Annual Award Recognizes University’s Top Students for Excellence in Academics, Leadership, and Service
ORLANDO, Fla. -- UCF Athletics proudly celebrates the achievements of three standout student-athletes—Austin Bennett (Spirit Team), Anderson Rosa (Men’s Soccer), and Julia Going (Rowing)—who have been inducted into the 2025 Order of Pegasus, the university’s highest student honor. The award was presented at UCF’s annual Founders’ Day Student Honors Celebration, recognizing students who exemplify the values of academic excellence, leadership, and community impact.
For undergraduate students, this esteemed honor recognizes exceptional academic excellence, leadership, active university involvement, and meaningful community service. For master’s, doctoral, professional, and M.D. students, the Order of Pegasus highlights remarkable academic accomplishments, professional leadership, impactful community service, and innovative research or publications.
The 2025 Order of Pegasus class—37 students in total—embodies the highest ideals of what it means to be a UCF Knight. With a combined GPA of 3.89, this year’s honorees are driving progress across fields such as engineering, healthcare, hospitality, and the humanities. Through their dedication, passion, and contributions to both local and global communities, they are enriching the human experience and meeting the challenges of our world. Many are also engaged in hands-on research, uncovering new knowledge and contributing to broad-based prosperity.
Austin Bennett, a spirited leader on the UCF Spirit Team and a student in the College of Sciences, has served as an ambassador for Knight Nation through his campus involvement and mentorship. His dedication to school pride and service has made a lasting impact across the UCF community.
Anderson Rosa, from the UCF Men’s Soccer team and College of Sciences, has excelled as both a scholar and athlete. His academic performance is matched by his commitment to serving others, including volunteer work and leadership efforts supporting youth development initiatives.
Julia Going, a rower and student in the College of Engineering and Computer Science and Burnett Honors College, balances a rigorous academic load in engineering with research contributions and leadership roles that advocate for women in STEM and campus inclusivity.
UCF’s Founders’ Day, held annually on the first Wednesday of April, is a celebration of excellence across the university. The Student Honors Celebration not only recognizes Order of Pegasus inductees but also highlights recipients of outstanding theses, dissertations, and individual college awards.