From the recording studio to the flight deck, this year’s 30 Under 30 are stepping up and standing out. These young alumni are turning big ideas into real-world impact by creating viral brands, building startups and creating award-winning content. They are founders, mentors, storytellers and innovators who are shaking things up and rewriting the rules.
We’re thrilled to announce the 30 Bucknellians who are leading the herd in 2025.
Maggie Fischer ’19
Associate Director, Story
Day One Agency
Maggie has built an impressive career in creative content by blending journalistic excellence with innovative digital storytelling at institutions like The New York Times, The Washington Post and now Day One Agency. Her ability to craft compelling narratives that engage diverse audiences across platforms has made her a standout force in the evolving world of media and communication. Learn more about Maggie on LinkedIn.
Henry Qiu ’23
Software Product Manager
Formlabs
Henry has built a powerful platform at the intersection of art and engineering, amassing more than 750,000 followers and hundreds of millions of views through innovative, educational content that showcases cutting-edge 3D printing technology. His creative work has earned attention from major industry figures like Mark Rober, media outlets such as Hackaday and top creator events like Open Sauce. Learn more about Henry.
Stephen Leslie, Jr. ’18
Senior Device Design Engineer
Kindeva Drug Delivery
A biomedical engineer innovating life-saving medical devices, Stephen is simultaneously achieving international success as a chart-topping R&B artist and music producer, Steven Thad. His ability to balance cutting-edge STEM work with impactful, positive musical expression makes him a rare and inspiring leader bridging science and art. Learn more about Stephen on LinkedIn.
Blake Sherwyn ’19
Founder
Unreal Productions
Blake forged an unconventional path from top talent agencies in Hollywood to becoming a self-taught filmmaker, generating more than 20 million views for his original projects. He earned a screening at the Big Apple Film Festival as well as Best Director honors at the Austin Comedy Film Festival. Driven by creativity and a love of the genre, he continues to develop new work, including a TV pilot he is currently shopping around the industry. Learn more about Blake.
Emma-Lee Miller ’20
Content Manager (Content Lead)
Relatable (Previously What Do You Meme)
Emma-Lee is the head writer for What Do You Meme (Relatable), a leading toys and games company, creating popular card games that bring joy and connection to millions worldwide. Her award-winning work has become a staple in diverse settings, from college residence halls to classrooms. Learn more about Emma-Lee on LinkedIn.
Paul Tadashi Coleman ’22
Adjunct Faculty / Assistant Instructor
Grand Canyon University
Paul exemplifies leadership and service through his multifaceted roles as an Army National Guard officer, educator and mentor. As a Teach For America corps member and sixth grade teacher in a Title I school district, he created a positive learning environment while also serving as an athletic director and coach, instilling discipline and teamwork. His military leadership as a platoon leader, combined with his commitment to humanitarian efforts and community engagement, reflects a deep dedication to empowering others and strengthening his community. Learn more about Paul on LinkedIn.
Megan Grossman ’19
Consultant
The Boston Consulting Group
Whether by advancing women’s leadership in manufacturing, supporting underrepresented students or leading major initiatives at the Yale School of Management, Megan has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to equity, mentorship and community impact. Her dedication to empowering others and building inclusive communities has left a lasting mark across industries, campuses and causes. Learn more about Megan on LinkedIn.
Nicole Vacas ’19
Helicopter Pilot
Capitol Helicopters
Nicole is a trailblazer whose commitment to service spans military, public safety and aviation sectors. As a U.S. Army National Guard pilot and civilian Black Hawk aviator, she’s led high-stakes medevac and firefighting missions while shaping safety and training protocols — demonstrating purpose-driven leadership with real-world impact. Learn more about Nicole on LinkedIn.
Nick DeMarchis ’22
Software Engineer
SeatGeek
Nick has consistently driven positive change by combining innovative engineering and community impact — from building student tools and leading campus journalism at Bucknell, to improving accessibility and language support at SeatGeek, empowering New York City high school students and exposing infrastructure shortfalls through data reporting. His interdisciplinary work exemplifies how technical skill, civic engagement and ethical leadership can intersect to create meaningful impact. Learn more about Nick.
