This year, 13 students from the College of Communication and Information (CCI) were recognized at Florida State University’s (FSU) Torchbearer 100, an annual recognition program held by the Division of Student Affairs. The program honors 100 outstanding undergraduate students who have made a meaningful impact on campus through leadership, service, and achievement. The program defines “leaders and achievers” broadly to highlight a diverse range of contributions, ranging from academic excellence and community-building to personal growth and challenging the status quo. Ultimately, it celebrates students whose influence has strengthened student life and whose legacy will continue beyond their time at FSU.
The CCI students recognized are: Tatiana Garcia, Karlie Jackson, Margot McFadden, Alyson Mizanin, Megan Olivero, Samantha Randall, Vega Scholpp, Sydney Sherry, Jose Sigurani Rivera, Sydney Simon, Sela Teplin, Jacqueline Tinoco, and Emily Woo.
CCI Dean, Dr. Michelle Kazmer, shared that “The Torchbearer 100 recognition represents the very best of Florida State University’s student community— leadership, service, resilience, and a commitment to creating meaningful impact. Within the College of Communication and Information, we are especially proud to see our students recognized for the many ways they use communication, creativity, and collaboration to strengthen both campus and community. Celebrating student leaders in this way not only honors their accomplishments, but also inspires other students to engage, lead, and recognize the value of their own contributions to the university and beyond.”
Two CCI Torchbearer 100 honorees contemplated their leadership journeys and the impact they hope to continue making within the FSU community.
Information technology student Jose Sigurani Rivera reflects on what contributed most to this recognition and the impact he has made within the FSU community. “I’ve always tried to leave systems better than I found them and make pathways clearer for those coming after me. To me, leadership is less about recognition and more about responsibility and being intentional with what you do, who you uplift, and how you create spaces where others feel supported, empowered, and prepared to succeed long after their time at FSU.”
Communication and media studies student Alyson Mizanin shared advice to students who aspire to make a difference on campus. “My advice to CCI students is to leverage the talents you already possess and the skills you’relearning in class. Without fail, every single organization on our campus needs help with social media, brand development, communication strategy, website interface, and digital presence. Advertise yourself properly; you have everything you need already in your toolbox. Push yourself to learn and develop in these environments. They are what will propel you toward your future while keeping you grounded and interconnected at Florida State,” said Mizanin.
From mentoring fellow students to strengthening campus organizations and creating meaningful opportunities for others, these Torchbearer 100 recipients demonstrate how leadership can create lasting change. Students like Sigurani Rivera and Mizanin serve as inspiration for students across Florida State University to engage, lead, and make a difference in their communities.