Campus & Community

Arts & Sciences recently recognized five alumni for their achievements, service and commitment to the liberal arts during its Distinguished Alumni Awards dinner.

After graduating in May with a degree in biomedical engineering from the McKelvey School of Engineering, Carolyn Duncan will work as a researcher at Auragent Bioscience, a startup with many WashU connections.

The Gephardt Institute recently celebrated this year’s Gerry and Bob Virgil Ethic of Service Award honorees. The award recognizes WashU community members whose efforts reflect their, and the university’s, commitment to St. Louis.

Sam Fox School graduate student Meera Lee Patel is an author and illustrator who encourages readers to “start where you are” and “create your own calm.” A self-taught artist, she has sold over a million copies of her books and journals. Patel then decided to explore a new interest: children’s literature.

Ophthalmology and health-equity advocacy have uncovered a third passion for Alexandra Zdonczyk: St. Louis. In July, Zdonczyk will begin her residency in ophthalmology at Barnes-Jewish Hospital.

The Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts recently installed Sung Ho Kim as the Raymond E. Maritz Professor of Architecture.

Ursula W. Goodenough, a professor emerita of biology, and William B. McKinnon, a professor of earth and planetary sciences, both in Arts & Sciences, have been elected to the National Academy of Sciences. Election to the academy, announced May 2, is considered one of the highest honors that can be awarded to a U.S. scientist or engineer.

Clay Canfield is about to graduate with dual degrees in finance and entrepreneurship from Olin Business School. He is also the founder of Sobriety Hub, an app for sober living home operations.

Several distinguished speakers, faculty members and student leaders will take part in Commencement recognition ceremonies for Class of 2023 graduates and their families and guests May 12-15 at Washington University in St. Louis.

Andrea Heredia is about to graduate with a master’s degree in public health from the Brown School. After graduation, she will work as a statistical data analyst at the School of Medicine.