Deepshikha Parmessur ’19
Head of Entrepreneurial Leadership Department
African Leadership Academy
As one of the co-founders of Minority Africa, Deepshikha is pushing the boundaries of inclusive storytelling on the African continent. In her current role at the African Leadership Academy, she is using human-centered design thinking to coach young African leaders to create innovative solutions for their communities. Learn more about Deepshikha on LinkedIn.
Tyler A. Will ’19, M’23
Research Engineer
Luxium Solutions
Tyler combines bold innovation with selfless service, advancing technologies that enhance global safety while leading efforts to defend against chemical, biological and nuclear threats. As both a chemical engineer and U.S. Army captain, his work in cutting-edge R&D and national defense exemplifies a rare and powerful commitment to a safer, more sustainable world. Learn more about Tyler on LinkedIn.
Chris Gregory ’18
Clinical Director
Westmed Ambulance
Chris has revolutionized emergency medical education and care in the Bay Area, personally training and certifying nearly 900 EMTs while also building systems and policies to improve ambulance operations and patient care. A passionate educator, relentless problem-solver and leader in prehospital medicine, he has elevated clinical excellence across the region — and his students, now working nationwide, carry forward his lasting impact. Learn more about Chris on LinkedIn.
Jessica Parrino ’22
Student Physician
Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine
Jessica distinguishes herself through academic excellence as a medical student, impactful leadership advocating for women’s health, and more than 50 hours of community service supporting underserved populations. Her research at Yale University on thoracic surgical care, combined with her dedication to mentoring pre-health students, highlights her passion for advancing medicine and nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals. Learn more about Jessica on LinkedIn.
Yacine Bouabida ’24
Strategic Growth Architect
Espresso AI
Yacine is an entrepreneurial force whose undergraduate research broke new ground on a computer science problem unsolved for nearly five decades, leading to publication in a top-tier journal. Now a key team member at the fast-growing AI startup Espresso.AI, he builds technical tools and drives client success — helping companies save millions and enabling startups to reinvest in innovation. Learn more about Yacine on LinkedIn.
Colleen Kazanjian ’25
GTM
Pika
As a lead ambassador for the Perricelli-Gegnas Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation and the youngest member of its advisory board, Colleen has distinguished herself as a standout entrepreneur. Her startup, Face Guard, earned her the top spot in BizPitch 2024 and she recently launched her second venture, Ottopilot, an AI-powered tool to help facilitate online networking. Learn more about Colleen on LinkedIn.
Brielle Cenci ’19
Founder and Owner
Brielle’s Shells
Blending her engineering know-how and entrepreneurial spirit with a deep love for the ocean and surfing, Brielle launched Mermaid Extensions — a line of seashell hair accessories designed for all ages. Her creations are now available in more than 70 stores and resorts nationwide, and she recently opened her first brick-and-mortar shop on Long Beach Island, New Jersey, with hopes of expanding to additional locations in the near future.
William Szamosszegi ’18
President/Founder
Sazmining
CEO/Founder
MyWorker.ai
Having built successful companies in Bitcoin mining and AI whose valuations peaked at more than $100 million, William demonstrates entrepreneurial leadership as a tech CEO and founder with missions focused on improving humanity’s relationship with money and energy, and empowering founders to realize their visions. Learn more about MyWorker.ai and Sazmining.
Marissa Diehl ’19
Founder & Lead Designer
BunnyCo LLC
Electrical Design Engineer
Myers EPS
Marissa combined her engineering expertise and personal health journey to launch Symptom Detective, an app that helps users uncover links between their lifestyle choices and symptoms. Her innovation is transforming personalized health management while exemplifying entrepreneurial drive, technical skill and a commitment to improving lives. Learn more about Marissa on LinkedIn.
Amy C. Collins ’18, Esq.
Of Counsel
Kalbian Hagerty LLP
White Collar and Criminal Defense Attorney
The Law Office of Amy C. Collins
Amy is a nationally recognized white-collar and criminal defense attorney known for securing precedent-setting outcomes and authoring widely cited legal publications — including works archived by the U.S. Library of Congress. A former U.S. Department of Justice trial attorney turned founder of her own firm, she brings both compassion and excellence to her practice, embodying the liberal arts values of service, scholarship and leadership. Learn more about Amy on LinkedIn.
