Syracuse Sun

The Maxwell School recently hosted its annual Awards of Excellence event, honoring five alumni for their contributions to society and their respective fields. The awards aim to celebrate engagement, citizenship, and commitment. This year's honorees include Sahil Jain, Margaret Abraham, Ana Maria Menezes, Tom Bozzuto, and Tiesha Peal.

Sahil Jain was awarded the Compass Award for early-career accomplishments. Reflecting on his journey, Jain said, “Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the resilience of my parents... Their unwavering determination taught me that true leadership is not solely about personal achievements but about the impact we have on those around us.” Jain currently serves as a foreign service officer with the U.S. Department of State, having held several significant positions in government.

Margaret Abraham received the 1924 Award for distinguished leadership. As a professor, author, and lecturer, Abraham focuses on nonviolent social change, bridging scholarship and activism. At the ceremony, she stressed the importance of social scientists engaging in societal betterment. “In these times our activism, engagement and pursuit of justice becomes even more vital,” she remarked.

Tom Bozzuto, chairman of The Bozzuto Group, was honored with the Bridge Award. Having developed over 62,000 homes, Bozzuto emphasized his family's belief in civic responsibility beyond basic obligations. “As citizens, our duty does not stop at the doorway to our homes,” he stated. Bozzuto credited his education, particularly at Maxwell, for his success.

Ana Maria Menezes received the Spirit of Public Service Award for her work in aquaculture, aiding global food security. In her remarks, Menezes highlighted the influence of her Maxwell education. “What I learned at the Maxwell School in the public administration master’s degree program set me up for a fulfilling journey, a greater purpose,” she noted.

Tiesha Peal, who could not attend the event, was awarded the Charles V. Willie Advocate Award. Known for her legal work promoting equal treatment under the law, Peal has a history of advocacy and mentorship.

The Awards of Excellence program, which started in 2022, aligns with the Maxwell School’s mission and values. This year's ceremony was hosted at the University’s new location in Dupont Circle.