Massry School of Business Celebrates Graduates at Student Achievement Awards

An audience of students, loved ones and professors listening to the dean speak at the awards ceremony.

By Siobhan Treacy

ALBANY, N.Y. (May 19, 2025) —  On the weekend of May 16, the University at Albany proudly presented degrees to thousands of students at the 2025 Commencement ceremonies. This talented graduating class included over 300 undergraduate and 197 graduate Massry School of Business students who are ready to make waves in the world of business.

Massry celebrated the school’s highest achievers at the second annual Student Achievement Awards.

Held on April 30, the Student Achievement Awards honored standout graduating students across all Massry programs, from marketing to finance to the MBA program. These awards recognize students who have demonstrated exceptional project work, research and contributions to Massry over the 2024-2025 school year.

"The Massry School of Business Student Achievement Award recipients represent the best of all that the school has to offer,” said Massry Dean Paquita Davis-Friday. “These students excel academically while founding and leading student organizations, competing in and supporting athletics, and volunteering in the community. We couldn’t be prouder of them and the example they set, and we look forward to their continued engagement as alumni."

Stories of Perseverance and Success

Some of the award winners shared their journeys and reflected on how Massry’s hands-on learning, mentorship, and industry connections shaped their paths:

Sabrina Colantuono – Outstanding Graduating Senior Award in Marketing

“Upon receiving the email that I had been chosen for a Student Achievement Award, I was so excited. Once I received the award, I was overwhelmed with a feeling of self pride and accomplishment. It truly felt like all the hard work I’ve put in over the past four years had paid off. This award is one of my greatest achievements at UAlbany, and I couldn't be more proud and grateful for it!”

Doresh Khemraj – Outstanding Graduating Senior Award in Information Systems & Business Analytics

"Receiving the Outstanding Senior Award in Information Systems and Business Analytics was an incredible honor. It affirmed the hard work and passion that I have poured into my academic journey. Over time, I fell in love with the field thanks to the engaging classes and inspiring professors who helped me see the real-world impact of what I studied. This award feels especially meaningful because it reflects not just my efforts, but how deeply I connected with the subject, and for that I am truly grateful.”

Grace Firman – Outstanding Graduating Senior Award in Management

“I'm incredibly honored to receive the Outstanding Senior in Management Award. My time at the Massry School of Business has been truly transformative, always challenging me to grow as a leader, think strategically and collaborate effectively with others. I'm especially grateful to Jason Cotugno for his constant support and guidance throughout my journey. I’m excited to carry everything I’ve learned into the next chapter as I begin my career as a benefits coordinator for National Financial Partners.”

Jada Walker - Graduate Achievement Award in Marketing

“Receiving the news that I was designated as the 2025 Graduate Achievement Award Recipient in Marketing was truly a surprise. While I’ve invested significant time, hard work and dedication into my studies, I never imagined my efforts were being noticed so closely by my peers and professors. This recognition reminded me that even when it feels like no one is watching, people are — and that’s why it’s always important to lead with your best effort.”

Behind every student achievement is a network of support. Massry’s faculty mentors and career advisors have a pivotal role in preparing graduates for the workforce. They lead Massry students from their first days on campus until the moment they receive their diplomas.

"The Massry School of Business has provided a rigorous academic experience that equipped me with real-world, transferable skills. I’m especially grateful to professors like Dr. Suraj Commuri and Dr. Aleksandra Kovacheva, who go above and beyond to support their students’ growth, both academically and personally," said Walker. “Without the guidance, structure and opportunities this esteemed school offers, I would not be the person I am today. For that, I am deeply grateful to the University at Albany and the Massry School of Business.”

The other Student Achievement award winners were:

  • Outstanding Graduating Senior Award in Accounting - Molly Murray
  • Outstanding Graduating Senior Award in Finance -Timothy King
  • Outstanding Graduating Senior Award in Financial Market Regulation - Thomas Miney
  • Outstanding Graduating Senior Award in Entrepreneurship - Jade Armstrong
  • Outstanding Graduating Senior Award in Digital Forensics - Justin Klotz
  • Center for Institutional Investment Management Distinguished Thesis Award - Katherine Czernyk
  • Graduate Achievement Award in Digital Forensics and Cyber Security - Shannon Morgan
  • Graduate Achievement Award in Digital Forensics and Cyber Security - Nayanshree Choube
  • Graduate Achievement Award in Evening MBA - Joshua Whelan
  • Graduate Achievement Award in MBA for Executives - Jennifer Thomas
  • Graduate Achievement Award in Human Resource Information Systems - Noah Peters
  • Graduate Achievement Award in Entrepreneurship - Tommaso Dizon
  • Graduate Achievement Award in Finance - Nicholas Ippolito
  • Graduate Achievement Award in Forensic Accounting - Isabelle Najah
  • Graduate Achievement Award in Professional Accountancy - Coltin Luckfield
  • Graduate Achievement Award in Taxation - Joshua Davis
  • Graduate Achievement Award in Business Analytics - Michael Bunce
  • Graduate Achievement Award in Information Systems and Business Analytics - Mariam Boudjelkha

A Bright Future for Massry Graduates

As these students join the ranks of UAlbany alumni, they carry forward the Massry School of Business legacy of innovation and leadership. From Fortune 500 companies to groundbreaking startups, Massry graduates are making their mark across industries, and this year’s award winners are no exception.

Congratulations to all graduates, and a special round of applause to those honored at the Student Achievement Awards! Your hard work has set the foundation for an extraordinary future.

Stay connected with the Massry as they continue to celebrate our students’ success stories. Follow Massry on our social media for updates and highlights!