Each spring, the Heller community gathers to celebrate the many accomplishments and milestones over the course of the academic year. The awards recognize individuals for outstanding teaching, mentoring, teaching assistance, staff service, and research. Special awards include the Barbara Wakefield Award, presented to a student who has contributed to community-building within and outside of Heller; and the Robert L. Dunigan Award, presented for the first time this year in honor of Robert L. Dunigan, PhD'04, for service strengthening collaboration and understanding. Winners are nominated from within the Heller community and determined by a committee of past awardees, student representatives from each academic program, and alumni. The winners epitomize everyone at Heller—our collective fortitude, optimism in the face of turbulent times, and dedication to championing social justice.
During her opening remarks, Interim Dean Maria Madison commended the outpouring of nominations across all categories, underscoring that Heller’s success is made possible by the exceptional individuals who go above and beyond to support the community. She also highlighted the latest U.S. News & World Report rankings, which continue to rank Heller among the top 10 schools for social policy and #13 for health policy and management in the country, as a testament to the community’s ongoing excellence.
Teaching Excellence Award: Marji Erickson Warfield, PhD’91, Senior Research Scientist, Center for Youth and Communities
Marji Erickson Warfield, PhD’91, was recognized for her expert ability to create student-centered classrooms that incorporate diverse learning styles while developing students’ skills to engage in intersectional policy analysis and research. Nominators consistently praised Marji for her exemplary teaching, with one student stating, “I would love to take a pedagogical course where she just teaches how to teach.” Another student reflected, “I’m impressed with the way she balanced sharing her expertise and knowledge with welcoming and encouraging students to share their own expertise.”
Mentoring Award: Mary Poor, Deputy Director, Global Programs
Mary Poor received this year’s honor for mentorship in recognition of her unwavering dedication to student success and commitment to fostering an effective learning environment. Nominators remarked that she has supported students in their lowest moments and their best moments, and has been the absolute calm in the tempest for her team, Heller colleagues, and local community. Others noted Mary’s “calm and caring demeanor is what defines her as a mentor and most importantly, an amazing soul.”
Early Career Research Investigator Award: Dr. Miriam Heyman, Research Scientist at the Lurie Institute
In presenting Miriam Heyman with the Early Career Research Investigator Award, Monika Mitra, Director of the Lurie Institute for Disability Policy, highlighted the immense impact Miriam has had as project manager of the National Research Center for Parents with Disabilities: “Thanks to her unwavering commitment, the Center has become a vibrant hub—nationally and internationally—for advancing the rights, experiences, and aspirations of parents with disabilities.” Nominators commended Miriam’s ability to lead with clarity, humility, and purpose—mentoring students and fellows, challenging outdated narratives, and championing inclusive practices in both research and dissemination.
Staff Service Award: Joanne Beswick, MS GHPM’12, Executive Administrator, Office of the Dean
Joanne Beswick, MS GHPM’12, was this year’s recipient of the Staff Service Award, presented by Interim Dean Maria Madison, who called her “one of the best examples of resilience who personifies the highest levels of productivity, reliability, and patience. (She) is essentially the cornerstone of everything that happens at the Heller School on a daily basis.” Nominators noted that in the midst of chaotic and challenging times, Joanne has inspired others to persevere while never diverting from her purpose, and that she is a grounding force who makes herself available to ensure that Heller continuously succeeds.
Teaching Assistant: Samuel Siaw, MA SID’25
This year’s awardee, Samuel Siaw, MA SID’25, was recognized for his extraordinary commitment to student learning and fostering an engaging and inclusive learning environment. Nominators noted that he is a mentor who meets students where they are, making complex concepts understandable while creating a space where they feel empowered to challenge ideas and engage in rigorous intellectual discussions. His empathy, patience, and enthusiasm for learning exemplify the highest standards of teaching excellence. One student remarked, “Your teaching was excellent in every aspect. In fact, I would love to see my child have the opportunity to be lectured by you at Brandeis University someday.”
Robert L. Dunigan Award: Paulina Campos, MPP’25
The inaugural Robert L. Dunigan Award recognizes a member of the Heller community who has made noteworthy contributions that help advance inclusivity; enrich experiences for our faculty, researchers, staff, and students; and contribute to the overall success and climate of the school.
This year’s recipient, Paulina Campos, MPP’25, works every day to create a supportive environment among the MPP cohorts. As Co-Chair of the MPP Student Association, she has demonstrated a commitment to fostering belonging among students of various backgrounds. Paulina is also dedicated to showcasing the intellectual excellence of the Heller community through her work as executive editor of the Open-Air Journal. Paulina has bolstered the Journal’s mission in this role by engaging students in thought-provoking work across programs and disciplines. As one nominator stated, “Paulina is an absolutely radiant leader…She brings a warm energy to every room she steps into, and serves as a connector among individuals throughout the Heller building.”
Barbara Wakefield Award: Modesta Addison, MA SID/COEX’25
In presenting the Barbara Wakefield Award, Courtney Lombardo, Associate Director of Development and External Relations, remarked that this year’s recipient, Modesta Addison, MA SID/COEX’25, embodies the spirit of leadership so deeply valued at Heller. Nominators called Modesta a constant source of support for her peers, always approaching others with compassion, equity, and an advocate’s spirit. As a key player in the Graduate Student Association, Modesta has tirelessly advocated for critical issues such as increased scholarships, housing, and diversity. She has worked directly with the University President and sat on numerous committees, always elevating student voices and ensuring they are heard. Joel Cohen, Barbara Wakefield’s widower, and his current spouse Pamela Cohen, joined the event and were also thrilled by the choice of Modesta and meeting her in person.