The New Mexico State University (NMSU) Foundation proudly announces the recipients of the Fall 2025 Outstanding Graduate Award, recognizing seven exceptional students: one from each academic college and two from the Graduate School.
Selected for their academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to service, these graduates represent the very best of the NMSU community:
Kiana Lynn Rivera, College of ACES
Matias Rougier, College of Arts and Sciences
Rebekah Pase, College of Engineering
Itay Feigin, College of Business
Britney Otero, College of HEST
Sean Schifano, Graduate School, College of Arts and Sciences (Master’s)
Dylan M. Osterhaus, Graduate School, College of Arts and Sciences (Ph.D.)
“These students embody the spirit of what it means to be an Aggie: resilience, grit, and a firm commitment to making a difference,” said Sylvia Y. Acosta ’10, CEO of the NMSU Foundation. “Their achievements speak to the strength of NMSU’s academic programs and the impact of a truly supportive campus community. We’re proud to celebrate their success as they take the next step in their journey.”
Honorees will be recognized during NMSU’s Fall 2025 Commencement Ceremonies on December 12 and 13, 2025 and celebrated at the Outstanding Graduates Luncheon hosted by the NMSU Foundation on Friday, December 12. Their stories and achievements will also be featured on the Foundation’s website at AlwaysAnAggie.org and across NMSU Alumni social media platforms (@NMSUAlumFriends).
Presented by the NMSU Foundation, the Outstanding Graduate Award is one of the university’s highest honors. It celebrates students who embody the core values of New Mexico State University: scholarship, leadership, and service.
About New Mexico State University
NMSU is a Carnegie R1 research institution committed to academic excellence, community impact, and student success. With a proud heritage as New Mexico’s land-grant university, NMSU fosters innovation and prepares students to lead in a rapidly changing world.
About the NMSU Foundation
Founded in 1959, the NMSU Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building enduring relationships with alumni, donors, and partners. Its mission is to secure and steward private support to enhance the university’s ability to serve students and communities across New Mexico and beyond.