Emily Gross ’18
Senior Marketing Manager, Laneige
Amorepacific
Emily is a trailblazer in the beauty and wellness industry, known for driving growth through innovation, consumer insight and integrated go-to-market execution. She has led and contributed to impactful brand strategies at companies like L’Oréal, Prose, and most recently, Laneige. Learn more about Emily on LinkedIn.
Judith Klinga ’18
MEP Engineer
New York Presbyterian Hospital
Judith, a licensed professional engineer and LEED accredited professional, has made significant contributions to New York City’s infrastructure by designing energy-efficient mechanical and HVAC systems — including critical COVID-19 healthcare facilities. Her award-winning work supports the city’s carbon neutrality goals and enhances patient care at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, exemplifying engineering excellence and community impact. Learn more about Judith on LinkedIn.
Philip R. Onffroy ’22
Doctoral Researcher
Stanford University
A Goldwater Scholar, National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program fellow and Knight-Hennessy Scholar at Stanford, Philip is advancing sustainability through innovative work on polymers and 3D-printed batteries, distinguishing himself as one of the most promising young scientists in the fight against climate change. Learn more about Philip on LinkedIn.
Jordy Elardo ’19
Director
Cushman & Wakefield
Jordy has rapidly risen in the competitive New York commercial real estate market — earning a coveted role at Cushman & Wakefield and industry honors — while also giving back through nonprofit board service, mentorship and community outreach. His drive, resilience and commitment to professional and civic impact make him a standout in his field. Learn more about Jordy on LinkedIn.
Caroline Kehrli ’18
Professional Staff Member
House Armed Services Committee
As a professional staff member for the House of Representatives Armed Services Committee, Caroline writes legislation supporting the annual National Defense Authorization Act. She advises members of Congress on national security and defense policy issues, including emerging technology and innovation. Her work aims to improve the United States’ warfighting capabilities and enhance the lives of service members. Learn more about Caroline on LinkedIn.
Sage Maggi ’18
Litigation Attorney
Morgan & Morgan
Sage has distinguished herself as one of the top litigation attorneys at the nation’s largest personal injury firm. Her leadership as Personal Injury Chair of the Insurance and Torts Section of the Boston Bar Association and dedication to mentoring law students and young attorneys is making a significant legal impact. Learn more about Sage on LinkedIn.
James Owens ’23, CFA
Partner
Fortune Financial
James has demonstrated extraordinary drive and cross-disciplinary talent, becoming the youngest CFA charterholder in the CFA Society of Philadelphia, a partner at Fortune Financial and the driving force behind multimillion-dollar exit planning engagements — all by the age of 24. His engineering rigor and deep financial expertise reshape client strategies and push industry boundaries, while his entrepreneurial vision is matched by a genuine commitment to mentorship, community service and empowering others to aim higher. Learn more about James on LinkedIn.
Samantha Golaski ’18
Director of Business Development
Hiline
Samantha has built a standout career empowering startups and entrepreneurs, playing a key role in Hiline’s growth into one of Inc.’s 5000 Fastest-Growing Startups and launching its U.K. business. Her leadership across finance and people operations reflects her drive, adaptability and commitment to helping small businesses thrive. Learn more about Samantha on LinkedIn.
Juliet King ’18
Ph.D. Candidate
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Juliet has advanced groundbreaking research on genetic diseases as a doctoral candidate at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, earning national recognition — including a National Institutes of Health National Research Service Award Fellowship — for her work on cleft palate pathology. Her commitment to scientific discovery and mentorship continues to shape the future of biomedical research. Learn more about Juliet on LinkedIn.
Morgan McAlister ’18
Strategy Director
Initiative
Morgan has led successful media campaigns across consumer packaged goods, travel, business-to-business, luxury, spirits and auto sectors for major clients including Volvo, Carnival Cruise Line and Coca-Cola. Her award-winning work showcases her innovative impact in the marketing industry and has been recognized with multiple Festival of Media Gold and Effie Bronze honors. Most recently, she was honored on the global stage at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. Learn more about Morgan on LinkedIn.
Ashton Radvansky ’19
Vice President, Investment Banking
Jefferies LLC
Ashton has worked on more than $20 billion in closed mergers and acquisitions transactions within the midstream oil and gas sector. Beyond his professional success, he demonstrates a deep commitment to community impact through mentorship and service as a board member for First Tee of Greater Houston and the Houston Golf Association. Learn more about Ashton on LinkedIn.