Karen Zhang CC’26 is being recognized for her contributions in academic and community engagement at Columbia. Studying history and economics, she was a research assistant at the Journalism School for Dr. Richard John and has worked on urban and environmental research projects in the economics department. As a Laidlaw Scholar, she conducted research on testing pedagogy and economic analyses on a waterfront development project at the New York City Economic Development Corporation. Zhang also spearheaded neighborhood tours through Columbia’s Asian American Alliance, was a Matriculate advising fellow, and played music in various groups and shows on campus.