The challenges facing today’s global environment require insight, discipline and purpose. During the 2026 Commencement celebrations, the University recognized students and faculty from the School of Security and Global Studies (SSGS) whose work reflects a strong commitment to leadership and real-world impact.
James P. Etter Creativity and Innovation Award: Dr. Ari Basen
Dr. Ari Basen’s innovative work stands at the forefront of global security and emerging technology. His doctoral research introduced a new conceptual framework known as the “Janus effect.” The Janus effect examines how emerging technologies are perceived not solely based on their capabilities, but on the political and ideological context in which they are developed.
At its core, his research challenges the fundamental assumption that technology is inherently neutral. Instead, Basen demonstrated how the same system can be viewed as stabilizing or threatening, depending on its origin. This insight has significant implications for how nations approach artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and strategic competition.
His academic work has also been applied to the real world. While completing his doctorate, Dr. Basen was invited to serve as a Visiting Scholar in Israel, talking with leaders about national cyber strategy and space policy.
He has since extended his research into the private sector. He founded a company focused on satellite system modeling and filed patents related to autonomous cyber defense for spacecraft.
“Out of the entire doctoral program, Dr. Basen is among the top students I encountered,” says his dissertation chair, Dr. Elise Rainer. That is high praise in an academic program consisting of high-performing scholars.
Dr. Basen’s work reflects intellectual rigor, a willingness to challenge established thinking and the creation of new pathways. It is precisely this blend of innovation and impact that defines the spirit of the Etter Award.
Pinnacle Award: David Ruiz
In the field of cybersecurity and national defense, David Ruiz’s career represents a lifetime of leadership, service, and impact.
Over more than three decades of military and civilian service, David has held key leadership roles focused on protecting critical infrastructure and advancing national security capabilities. His work has spanned operational environments, strategic planning, and mentorship, each sector reinforcing his commitment to developing both systems and people.
As Director of Cybersecurity Operations at the Department of War, David led initiatives that directly influenced the security posture of national systems. At the same time, he has mentored the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.
Throughout his career, David’s leadership is grounded in integrity, accountability and continuous learning. His contributions extend beyond measurable outcomes and are reflected in the individuals he mentored and the standards he established.
The Pinnacle Award recognizes individuals whose careers reflect the highest level of sustained excellence. David’s legacy is not defined by a single achievement, but by decades of consistent impact.
Graduate Academic Scholar Award: Sarah Lopez
Sarah Lopez’s academic journey is based on discipline, focus and a deep commitment to public service.
While pursuing her graduate degree in intelligence studies, she also served as a senior analyst at the Department of War, supporting complex operational missions. Balancing her responsibilities required considerable time management and using the knowledge she gained for real-world applications.
Her courses strengthened her analytical capabilities and enabled her to approach global security challenges with greater precision and a broader perspective. Sarah used her education to enhance and inform her work in meaningful ways.
Through her dedication to her studies, Sarah demonstrated what it means to pursue excellence in both academic and professional environments. She reinforces the value of continued growth in fields that demand constant adaptation and continuous learning.
Undergraduate Academic Scholar Award: Michelle Ferrari
For Michelle Ferrari, the connection between education and real-world experience has been immediate and profound.
As a public affairs professional deployed in East Africa, she found herself working at the intersection of communication, intelligence and regional security, topics that she was studying for her degree. Her real-time experiences in the field brought her coursework to life.
“What has been most impactful to me is seeing my lessons come to life,” she explains.
Whether she’s analyzing information environments, talking with coalition partners or supporting leadership communication, Michelle applied her knowledge directly to operational challenges. This integration strengthened both her understanding and her confidence.
Her experience at the University also fostered critical dialogue and refined her critical thinking through her interactions with faculty and peers. Michelle’s journey reflects the power of education that shapes how individuals interact with the world around them.
Undergraduate President’s Award: Michelle Davis
As a firefighter and paramedic, Michelle Davis operates in high-pressure environments requiring quick decisions and constant compassion. Balancing her stressful job responsibility with academic work required discipline, focus and sacrifice.
Her pursuit of higher education reflected a desire to expand her impact, deepen her knowledge, and strengthen her ability to serve the public. Her desire for a degree was a way to enhance the work she was already doing.
Her success represents more than academic achievement. It reflects the integration of learning and service.
The President’s Award recognizes individuals who exemplify the highest level of commitment and excellence. Michelle’s journey embodies both qualities.
Student Speaker: Maxwell Marsah
Maxwell Marsah’s path to graduation is one defined by perseverance and determination.
Born in Liberia, his academic journey was marked by wartime setbacks, denied visa applications and interrupted studies. After emigrating to the United States with his family, Maxwell joined the United States Marine Corps, continuing his commitment to growth and service. He pursued his degree while serving on active duty, balancing his military responsibilities with academic demands.
His achievement represents persistence through uncertainty, resilience in the face of life’s challenges and the strong belief that progress is always possible.
Doctoral Student Speaker: Dr. Jennifer Cannon
Dr. Jennifer Cannon brings to her academic work a depth of experience shaped by leadership, service and policy expertise.
As a former Air Force officer and strategic professional, Dr. Cannon’s work focused on national security and global policy. These fields required analytical precision and the navigation of complex environments.
Her doctoral studies allowed her to refine her expertise in global security. Her research deepened her understanding and informed her decision-making at higher levels.
Dr. Cannon’s journey reflects a commitment to continued growth, demonstrating that even experienced leaders seek to expand their knowledge and perspective. As a student speaker, she will represent both her own academic journey and the importance of lifelong learning.
Doctoral Student Speaker: Dr. Satwana Hurdle
Dr. Satwana Hurdle’s journey reflects a lifelong dedication to service, learning and leadership.
An Air Force veteran with more than 17 years of experience in emergency management, she has worked across local, state, federal, and private sectors. During her career, she developed expertise in disaster preparedness, continuity of operations and crisis response.
Her academic journey represents a continuation of that work. Through her doctoral studies in global security, Dr. Hurdle deepened her ability to lead and serve at a strategic level.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, she is committed to mentorship, supporting both elementary students and emerging professionals in her field. Her goal is to continue teaching and develop the next generation of leaders in emergency management.
Graduate Excellence in Teaching Award: Eduardo Martinez
Eduardo Martinez’s teaching philosophy centers on pushing students beyond their comfort zones. He encourages his students to examine assumptions, engage deeply with their course material and strive for higher levels of understanding. At the same time, he ensures students feel supported as they take on academic challenges and grow their knowledge.
For him, learning is not simply about helping students to absorb information. It’s also about helping his students to improve their critical thinking and apply their knowledge effectively.
Undergraduate Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Donna Hess
Dr. Donna Hess has exceptional ability to make complex subjects accessible and engaging. With her expertise in language instruction and international relations, she brings a rare combination of depth and versatility to her teaching. Her courses are designed to break down challenging material into clear, understandable components.
Students consistently extol her responsiveness, clarity and dedication. One student described her as “a gifted teacher breaking down a very difficult language and making it easy to comprehend.”
Beyond the classroom, Dr. Hess actively engages in scholarship and teaching development to better serve her students. Her work reflects the highest standards of teaching excellence, combining knowledge, innovation and a deep commitment to student success.
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