EJIE Student Champions 2025–2026
The Division of Equity, Justice, and Inclusive Excellence is proud to recognize these 14 undergraduate EJIE Student Champion Award recipients. These scholars were nominated by faculty, staff, and students for their outstanding contributions to equity, justice, belonging, leadership, and community engagement at UC Merced.

Elijah Olson
Computer Science, Computer Engineering & Philosophy
Graduating senior recognized for leadership in technology, research, and community engagement. Elijah has served as a technical team lead at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, conducted computational neuroscience research, launched the award-winning Syllabud application, and contributed to cognitive science research at UC Merced.

Brenden Wilson
Public Health (Pre-Med) • Psychology Minor
President of the Black Student Union, Event Planning Lead for the Black Student Coalition, and Special Projects Student Coordinator for the Calvin E. Bright Success Center. Brenden is recognized for academic excellence, leadership, and advocacy.

Christelle Baria
Human Biology
First-generation Filipino American student, mentor, co-founder of Tiny Health Tales, and President of ASBMB. Christelle promotes health literacy and supports underrepresented students pursuing careers in STEM.

Bernadette Bravo
Psychology & Public Health
Leader in Housing Services and active member of Delta Delta Delta. Bernadette has demonstrated a strong commitment to creating an inclusive, welcoming, and supportive campus environment.

Sheila Chavez Perez
Public Health
First-generation college student dedicated to health equity, accessibility, and inclusion. Sheila supports students through Student Accessibility Services and community health initiatives.

Misha Gerami
Human Biology
Learning Assistant, peer mentor, Co-President of Tiny Health Tales, and Vice President of ASBMB. Misha is passionate about helping students navigate college and achieve academic success.

Emily Le
Developmental Biology
Managing Editor and Editor-in-Chief of the Undergraduate Research Journal and researcher in the Woo Lab. Emily is recognized for advancing undergraduate research and scientific inquiry.

Michelle Clark (Mickey)
Environmental Systems Science
Environmental advocate, student leader, and community educator dedicated to making environmental science more accessible while supporting community engagement and service initiatives.

Ling L. Baltodano
Cognitive Science & Psychology
Scholar Coordinator, designer, mentor, and student leader committed to building inclusive communities and creating opportunities for future student leaders.

Adriana Martinez Diaz
Human Biology & Spanish
Student Legal Intern with Services for Undocumented Students and Co-President of the Public Health Society. Adriana is dedicated to advocacy, leadership, and community support.

Olivia Sanchez
Sociology & Psychology
Student Supervisor in the School of Engineering, Undergraduate Team Lead in the IMPACT Lab, mentor, and community advocate focused on student success and wellbeing.

Aida Hassani
Psychology
Research Assistant and public health advocate whose work focuses on mental health, behavioral research, and community engagement throughout the San Joaquin Valley.

Yessica Medina
Psychology
First-generation student leader, volunteer, and advocate committed to fostering belonging and supporting underserved communities through education and service.

Mistura Bankole
Economics & Political Science
Student leader, senator, and advocate for equity and inclusion who works to create meaningful opportunities and support for underserved student communities.
