November 2025 Scholar Accolades
Dr. Scott A. Hale (2004) was selected as the next director of the Oxford Internet Institute at the University of Oxford starting in January. The Oxford Internet Institute (OII) is a multidisciplinary research and teaching department dedicated to the social science of the Internet.
"An Associate Professor and Senior Research Fellow at the OII, Dr Scott A. Hale leads the Equitable Access to Quality Information Lab. His research combines computational and social science methods to explore how digital technologies, from social media and large language models to algorithmic systems, shape society. His work focuses on misinformation, collective action, and multilingual communication, helping ensure digital tools serve diverse communities." - OII
Linda Yao (2006) was named Woman in Tech Leader of the Year by the 2025 Tech Ascension Awards. Linda is VP and GM, Hybrid Cloud and AI Solutions, Solutions and Services group for Lenovo.
"Linda Yao has been instrumental in advancing Lenovo’s leadership in hybrid cloud and AI infrastructure. She has championed diversity and innovation across Lenovo’s ecosystem, helping organizations harness intelligent infrastructure for sustainable, scalable digital transformation. Yao’s leadership reflects a rare blend of technical excellence, strategic foresight, and dedication to empowering the next generation of women in tech." - Tech Ascension Awards
Brandon Cardet-Hernandez (2003) was appointed to The Leadership Academy’s Board of Directors.
"[Brandon Cardet-Hernandez] brings to the board deep experience at the intersection of education, innovation, and systems change.
"'This is a full‑circle moment for me,' said Cardet-Hernandez. 'The Aspiring Principals Program shaped how I lead—with urgency, empathy, and a relentless focus on students. Serving on The Leadership Academy’s board is a chance to pay that forward and champion the leaders our communities deserve.'” - The Leadership Academy
Leia Schwartz (2014) was named one of Stetson University’s “10 of the Last 10” award recipients. These awards recognize outstanding young alumni from the past decade who exemplify what it means to be a Hatter through their leadership, service, and dedication to the Hatter Spirit. Honorees embody Stetson's values and are making waves in their communities and careers.
"It was wonderful returning to campus for Homecoming this past weekend to celebrate with my Stetson family. I'm so grateful for the incredible mentors who have shaped my journey - across the School of Music, Stetson University College of Arts and Sciences, Stetson University School of Business Administration, and beyond - and loved reconnecting with some of them - as well as forging new connections with current students, faculty, and members of the community". - Leia Schwartz
TJ Abrams (2001) was named an inaugural member of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America National Alumni & Champions Council. This newly launched Council unites Alumni and Champions committed to strengthening communities, supporting young people, and advancing the future of mentorship in America.
"I’m grateful to be part of this inspiring group. This is just the beginning." - TJ Abrams
Olivia Sally (2020) was named a recipient of the Cambridge AI Safety Hub's Alignment Fellowship, an intensive, fully funded program focused on tackling one of the most critical technical and policy challenges of our time: the safe and aligned development of advanced AI.
"I sincerely thank the supporting institutions, including Google DeepMind, Anthropic, and AI Security Institute, for their investment in this crucial mission." - Olivia Sally
Alumni News
August 2025 Scholar Accolades
Celebrating Crystal Sanders (2001), Lydia Hollon (2017), Mukta Dharmapurikar (2022), Shiva Rajbhandari (2023), Cordelia Van der Veer (2022), Joelle Murchison (1991), David Spicer (2019), Nzinga Tull (1993),
July 2025 Scholar Accolades
Coke Scholar Accolades featuring Natosha Reid Rice (1989), Ariona Cook (2023), Vivian Nguyen (2023), Nathan Alexander (2003), & Talia Fradkin (2016).
Celebrating Coke Scholar College Graduates
Congratulations to our Coke Scholar Grads! See where they are headed next.