CVM students recognized with Algernon Sydney Sullivan, President’s awards
Two soon-to-be College of Veterinary Medicine graduates were recognized with university-level awards on Wednesday, highlighting their leadership and community impact during their time as students.
Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award
Marissa Pellis, DVM Class of ’26, is the recipient of the 2026 Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award, which recognizes individuals who represent Auburn University through humanitarian leadership and community contributions.
Pellis was selected for her collaborative work to establish an American Sign Language (ASL) elective for veterinary students.
While working at a veterinary clinic in her hometown, Pellis had to reach out for support to help communicate with a deaf client. That moment sparked in her a lasting commitment to help make veterinary care accessible for all.
Pellis studied ASL while pursuing her undergraduate degree, but the demands of vet school left little room to continue formal ASL classes. Recognizing the difference it could make, Pellis worked with faulty and community partners to bring an ASL course to the CVM that focused specifically on terms relevant to the veterinary field. Her efforts are helping bridge the language gap between future veterinarians and the Deaf community.
“As a hearing person immersed in Deaf culture, you gain such an appreciation for it, and it opens your eyes to the need that’s there,” Pellis said. “It’s so encouraging to know that this degree is so much more than just a way for us to earn a living. There is so much of a difference that we can make in the veterinary field beyond the science and medicine.”
President’s Award
Ashley Duncan, DVM Class of ’26, was selected as the College of Veterinary Medicine’s winner of the President’s Award. The annual award honors one student from each college who exemplifies the Auburn ideals of leadership, service and scholarship.
“It’s kind of a pinch yourself type of situation,” Duncan said of the honor. “It’s nice to see what you look like through somebody else’s eyes.”
Throughout her time as a student, Duncan actively pursued opportunities to put her textbook knowledge to work outside of the classroom. She stretched herself by traveling to Portugal for a wildlife course on wild African hoof-stock. She deepened her love for aquatic animals by tackling AQUAVET courses through Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine and completing externships at the Georgia and Shedd aquariums. And she earned Auburn University’s microcredential in aquatic animal medicine.
Duncan held leadership roles in several student organizations, including serving as president of the Veterinary Business Management Association and treasurer of World Aquatic Veterinary Medicine Association. She was also a member of VetaHumanz, a science education outreach program.
Pellis and Duncan are set to graduate with their Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees on Monday, May 4, at 6 p.m. in Neville Arena.