Joshua Renza

The recognition follows her recent honor as a Top 10 CNN Hero in 2023, another milestone in the journey that began when she founded ScholarCHIPS, a nonprofit providing college scholarships and community support for students with incarcerated parents.

Drawing on a childhood shaped by constant change, Arron Jones-Williams ’13 turned his optimism and drive into a business devoted to giving rescue dogs a second chance. Through Rescue Treats, he continues the spirit of leadership, compassion and connection he first discovered at Elon.

Driven by a lifelong love of sports, Shaan Gandhi ’27 has turned passion into purpose through hands-on learning at Elon. With support from the Queen City Internship Grant, he gained real-world experience with the ACC while growing his sports business, SAG Autographs, and learning from mentors who inspire him to lead with drive and adaptability.

Inspired by her sister’s recovery, Carmencita Rosales ’20 discovered her passion for storytelling at Elon and turned it into a thriving career as a bilingual journalist and TV host. From launching WSOE’s first Spanish-language show to creating Tu Cita con Carmencita, she brings energy, resilience and representation to every story she tells.

Guided by curiosity and a passion for storytelling, Lillian Engel ’19 turned her love of editing at Elon into a thriving Hollywood career. From campus projects to major films like "Extraction" and "Joker: Folie à Deux," she embodies the power of hands-on learning, persistence and community.