ACE, Sophia Announce Carissa Bennett and Josh Vandergriff as 2023 Students of the Year

Carissa Bennett and Josh Vandergriff have been named the recipients of the prestigious ACE Student of the Year Award for their outstanding academic and professional achievements. The award, presented annually by ACE, recognizes individuals who have benefited from ACE credit recommendations for workforce or military training while demonstrating exceptional accomplishments in their community or workplace.

Carissa Bennett, a former Marine Corps member, has shown remarkable dedication to her academic pursuits despite juggling multiple responsibilities such as raising two children and building a business. She is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience with a minor in nutrition and food science at Wayne State University, where she has excelled academically and actively participates in various student organizations. Bennett’s ultimate goal is to become a pediatric neurologist and make a difference in the field of neuroscience.

Josh Vandergriff, on the other hand, completed his bachelor’s degree a year early with the help of ACE credit recommendations and went on to earn a master’s degree in public health with a perfect 4.0 GPA. He is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in health sciences and is dedicated to improving health outcomes on a local, national, and global level. Vandergriff’s commitment to academic excellence and public service has earned him recognition and admiration from his peers and mentors.

Both Bennett and Vandergriff serve as shining examples of dedication, perseverance, and passion for education. Their remarkable achievements have not gone unnoticed, and they have inspired others to pursue their academic and professional goals. The ACE Student of the Year Award is a well-deserved recognition of their hard work and commitment to excellence.