Pitt-Bradford honored several student leaders at the Blue and Gold Gala

Several student leaders at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford were recognized for their co-curricular contributions to the campus and the local community during the Blue and Gold Gala April 13.

“We not only celebrated individual achievements, but also the values and vision that make this campus community so special,” said Michael Davila, vice president and dean of student affairs, “values that come alive through student service, leadership and willingness to say yes to opportunities.”

Several students and student groups were recognized, and others were awarded scholarships for the 2025-26 year. Additionally, seven students received individual awards.

Kristen Ellenberger, a business management major from Ridgway, Pennsylvania, received the Spirit of Service Award for her work as founder of Panthers4Paws, which raises awareness of and funds for the McKean County SPCA, where Ellenberger also volunteers.

Madhav Ellini, a pre-medicine major from India, received the Outstanding First-Year Scholar-Leader Award for his academic performance and for volunteering with multiple organizations, including participating in Alternative Break trips.

Kauã Dos Santos Da Silva, a biology major from Williamsville, New York, captured the emerging leader award for his role as a resident advisor and as a player on the men’s lacrosse team.

Kasia Bauer, an environmental science major from Pittsburgh, received the Outstanding Contribution to Campus Life Award for her involvement on campus, including co-founding the Philosophical Debate Club, leading the Environmental Club as co-president, and serving as a member of the Community Garden Subcommittee.

Lauren Baldwin (pictured), an exercise science major from Bradford, received the Student Worker Excellence Award for her work as a summer landscaping assistant with the Office of Facilities Management and as an evening supervisor in Hanley Library.

Madison Miller, a double major in biology and forensic science from Erie, Pennsylvania, captured the Outstanding Senior Achievement Award. Miller was a resident advisor for three years, president of the Student Activities Council and a member of Lambda Xi sorority.

Gabriel Jakovlic, a history-political science major from Allison Park, Pennsylvania, received the K. James Evans Award for demonstrating exceptional leadership in challenging situations.

Additionally, a few student organizations were recognized. Members of Lambda Xi sorority received the Greek Organization Excellence Award for volunteering more than 1,800 hours and having an overall average 3.4 GPA. Panther4Paws captured the Organizational Excellence Award for supporting the McKean County SPCA and advocating for animals. Greek Council received the Service Excellence Award for contributing more than 4,000 volunteer hours in the past year.

Several other student leaders from campus groups were recognized: the peer tutors from the Academic Coaching and Tutoring Center, the Blue and Gold Society, Greek Council, Meaningful Work Program participants, orientation leaders, resident advisors, Student Activities Council, Student Ambassadors, the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, the Student Athlete Mental Health Awareness Committee, TRIO peer mentors and VISA mentors.