Outstanding Graduates Spring 2025
Chancellor’s Award
The Chancellor’s Award is emblematic of UW-Parkside's top graduating student.
Grant Pitts | Sociology
Grant Pitts is a passionate and driven Sociology major whose academic and civic engagement distinguishes him as a truly outstanding student. Known for his intellectual curiosity and critical thinking, Grant consistently demonstrates a deep understanding of social structures and a desire to be a force for positive change. He has contributed to multiple faculty-led research projects, including presenting at an international conference and leading a team on a yearlong community-based study.
Beyond the classroom, Grant is a leader in every sense, serving as President of Parkside Student Government, a civic engagement fellow, and holding several roles in both campus and community organizations. He balances these leadership responsibilities with full-time work and a full academic load, reflecting his exceptional work ethic and time management.
Grant’s commitment to social justice, campus inclusion, and public service speaks to his character and his readiness to make a lasting impact as a changemaker and community advocate.
Congratulations, Grant!
Outstanding Graduates – alphabetical order
Each year, faculty members of the University of Wisconsin-Parkside nominate students in the senior class to receive the university's Outstanding Graduate Award. A committee of faculty and staff then select the recipients.
Andrew Conrad | Sport Management
Andrew Conrad is an exceptional Sport Management major graduating this spring after completing his degree in just three years. He will also be among the first to earn UW-Parkside’s new Sport Sales Certificate. Beyond academic success, Andrew has distinguished himself through a wide range of impactful internships, including with The Club at Strawberry Creek, the International Speedskating World Cup, and UW-Parkside Athletics. His hands-on experience spans operations, marketing, sports communications, and sponsorship sales.
A standout student-athlete, Andrew competed on the Men’s Golf team throughout his time at Parkside, serving as RSAAC Representative and earning recognition as a Cobalt Golf All-American Scholar. His leadership extends to roles as President of Athletes Intervarsity and Vice President of the Sport Management Club. He has volunteered extensively in the Kenosha community and served as a high school basketball official in Missouri.
Andrew is known for his drive, professionalism, and integrity, and is poised to make a lasting impact in the sports industry.
Congratulations, Andrew!
Janet Jurado | Theatre Arts and Communication
Janet Jurado is an outstanding double major in Theatre Arts and Communication, with a minor in Digital Media and Production. A proud first-generation student from Kenosha, Janet has become a standout leader, artist, and community member. Despite her high level of academic achievement, Janet also maintained two part-time jobs and earned multiple scholarships each year.
Janet’s accomplishments include starring in numerous campus productions and regional performances, as well as acting in multiple film and television projects, including a leading role in Haunt Season, which premiered in Chicago and Los Angeles. She has also done voiceover work and co-authored a scholarly chapter on mentoring women of color.
On campus, she served as Drama Club President, Peer Mentor, and Social Media Intern for the theatre department. Her internships span the Theatre and Communication Departments and Ranger Media Studios, where she contributed to over 40 live-streamed events.
Congratulations, Janet!
Malika Mian | Business Management
Malika Mian is a graduating senior majoring in Business Management with a pre-medicine focus. A first-generation college student, Malika exemplifies academic excellence, strong leadership, and a deep commitment to community service. She has been inducted into Beta Gamma Sigma, the international honor society for business students, and serves as a Senator in Parkside Student Government, where she advocates for student-centered policies.
Her passion for healthcare equity drives her volunteer work locally and internationally. She supports physicians at CMH Kharian Hospital in Pakistan and engages in service initiatives in Racine, including tutoring, cleanup efforts, and caregiving. Professionally, she has worked as a Health Educator for the Franklin Health Department and currently serves as an Ophthalmic Technician.
With plans to pursue medical school, Malika will soon begin a research role at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine. Her passion for equitable healthcare defines her inspiring path forward.
Congratulations, Malika!
Since its founding in 1968, the University of Wisconsin-Parkside has been a trusted partner for the region’s higher educational needs, empowering students to thrive, advancing applied knowledge, and developing talent for the future. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as certificates and pre-professional programs, designed to foster personal and professional growth through real-world and impactful learning experiences. Located in the dynamic Chicago-Milwaukee corridor, UW-Parkside offers unmatched access to world-class internships, professional networks, and endless career-building opportunities, placing students at the center of it all.
Media contact:
Derek Fye
Communications Manager
University of Wisconsin-Parkside
Fye@uwp.edu | (262) 771-5419