Yara Aoun |
| 2022 | Gadde Akhil |
| 2021 | Priya Shah Dhilan Desai |
| 2020 | Justin Holding |
| 2019 | Rose Chiodo |
| 2018 | Madison Smith |
| 2017 | Julia Santos |
| 2016 | Shaan Bhakta |
| 2015 | Vidas Kulbis |
| 2014 | Mitchell Babendir |
| 2013 | Bridget M. Rose |
| 2012 | Thomas Pinsky |
| 2011 | Laurel K. Haynes |
| 2010 | Evan P. Rodrigues |
| 2009 | Not Awarded |
| 2008 | John P. Sarsfield |
| 2007 | Kevin Sanchez |
| 2006 | Maria Lupo |
| 2005 | Richard "Buddy" Erickson |
| 2004 | Bethany M. Harre |
| 2003 | Danielle Lasater |
| 2002 | William Macfadden |
| Founder | J. Benjamin Goodman |