Meet the 2025 Ablah Award winners

Each year at commencement, one male and one female student are awarded the Ablah Awards. The awards perpetuate the vision of entrepreneurism and the American dream. Allie Johnson, an elementary education graduate, won the Leona J. Ablah Award and chemistry major Corbin Molina won the Harvey J. Ablah Award.

Molina balanced starring in multiple theatrical performances as well as the rigor of Newman’s science coursework, all while graduating in just three years. He plans to work at OxyChem in Wichita and pursue a master’s degree in nuclear engineering.

“Winning this award shows I’ve made a positive impact,” Molina said. “It reminds me I can be a light — in theater, science or whatever path I choose — and live up to the dreams others see in me.”

Johnson was known for her outstanding service both in campus clubs and giving back to the community. She started her position as a first-grade teacher in August at Westmoreland Elementary in Manhattan, Kansas.

“I want to be remembered for being the voice that others need to make a positive change in this world,” Johnson said. “I’m super excited to give back, not only to my family, but to the community back home.”