Indiana State University announced on April 29 the recipients of its distinguished student awards for 2026, including the Rankin Distinguished Senior Award and the Daniel J. Bradley Medal for Leadership, Scholarship, and Service. These honors are given to students who have shown excellence in academics, leadership, and service within the university and the wider community.
The recognition highlights the importance Indiana State places on academic achievement as well as involvement beyond the classroom. The awards aim to celebrate students who have made significant contributions both academically and through their leadership roles.
“The Rankin Distinguished Senior Award and Daniel J. Bradley Medal represent some of the highest ideals of Indiana State University: academic excellence, principled leadership, and service beyond oneself,” said Indiana State University President Mike Godard. “This year’s recipients have not only distinguished themselves in the classroom but have strengthened our campus and community through their character, commitment, and example. They embody the very best of the Sycamore spirit, and I am proud to celebrate their accomplishments as they prepare to carry Indiana State’s mission forward in the next chapter of their lives.”
Interim Provost Brad Balch also commented on this year’s honorees: “It’s inspiring to see our students living our mission of learning, discovery, and engagement—while balancing academics, social life, and leadership roles. The skills they’ve developed at Indiana State will serve them well as they pursue the next steps in their journey. Congratulations to each honoree on this outstanding achievement.”
The Rankin Distinguished Senior Award is named after Dr. Alan C. Rankin, Indiana State’s seventh president. It recognizes seniors who maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.00 while demonstrating active involvement in campus organizations or community service projects throughout their time at Indiana State University.
For 2026, eight students received this award: Krisyon Mahayla Capshaw (Kinesiology), Lakshit Chaudhary (Computer Science), Sophia Rose Greenwood (Music Liberal Arts), Jaylen M. May (Business Administration), Hannah Catherine Natschke (Finance), Kaylee Anne Prewitt (Political Science), Hallie Marie Rue (Psychology), and Keyona Amani Young (Applied Medicine).
The Daniel J. Bradley Medal for Leadership, Scholarship, and Service is awarded annually to a graduating senior with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.00 who has demonstrated sustained commitment to community service as well as multiple long-term leadership roles within or outside university life.
This year’s recipient is Piper Delaney Watkins from Mooresville majoring in Digital Communication & Media/Public Relations.
Awardees will be recognized during Indiana State University’s Spring 2026 commencement exercises.