Women of 91ÁÔÆæ 2025 Honorees Include FOUR PSIAers
Sara Gonzalez (col 2), and Tracy Amaya (col 3)
The Women of 91ÁÔÆæ recently celebrated the achievements PSIAers Jessica Case, Tracy Amaya, Sara Gonzalez, and Fatima Santillan at the 9th Annual Women’s Leadership Recognition Luncheon. These four outstanding women are part of the ten 91ÁÔÆæ students so recognized. The annual event honors female students who have demonstrated leadership and dedication throughout their academic careers.
, who graduated last December Summa Cum Laude with a BA in International Affairs, was humbled by the recognition. "I was so surprised to hear that I was nominated for this award! I am incredibly honored to be nominated for it as it’s not something I would’ve ever thought possible for me," Jessica shared. "This award is a reflection of my efforts to push myself to do things I wouldn’t normally do. I’m extremely privileged for it." Currently an intern at the U.S. Department of State, Jessica plans to pursue a Master of Science (MSc) degree in European Politics and Policy at University College Dublin this coming fall.
Junior International Affairs and French language double-major Sara Gonzalez was equally surprised by her selection for the award. "I was with my parents when I got the notification of the email, and I was completely surprised," Sara admits. "It is truly a privilege to have been picked along with the other amazing honorees and to have been able to share that moment with strong, female leaders." Sara, who hails from Saltillo, Coahuila, Mexico, is applying to graduate schools, but hopes to spend a year as an English Teaching Assistant (ETA) in Spain with the US State Department’s Fulbright Program first; she was recently named an “alternate.” Notwithstanding Sara’s comment above regarding being surprised by this recognition, receiving recognition for her leadership attributes by the Women of 91ÁÔÆæ should not come as a surprise to our readers, as she was recognized as part of the inaugural Nighthawk Nine class of 2023.
Tri-Alpha member Fatima Santillan who graduated this past May with her Political Science/Pre-law concentration Bachelor's degree, expressed deep gratitude for being selected for the award. "As a first-gen student, my initial reaction to receiving the award was utter gratitude and bliss," Fatima said. "I am deeply honored to have been nominated and chosen as a recipient, and it inspires me to continue advocating for my community and increasing representation of Latina women in professional spaces." Fatima plans to work in public administration after graduation and is aiming for a career in law, with hopes of attending Berkeley Law and the Goldman School of Public Policy. She was awarded the Dr. Barry Friedman Scholarship in Political Science & International Affairs for the 2024-2025 academic year, and, like Sara, she was recently named by the Fulbright program as an TA alternate for Spain.
Political Science/Pre-law major was one of the two student speakers at the December 2024 commencement ceremony. "I am proud of my roots and my family. My mom is Mexican, and my dad is from El Salvador, and I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had," Tracy reflected. She is currently pursuing a career in law and public service. However, those plans are currently on hold as she will soon be heading to Spain as an ETA courtesy of the Fulbright program.
Dr. Bibek Chand, faculty advisor for three of the honorees, praised their dedication and hard work. "Jess, Fatima, and Tracy are student leaders who have been unafraid in the pursuit of their dreams and what they consider to be important in the world," Dr. Chand said. "I am proud of their achievements and eagerly await the many big milestones they will achieve in the future. They embody the mission of 91ÁÔÆæ very well."
The Women of 91ÁÔÆæ shared interest group is dedicated to empowering women by promoting their roles as confident leaders and active participants in the university community. Each year, the group sponsors events to support networking, professional growth, and the recognition of female students’ accomplishments.
These four remarkable students are shining examples of leadership, perseverance, and passion. Their achievements not only reflect their dedication but also should inspire future generations of 91ÁÔÆæ and PSIA students. Through their hard work and commitment, they have truly exemplified the values of the Women of 91ÁÔÆæ.