Stoll selected as USI Class of 2025 President's Medalist
Maxwell Stoll, who will graduate magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in biology and a minor in psychology, has been named the recipient of the prestigious President’s Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon an undergraduate in the University of Southern Indiana Class of 2025.
Stoll has exemplified integrity, professionalism and maturity throughout his academic, research and extracurricular pursuits. A committed leader in the Student Ambassadors Organization (SAO), he has fostered a positive and inclusive environment, earning the trust and respect of peers, faculty and staff. Known for his humility and curiosity, Stoll regularly seeks feedback and demonstrates a desire for continuous self-improvement.
Over four years with SAO, Stoll accumulated more than 150 volunteer hours, playing a key role in sustaining USI’s vibrant campus community. As Activities Chair during his sophomore and junior years, he planned retreats and banquets for more than 60 members, strengthening the sense of community. In his final year, Stoll served as SAO President, inspiring his team through servant leadership and a commitment to student engagement. His leadership expanded SAO programming, increasing student participation and promoting inclusivity and service.
Stoll’s impact at USI extends beyond his involvement in student organizations. Early in his academic career, he impressed several professors with his enthusiasm for research and his ability to critically evaluate information and integrate concepts. His passion for biology grew quickly, leading him to work in the genetics lab as a student worker for Dr. Kim Delaney during his freshman year. There, he learned the delicate nature of science, where every small detail and measurement matters.
Eager to deepen his involvement, Stoll approached Dr. Alex Champagne, who took him on as a research assistant. He contributed to projects on lipid membranes in various organisms, learning that some problems require fresh perspectives to solve. The result of his research was a successful grant proposal he wrote on cellular lipids in tropical and temperate birds, earning an Endeavor! Student Research Award. His ability to communicate his research clearly and confidently impressed peers and mentors. Stoll continues his research while actively encouraging others to explore similar opportunities, presenting to organizations like the Biology Club and Pre-Professional Health Club. Inspiring others to pursue research is as rewarding to him as conducting his own.
At the 2024 Indiana Physiological Society meeting, Stoll earned second place in the Undergraduate Poster category. His calm, confident demeanor left a lasting impression on both students and senior scientists. His ability to explain complex concepts in an engaging manner points to a promising future in medicine, where these skills will serve him well. As Stoll continues his research journey, he remains committed to inspiring others and making meaningful contributions to the scientific community.
In addition to his academic and research achievements, Stoll was named the 2025 Distinguished Biology Graduate, received the Distinguished Sophomore Award in Fall 2022, the Koewler Scholarship and named a Top 10 Student Leader in 2021-22. He has been a member of the USI Honors Program, USI Foundation Student Advisory Board, President of the Pre-Professional Health Club and Co-president of the Pott College Student Advisory Board. His commitment to service includes volunteering at the Evansville Rescue Mission and St. James Catholic Church. On campus, he served as a Welcome Week Leader and Student Ambassador, earning Student Ambassador of the Month in 2022.