Thamesh Ramjit Student Philanthropist of the Year Award

Purpose

The Thamesh Ramjit Student Philanthropist of the Year Award recognizes and celebrates one outstanding student at Florida State University each fall semester who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to the values of philanthropy, service, and leadership within the student community. This award is named after and dedicated to Thamesh Ramjit, a beloved member of the Student Foundation from 2024-2025.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Must be a third- or fourth-year student at Florida State University.
  • Demonstrated commitment to advancing a culture of philanthropy among peers and within the campus community.
  • Actively involved in student initiatives, organizations, or projects that emphasize giving back (time, talent, or resources).
  • Must be in good academic and disciplinary standing with the university.

Selection Committee

Applications will be reviewed by:

  • Florida State University Student Foundation Board of Directors
  • Sarishni Patel, Assistant Vice President of Advancement, Annual Giving
  • Alanna Kibiloski, Student Affairs Senior Director of Development

Application Process

  • Interested students must submit:
    • A completed application form
    • One video essay responding to the prompts listed below
  • The video response may be up to 3 minutes in length (maximum).
  • Applicants should be in business professional attire while filming video responses.

Video Essay Questions

Applicants must answer the following prompts in the video submission:

  1. Defining Philanthropy:
    What does philanthropy mean to you personally, and how have you embodied that as a student at Florida State University?
  2. Impact and Leadership:
    Describe a specific project, initiative, or involvement where you demonstrated leadership in advancing student philanthropy. What impact did it have on the community?
  3. Future Commitment:
    How do you plan to carry forward your dedication to philanthropy beyond your time at FSU, and why is this commitment important to you?

Recognition

  • One student will be awarded the Thamesh Ramjit Student Philanthropist of the Year Award each fall semester.
  • The recipient will be recognized at the annual Student Foundation Philanthropy Banquet
  • Awardee will also receive a commemorative plaque and recognition.