Rice University graduating students Sara Denison and Khoi Nguyen have been named this year’s recipients of the Sallyport Award, presented annually at commencement ceremonies by the Association of Rice Alumni to students who embody the “spirit of Rice” and exemplify a deep commitment to the university through service, leadership and dedication to the Rice community.
Denison, a doctoral candidate in environmental engineering, has distinguished herself as a researcher, mentor and advocate for diversity in STEM. Her work on pyrolytic treatment of oil-contaminated soils offers promising solutions for environmental remediation, and she has presented her findings at national conferences. Beyond her research, Denison has actively mentored students from underrepresented backgrounds, volunteered at numerous outreach events and pursued leadership development through the Doerr Institute for New Leaders and the Center for Teaching Excellence.
“I’m truly honored to receive the Sallyport Award, and I am grateful to the Association of Rice Alumni for this recognition,” Denison said. “This award is especially meaningful to me because it reflects my passion for community and service that have shaped my time at Rice. Being involved in outreach efforts and building connections with classmates and faculty at Rice has been one of the most rewarding parts of my time here.”
Denison, who joined Rice after earning her bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Austin, will soon begin her career as an assistant professor.
“These are lessons I’ll carry with me, and I’m excited to continue finding ways to give back and engage with the university and its alumni,” she said.
Nguyen, a graduating senior at Duncan College, has also left a lasting mark on campus through his commitment to student life, cultural engagement and service. He has held multiple leadership roles within Duncan, including O-Week coordinator and peer academic adviser, where he focused on inclusivity and community-building.
As co-president of the Rice Lions dance team and an officer in the Rice Vietnamese Student Association, Nguyen helped organize over 30 cultural performances, creating spaces where students could celebrate their heritage and feel a sense of belonging. His dedication to service extended beyond campus through his leadership with Camp Kesem Rice, a nonprofit that supports children affected by a parent’s cancer.
“Over my four years at Rice, I’ve dedicated myself to organizations and causes I’m passionate about, and being recognized for these efforts means the world to me,” Nguyen said. “This recognition inspires me to keep striving to be the best version of myself and to continue giving back to others as I move forward in life.”