2026 JEP Community Service Awards

The Dornsife Award for Exceptional Service was established in 2014 to recognize extraordinary volunteers who contribute their “time, talents and treasure” in support of JEP’s programs and initiatives.

This year’s awardee is Room to Read. Founded in 2000, Room to Read is a global nonprofit dedicated to improving literacy and advancing gender equality in education, with a focus on creating high-quality learning materials, supporting educators, and strengthening education systems worldwide. Through its partnership with USC’s Joint Educational Project, Room to Read has played a pivotal role in bringing representation and opportunity into local classrooms by supporting the creation, publication, and distribution of the STEAM-Powered Careers children’s book series. This collaboration has resulted in the distribution of hundreds of thousands of bilingual books to students and families in Los Angeles and beyond, expanding access to stories that reflect diverse identities and introduce young learners to a wide range of STEM careers. By investing its time, expertise, and resources, Room to Read has helped advance JEP’s mission to address educational inequities while inspiring curiosity, confidence, and possibility in the next generation.

The Extraordinary Community Service Award was established in 1981 by Grace Ford Salvatori to recognize one graduating senior or progressive Master degree student for their significant service to the communities surrounding the UPC and HSC campuses.

This year’s awardee is Caleb Clary. Caleb is a senior pursuing a BS in Biochemistry and a progressive Master’s degree in Addiction Science, with a minor in Occupational Therapy, whose service reflects a deep and sustained commitment to expanding access to STEM education and healthcare. As an instructor and Grade Level Coordinator in JEP’s Medical STEM Program, he teaches weekly, hands-on science lessons to more than 100 elementary students, while mentoring fellow instructors and supporting 18 classrooms with thoughtful preparation and leadership. He further extends his impact through JEP STEM’s WonderKids program, where he co-designs engaging virtual lessons, and through his work with USC Global Medical Brigades and Southern California Healthcare Outreach, where he helps deliver essential healthcare services, education, and resources to underserved communities both locally and abroad. Across all of his roles, Caleb demonstrates a remarkable ability to build meaningful relationships, translate complex ideas into accessible learning, and foster curiosity, confidence, and belonging among the students and communities he serves.

The JEP Award for Community-Engaged Teaching and Research was established in 2019 to recognize USC faculty who meaningfully integrate community engagement into their teaching and/or research.

USC has a strong tradition of undergraduate student engagement, with thousands of students devoting time, energy and passion to supporting community organizations while applying emerging knowledge and skills. Named in honor of Richard “Dick” Cone, the Dick Cone Award for Graduate Engaged Scholarship is intended to honor and elevate the efforts of graduate students who can bring advanced awareness and skills to address specific community concerns.

This year’s awardee is Alvin Makori. Alvin is a fourth-year PhD student in Urban Education Policy whose community-engaged scholarship centers on addressing spatial inequality in neighborhoods surrounding USC. His research examines how university expansion in historically Black and Latinx communities shapes K–12 educational opportunities, while working in partnership with community-based organizations to better understand and advocate for equitable access to resources. Through this work, Alvin not only produces rigorous academic research but also develops practical tools and frameworks that support community organizations in navigating redevelopment and influencing policy. His scholarship is defined by its sustained, collaborative nature and its commitment to long-term community empowerment, reflecting a deep dedication to ensuring that research meaningfully contributes to more equitable educational outcomes.

The Barbara Seaver Gardner Award was established in 2008 by then Vice President of Civic and Community Relations, Samuel Mark, who wanted to honor JEP’s founder and first director, Barbara Seaver Gardner. This award recognizes one graduating senior, who through successful participation in JEP (over several semesters) has demonstrated steadfast commitment to community service, with an emphasis on the community surrounding the University Park Campus.

This year’s awardee is Benjamin Harris-Myers. Ben is a graduating PDP student in Applied Data Science who has demonstrated an extraordinary and sustained commitment to JEP and the surrounding community over the past five years. Through multiple JEP assignments, including Peace Project and mentor-tutoring, and through nine semesters as a Program Assistant, he has supported students across a wide range of disciplines while fostering meaningful engagement with local communities. In his leadership role as the inaugural Administrative Program Assistant, Ben has strengthened JEP’s operations by developing systems, supporting program logistics, and mentoring fellow students, all while contributing to trainings, events, and community initiatives. Known for his reliability, thoughtfulness, and ability to guide others toward deeper understanding and authentic connection, Ben embodies the spirit of this award through his dedication to building relationships, challenging perspectives, and cultivating a lasting commitment to community engagement.

