15 students named 2026 Global Scholars
LAWRENCE — Representing academic fields across the university, 15 sophomores have been selected by the University of Kansas as the 2026 cohort of Global Scholars.
The Global Scholars Program, now in its 15th year, recognizes undergraduate students who have an interest in international studies and a strong academic record. Elizabeth MacGonagle, associate professor of history and African & African-American studies, directs the program.
"I'm thrilled with this year's cohort of Global Scholars. They are an exceptionally talented and motivated group, ready to engage in complex global issues and contribute to international scholarship," MacGonagle said.
The 2026 cohort draws from the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences and schools including Business, Engineering and Journalism & Mass Communications, bringing a range of perspectives to a program that will deeply integrate internationalism into their undergraduate experience.
In the spring semester, the students will participate in the three-hour weekly seminar Globalizing Local Culture: Issues around Managing World Heritage, taught by Kapila Silva, professor of architecture. The course examines UNESCO's World Heritage program and explores how international organizations like UNESCO shape thinking and practices in heritage management worldwide.
As part of the Global Scholars Program, each student will collaborate with a faculty mentor who shares their interests on an internationally focused research project. The scholars will present the results of their research during the spring semester of their senior year.
The 2026 Global Scholars Symposium, featuring research presentations from the senior cohort, will take place at 3 p.m. April 23 in Alderson Auditorium, Kansas Union. The public is invited to attend.
The 2026 Global Scholars
Kendal Adams, Overland Park, is studying behavioral neuroscience and Spanish. Her parents are Brittany Adams, Justin Fink and Steven Kling.
Lauren Boeshart, Olathe, is studying biochemistry and Spanish on a premedical track. Her parents are Jason and Amanda Boeshart.
Madeline Doyle, Prairie Village, is studying political science and finance. Her parents are Stacy and Brian Doyle.
Kennedy Farrier, De Soto, is studying political science and history. Her parents are Doug Farrier and Katie Duncan.
Sydney Henley, Platte City, Missouri, is studying human biology and behavioral neuroscience, with a minor in health care management. Her parents are Jeffrey and Sarah Henley.
Jachelle Jones, Olathe, is studying finance. Her parents are Jamaica and Michael Jones.
Yasmine Marcos, Maize, is studying English and finance. Her parents are Naama and Shadi Marcos.
Ian Massidda, McLean, Virginia, is studying mechanical engineering. His parents are Alison and Todd Massidda.
Denym Ogunnowo, Topeka, is studying behavioral neuroscience and molecular, cellular & developmental biology. Her parents are Annette Ogunnowo and Brandon Kochan.
Luca Osborn, Lawrence, is studying pre-nursing. His parents are Jennifer and Derek Osborn.
Ugochukwu Oyefia, Los Angeles, California (raised in the United Kingdom, Nigeria and Kansas), is studying global & international studies, political science, and health and society. His parent is Ekenem Okolocha.
Michael Riggin, Topeka, is studying physics. His parents are Matt Williams and Kimberly Riggin.
Alexandra Robertson, Leawood, is studying microbiology (pre-med track) with a journalism minor. Her parents are Libby and Lindsay Robertson.
Lillian Webb, Overland Park, is studying global & international studies, political science, and women, gender & sexuality studies. Her parents are Mark and Nicole Webb.
Lizzy Wood, Lawrence, is studying accounting. Her parents are Erin and Nathan Wood.