We are excited to announce the recipients of the 2025-2026 Global Change Scholars awards!

The Global Change Scholars program is a collaboration between the Multicultural Academic Opportunities Program (MAOP) and the Global Change Center at Virginia Tech. This program provides financial assistance to undergraduate students from the U.S. who demonstrate a commitment to academics, research, and community stewardship, with preference given to students who demonstrate financial need. Undergraduate Scholars conduct research with Global Change Center faculty.

In exchange for financial support, Global Change Scholars must join other Undergraduate Scholars and MAOP participants in meetings to share ideas and experiences with each other and attend personal and academic growth seminars designed to help students understand their role in the greater community, expand their appreciation for multiculturalism, and to achieve their academic goals. Students are also encouraged to consider advanced study options such as graduate school.

We congratulate this year's recipients, Denycè and Maranda!

Global Change Scholar Recipient

Denycè Jasicki-Velin

Geosciences

Denycè is a first generation college student whose academic goals center on building a strong foundation for a future in research through hands-on experience, skill development, and mentorship. Outreach has been pivotal in shaping her decision to go into research, which she believes serves the public by expanding and sharing knowledge. Her long-term goal is to earn a PhD in paleontology and pursue research.

Advised by Dr. Rachel Reid.

Global Change Scholar Recipient

Maranda Stricklin

Microbiology

Maranda is driven by a deep sense of community, advocacy, and volunteerism, which she attributes to her Native American heritage. Her current research interest lies in paleopathology, an under-studied subfield of paleontology. Her ultimate goal is to achieve a DVM-PhD in virology with a residency in anatomic pathology to conduct vaccine and therapeutics research within the government sector, specifically in military biodefense.  

Advised by Dr. Michelle Stocker.