The Desiree Benson Award is a very special award that was established through the generosity of our USC Financial Aid Office in the year 2000.  The award honors the life, work and spirit of a dedicated and inspired work-study student, Desiree Benson. Desiree was a business major; grew up in LA (Compton and Inglewood) — and was a beloved member of the USC ReadersPlus program who passed away unexpectedly in the middle of her senior year. The Desiree Benson Work-Study Grant was created that spring of 2000 to pay tribute to the contributions to our community and dedication to service demonstrated by this promising young woman, and to recognize students similar to her: work-study students committed to making a difference and eager to use their skills and talents to inspire others.

This year’s awardee is Emily Sophia Chavez. Emily is a Political Science and Journalism double major whose work-study service reflects an extraordinary commitment to educational equity, mentorship, and community empowerment in the neighborhoods surrounding USC. As Literacy Director for JEP’s ReadersPlus program, she leads and supports more than 70 tutors serving approximately 140 elementary students across South Central Los Angeles, while also designing trainings, coaching tutors, and strengthening program impact through thoughtful leadership and accountability. Her service began as a tutor, where she provided individualized instruction that helped students achieve measurable academic growth and build confidence in their learning. In addition, through USC’s Pre-Law Project, Emily supports immigrant youth in navigating complex legal processes, contributing to efforts that provide stability and opportunity for vulnerable communities. Grounded in her own lived experience growing up in the USC community, Emily approaches her work with empathy, discipline, and a deep sense of purpose, embodying the spirit of this award through her dedication to service, leadership, and creating pathways for others to succeed.

Philanthropists Henry and Grace Salvatori were life-long friends and trustees of the university. They gave generously to USC and have two buildings on our campus named after them. Henry used to say, “Freedom is not free and we all must take responsibility for our society.”  So, in 1992, in memory of Grace, Henry established the Grace Ford Salvatori Community Service Scholarships. These were created to encourage students in the Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences to continue their dedication to service. Each year, the recipients of these scholarships are recognized for their community service as well as their academic excellence and demonstrated student leadership.

The first Grace Ford Salvatori Scholarship recipient this year is Unnatee Kumar. Unnatee is a sophomore studying Computational Neuroscience whose service reflects a deep commitment to healthcare access, education, and mentorship. Since arriving at USC, she has volunteered in high-impact settings including the emergency department at California Hospital Medical Center and the Luskin Orthopaedic Institute for Children, where she supports patients and care teams during critical stages of treatment and recovery. She also mentors students through 826LA’s writing programs and provides one-on-one instruction to children with chronic illnesses through CoachArt, helping young learners build confidence and creativity. Grounded in her experience as a first-generation student, Unnatee approaches her work with empathy, cultural awareness, and a strong sense of purpose, transforming her own experiences into meaningful support for others.

The second Grace Ford Salvatori Scholarship recipient this year is Tracy Wang. Tracy is a junior studying Human Development and Aging whose service centers on education, intergenerational connection, and advocacy for vulnerable populations. As a STEM instructor with JEP’s Young Scientist Program, she brings hands-on science education to elementary students in under-resourced schools, thoughtfully adapting lessons to meet diverse learning needs. She also plays a key leadership role in Trojan Shelter, supporting students experiencing housing insecurity through outreach and resource development, while fostering meaningful relationships with older adults through programs with the Student Gerontology Association, the USC Emeriti Center, and long-term care facilities across Los Angeles. Through her work, Tracy demonstrates a deep commitment to listening, leading with humility, and creating spaces where individuals across generations feel seen, supported, and valued.

The Nick Kaschik Award recognizes a sophomore or junior who demonstrates an exceptional commitment to community engagement through their involvement in the Joint Educational Project, while also serving as a dedicated mentor to others. Established in honor of Nick Kaschik, a USC student-athlete and All-American swimmer known for his remarkable talent, leadership, and vibrant spirit, this award celebrates students who uplift those around them and bring energy, humor, and heart to their service.

This year’s awardee is Haley Baasansukh. Haley is a sophomore studying Public Policy with a minor in Social Work and Juvenile Justice whose service reflects a deep commitment to mentorship, access, and community-building both on and off campus. Through her involvement in JEP, Troy Camp, the Prison Education Project, and organizations such as AATP and Matriculate, she supports students across a wide range of ages and experiences, from elementary school learners developing foundational literacy skills to high school students navigating the path to college. As a mentor and leader, Haley is known for her empathy, consistency, and ability to build meaningful, lasting relationships, creating spaces where students feel supported, seen, and empowered to grow. Grounded in her identity as a first-generation, low-income student, she brings authenticity and purpose to her work, inspiring those she mentors while demonstrating a steadfast commitment to expanding opportunity and strengthening her community.