2026 Phi Beta Kappa Award Recipients

Major(s): American Studies and Ethnicity
Minor(s): Justice, Voice and Advocacy

Mia Albright is a senior and Trustee scholar graduating with a degree in American Studies and Ethnicity. She has studied abroad at Cambridge University, where she learned peace and conflict theory. This past summer, she interned for Senator Jacky Rosen in Washington, DC as a Leonard D. Schaeffer Fellow in Government Service. As a teenager, she passed legislation in Nevada that mandated inclusive representation in K-12 textbooks. At USC, she has participated in Moot Court, Mock Trial, USC Panhellenic, and USC Dornsife’s Agents of Change Program, and interned for CARECEN, LA Civil Rights, and the Los Angeles Public Defender’s office.

For her principled leadership in fostering positive change, USC’s Epsilon chapter of Phi Beta Kappa honors Mia Albright.

Major(s): Cognitive Science – GCRT
Minor(s): Dance

Carson Chivers is an undergraduate researcher focused on the intersection of neuroscience and movement. His work explores the relationship between dance and neuroplasticity, and he is currently developing this research into a thesis with plans for publication. He has authored multiple papers and a research proposal on the topic and published a literature review in the student-led journal Scribe. Carson is a recipient of the Academic Achievement Award for three semesters, recognizing his rigorous course load. He also serves as a member of USC Emergency Medical Services and is passionate about healthcare, research, and equity.

For his devoted scholarship and campus service, USC’s Epsilon chapter of Phi Beta Kappa proudly honors Carson Chivers.

Major(s): Chemistry (Chemical Nanoscience)
Minor(s): Computer Programming

Helen Highland, a USC Merit Scholar, began her academic journey with an interest in medicine before shifting her focus to the empirical mathematics of quantum mechanics. This transition was driven by her passion for exploring fundamental questions about the world. Her current research centers on developing next-generation quantum technology hardware, including her recent publication, “Long-lived SiV Center Induced by Nanosecond High-Voltage Pulse Discharge.” Helen aims to pursue a Ph.D. to translate complex theoretical concepts into practical quantum devices, with the goal of advancing technological access and innovation.

For her pursuit of groundbreaking scientific advances, USC’s Epsilon chapter of Phi Beta Kappa is delighted to recognize Helen Highland.

Major(s): Law, History and Culture & Political Science
Minor(s): Mind Body Studies

Ranay Sah is dedicated to advancing global affairs and international development through research and diplomacy. Through research on political thought and ideology as well as urban and economic development, Ranay aims to help people better understand political chaos in our evolving society. As a former head delegate and secretary general for USCMUN and President of UNA-USA at USC he has led global education initiatives for both high school and college students. He is currently working for the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs and will be attending graduate school at Columbia University School of International and Public Affairs.

For his efforts to cultivate global dialogue and understanding, USC’s Epsilon chapter of Phi Beta Kappa honors Ranay Sah.

Major(s): Applied Economics and Econometrics (MS) & Philosophy (BA)

Dane Sprague began his studies at USC with a strong interest in the humanities. Majoring in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics provided him with broad exposure to multiple disciplines, which he complemented by further focusing on his primary areas of interest: Economics and Philosophy. Together, these fields gave him both the analytical tools to examine complex societal systems and the critical perspective to understand their limitations. During his time at USC, he published interdisciplinary research with the Ahmanson Lab, worked with the United Nations as a project evaluator, prosecuted gang homicide cases, and served as Vice President of the Student Body—an experience he considers the greatest honor of his time at USC.

For his outstanding scholarship and civic leadership, USC’s Epsilon chapter of Phi Beta Kappa is pleased to honor Dane Sprague.