During our Commencement 2025 weekend, we were proud to recognize outstanding award winners from the School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). Each of these individuals has not only excelled in their fields but has also demonstrated a deep commitment to making a positive impact in their communities and professions.
Graduate Academic Scholar Award: Vashti Torres
Vashti Torres graduated from American Military University (AMU) with a bachelor’s degree in environmental science in April 2023. After retiring from 20 years of service in the Army in June that same year, Vashti immediately pursued a master’s degree in environmental policy and management, focusing on environmental sustainability. She also completed a graduate certificate in fish and wildlife management in December 2024.
Throughout her education, Vashti stayed motivated by the support of her family, friends and the flexible nature of AMU’s programs. As the first in her immediate family to pursue higher education beyond high school, Vashti found strength in the encouragement of people in the University community. The faculty were particularly instrumental, providing relevant, engaging content during her courses.
After her retirement from the military, Vashti began working at a local public library, where she found a new passion. She now plans to pursue a master’s degree in library and information science, combining her love for reading and learning with her commitment to natural resource protection and sustainability.
Her goal is to advocate for innovative solutions to mitigate climate change impacts within the community. An avid reader and amateur photographer, Vashti also enjoys capturing moments during long hikes, combining her appreciation for nature with her creativity.
Vashti’s guiding philosophy is that we should always leave things better than we found them, focusing on improving our environment and processes. This mindset drives her to inform and empower her community to adopt sustainable practices.
Vashti’s advice to future students is to learn from everyone. She emphasizes that fellow students have valuable insights and perspectives that can offer new ways of thinking and problem-solving. Her academic journey taught her the importance of understanding multiple viewpoints, as decisions made from a single perspective often fail to address broader implications.
Undergraduate Academic Scholar Award: Stephen Ridenour
Stephen Ridenour graduated with a bachelor’s degree in space studies from APU in February 2024, achieving a 3.77 GPA. His passion for space began in his youth, fueled by a fascination with rockets and an active imagination.
This interest evolved in 2017 when he became captivated by SpaceX’s innovations, particularly the reusability of the Falcon 9 rockets and the development of Starship. It was during this time that Stephen set his sights on a career in launch operations.
However, Stephen’s path was not without its challenges. As the first in his immediate family to attend college, he faced uncertainty about how his academic journey would unfold.
Living in West Virginia – a state without a launch industry – Stephen initially struggled to find local opportunities. Consequently, he networked with people from aerospace companies and has learned that achieving his goals requires persistence and resilience.
Stephen’s guiding philosophy is grounded in his Christian faith, particularly the principle of treating others as he would like to be treated and the belief that perseverance and strength can overcome life’s challenges. He believes that no obstacle is insurmountable if you remain determined and committed to your goals.
As part of his academic journey, Stephen participated in the NASA L’Space Mission Concept Academy and was selected as the Deputy Project Manager of Resources. This experience further confirmed his commitment to a career in aerospace.
Stephen credits his professors and the knowledge gained at APU for equipping him with the skills and excitement necessary to pursue his dreams in the aerospace industry. Now, Stephen’s motivation is stronger than ever, knowing that every challenge faced along the way has brought him closer to his career aspirations.
Outside of academics and his professional ambitions, Stephen enjoys creative writing, video gaming, spending time with his family, and volunteering at his church.
Stephen’s advice to future students is simple: “Stay focused, pay attention in class and never give up.” He emphasizes that while online learning can be challenging, determination and sacrifice are necessary. He believes the sacrifices made during school are temporary and well worth the investment in your future.
Voices of Impact Award: Dr. Leslie Pang
Dr. Leslie Pang began his professional career in the federal government, first serving as an engineer and systems analyst at the Department of Transportation. Later, he moved to the Department of Defense, where he became a professor at National Defense University.
After retiring from government work, Dr. Pang transitioned to teaching. He joined the University in 2008 and currently teaches a variety of STEM courses.
Outside of his academic work, he volunteers his time with the American Red Cross at the Walter Reed National Medical Center and at the Montgomery MedStar Medical Center in their emergency department. In his free time, he enjoys running, biking and gardening.
Dr. Pang attributes much of his resilience to the support of his spouse and his strong religious convictions. Both have provided him with the strength to navigate difficulties throughout his career and life.
Dr. Pang’s guiding principle is simple yet powerful – “Always do the best you can!,” a philosophy that he strives to live by in both his professional and personal life. He believes that maintaining high standards and striving for excellence, no matter what challenges in life you face, is key to achieving success.
About the School of STEM
The School of STEM is a dynamic academic community committed to innovation, discovery and problem-solving. With a focus on preparing students to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world, the school emphasizes critical thinking, creativity and collaboration.
Across a diverse array of scientific and technical disciplines, students are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to drive progress and make a meaningful impact. Through hands-on learning, cutting-edge research, and interdisciplinary collaboration, the School of STEM prepares its graduates to seek leadership opportunities in the ever-evolving fields of science and technology.
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