Five students honored with new awards for excellence

Five students from the Class of 2026 were honored for excellence in teaching, research and making a positive impact on public health at the College of Public Health’s Pre-Commencement Celebration.

The surprise awards were announced by Dean Paula Song.

Doctoral Student Research Award: Christopher Gage

From serving in the U.S. Marine Corps to building a career in emergency medical services, Gage has consistently demonstrated discipline, curiosity and a deep commitment to public service, Song said.

Gage’s research on layperson-administered naloxone represents one of the first national epidemiologic evaluations using EMS data, offering critical insight into how community-based overdose interventions are shaping health outcomes. Gage will receive his PhD in epidemiology this summer.

Graduate Teaching Award: Christilene Tumsiah

Tumsiah, who graduated with a Master of Science in biostatistics, was recognized for her supportive, student-centered approach to teaching the discipline.

Tumsiah created an environment where students felt comfortable seeking help, often extending support beyond scheduled labs and office hours, Song said. She adapted her teaching to individual needs, proactively addressed common challenges and helped students build confidence in their abilities.

Dean’s Award for Public Health Impact: Yuva Vidwans

A BSPH graduate, Vidwans’ research on barriers to clinical trial completion in uterine cancer translated complex data into insights that can improve patient care, Song said. As an undergraduate student ambassador, she developed a pre-professional guide for students and launched a peer mentorship program.

Beyond campus, her service demonstrates a deep commitment to equity and compassion.

Dean’s Award for Public Health Impact: Micah Morris

Morris, who graduated with an MPH in health behavior and health promotion, exemplifies community-centered leadership, Song said.

Morris translated academic training into tangible impact during two internships with Columbus Public Health and planned a back-to-school event to distribute book bags and hygiene kits to local children and families as an intern with One Block at a Time. she also developed an arts-based pilot program addressing HIV-related stigma.

Dean’s Award for Public Health Impact: Greg Chang

Chang, who earned a PhD in epidemiology, has advanced cancer disparities research and advocacy, Song said. As a trainee in Professor Electra Paskett’s lab, he studied breast cancer disparities among minority populations and examined mammography screening before, during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Chang also demonstrated positive impact by extending his expertise into the arena of public policy, contributing to a resource that translates public health evidence into informed conversations about equity, prevention and systems-level change.