Megan Benkendorf, a senior in applied mathematics with minors in music, computer science and physics from Cape Girardeau, Missouri, has been named Missouri S&T’s Renaissance Student for 2025. The award, which includes a $1,000 prize, was presented Monday, May 5, by the arts, languages, and philosophy department.

The Renaissance Student Award recognizes a senior who excels in multiple intellectual or artistic disciplines. Benkendorf has been deeply involved in the arts at S&T as a flautist, founding the Woodwind Choir, leading in the Miner Marching Band, and performing in multiple ensembles. She also served as a swing dance instructor, glassmaking teaching assistant, and held leadership roles in the math club and Kappa Kappa Psi.

Aaron Brown, a senior in ceramic engineering with a music minor from Lansing, Kansas, was named runner-up. A trombonist and first chair in the University Wind Symphony and Jazz Ensembles, Brown also worked as a composites engineer for the Formula SAE team, conducted undergraduate research, and has made the Dean’s List every semester. He plans to pursue a doctorate in materials science.