The Clinton School of Public Service recently honored several graduating students from its Class of 2026 for exceptional academic achievement, research excellence, and leadership in public service during an awards reception held May 1 at Sturgis Hall.
The annual awards recognize students from both the traditional Master of Public Service program and the Clinton School Online program who have demonstrated a strong commitment to addressing complex social issues through service, research, and community engagement.
This year's honorees include:
Tarryn Harris (MPS Academic Award) – Will continue serving the state as a Research Associate at the Clinton School Impact Center.
Sarita Poirrier (CSO Academic Award) – Recognized for curriculum mastery and rigorous data analysis for her capstone organization.
Michal David Harris (Founding Dean David Pryor Award - CSO) – Recognized for bridging nonprofit field experience with advanced quantitative policy analysis.
Oladotun Awosusi (Dr. Tom Bruce International Student Prize) – Awarded for visible contributions to global peace and data-driven international development
“We are incredibly proud to celebrate these outstanding graduates who have demonstrated a profound commitment to academic rigor and transformative public service leadership,” said Clinton School Dean Victoria DeFrancesco Soto. “Their dedication to service, both here in Arkansas and around the world, serves as an inspiration to our entire community.”
Academic Achievement Awards
Among the honorees was Tarryn Harris of Nashville, Tennessee, who received the MPS Academic Award for the in-person program. Harris balanced academic excellence while working full-time during her final semester and will continue serving Arkansas as a Research Associate at the Clinton School Impact Center.
“Receiving the Academic Achievement Award means a lot to me,” Harris shared. “It has been difficult to juggle both school and work, but I'm glad to see that the work has paid off.”
Sarita Poirrier received the Clinton School Online Academic Award, which recognizes a student who demonstrates mastery of the curriculum while balancing professional and personal responsibilities. Faculty members praised Poirrier for her determination, resilience, and ability to navigate complex research and data analysis projects throughout her studies.
Professor Sunny Nillasithanukroh noted that Poirrier consistently approached unfamiliar subjects as opportunities for growth and ultimately delivered an “impeccable best-practices manual” for her capstone partner organization.
Honoring Public Service Leadership
Michal David Harris of Pine Bluff, Arkansas, was awarded the Founding Dean David Pryor Public Service Award for the Clinton School Online program. Harris, who brings years of experience in the nonprofit sector, was recognized for combining real-world field expertise with advanced quantitative policy analysis.
“Receiving this is especially meaningful given the remarkable legacy Governor Pryor built for the state of Arkansas,” Harris said. “Courses like Policy Analysis stood out because we didn’t simply write memos. We supported our findings through quantitative data and maps.”
International Student Prize
Oladotun Awosusi of Owo, Nigeria, received the Dr. Tom Bruce International Student Prize, an award established by the late founding Academic Dean Tom Bruce to honor international students who contribute meaningfully to global peace and diplomacy.
Throughout his time at the Clinton School, Awosusi focused on bridging research with real-world impact through public service initiatives and international development work.
Professor Andreas Sihotang praised Awosusi for his “sustained commitment to equality, human dignity, and the pursuit of a more interconnected world.”
“Being called to the stage to receive the Tom Bruce International Award is sincerely humbling,” Awosusi said. “This recognition is a testament to my commitment to public service and advancing work that has not only impacted local communities in Arkansas but also visibly contributes to global peace.”
As the Clinton School celebrates another graduating class, the achievements of these students reflect the institution’s continued commitment to preparing leaders dedicated to service, research, and meaningful community impact both locally and globally.