The Algernon Sydney Sullivan Awards

Grace G. Bellamy ’26 & Peerawut Ruangsawasdi ’26 - 2026 Student Recipients

Grace G. Bellamy

Grace G. Bellamy conducts her life with a spirit of love and helpfulness to others at all times. As one nominator said, “It’s not just what she does, but how she does it — with a steadiness of kindness, attentiveness and genuine care that transforms every space she is a part of.”

An aspiring pediatric dentist, Ms. Bellamy graduates with her bachelor of science degree in biology. She is “relentlessly hardworking” in pursuit of her goals, and praised for her dedication.

Ms. Bellamy accepted a position as a state officer coach and trainer with the Virginia Health Occupations Student Association (HOSA), an organization she has served for longer than her undergraduate career. Over the years, Ms. Bellamy supported thousands of students across the state, from mentoring teams to leading initiatives that impacted over 5,000 members. As the state president, she expanded membership, developed large-scale conferences and created leadership training that shaped students’ academic and professional opportunities. Ms. Bellamy was recognized for outstanding service and dedication at the Virginia HOSA 46th Annual State Leadership Conference.

According to a nominator, “In high-pressure environments, where logistics and outcomes could easily take precedence, Grace remains grounded in empathy. She leads in a way that makes others feel seen, supported and capable of more than they thought possible.” Whether volunteering in the intensive care unit at Sentara Regional Hospital, mentoring students in public health programs or working with Girl Scouts, Grace “consistently shows up with humility and care.”

Ms. Bellamy excels in scholarship and as a mentor for others. A student who benefitted from Ms. Bellamy’s leadership in William & Mary’s evolutionary genetics lab wrote that “her friendship and mentorship have had an extremely meaningful impact on my confidence and growth, both in the lab and as an individual.” Another nominator familiar with her work on the executive board of Kappa Delta Sorority shared that Ms. Bellamy “ensures that every life she touches knows how valuable they are.” A colleague shared that, “she brings a quiet attentiveness that reflects a deep respect for the dignity of every person she encounters.”

Even as she closes this chapter in her academic and professional journey, Ms. Bellamy leaves in her wake “a smile and a heart-shaped mark in everything she does.”

Peerawut Ruangsawasdi

Peerawut Ruangsawasdi leads with a “clear sense of purpose, quiet humility and consistent focus on the greater good.”

Mr. Ruangsawasdi approached his studies in government and public policy with a “wonderful sense of sustained curiosity.” As a member of William & Mary’s accelerated Master of Public Policy program, Dean’s List student and participant in the highly selective Global Research Institute's Global Scholars Program, colleagues praise his exceptional dedication. Immersed in complex issues of international security and American statecraft, Mr. Ruangsawasdi brings academic rigor, intellectual curiosity and analytical precision to understanding global challenges.

Mr. Ruangsawasdi’s experiences beyond the classroom underscore his dedication to public service. As a communications intern with the United States Senate, he contributed to policy and media relations at the national level. For Diplomatica Global, Mr. Ruangsawasdi reported on diplomacy, global affairs and cross-cultural dialog. A nominator writes that in each setting, “he has demonstrated maturity, adaptability and a commitment to amplifying important voices.” He brought the same level of journalistic integrity to the Flat Hat, where he served in many roles including chief of staff.

“Peerawut does not work for himself,” wrote a nominator, “he works for William & Mary.” In roles spanning the Office of the Provost, University Advancement and Student Assembly, to name a few, Mr. Ruangsawasdi helped shape institutional priorities, advocate for student needs and impact the future of academic programs. On the Undergraduate Honor Council, he upheld university values of integrity and accountability.

Fluent in Thai and English, Mr. Ruangsawasdi also dove into the study of the German language and culture. As a teaching assistant for German Studies, he not only studied the principles of foreign language acquisition, but conducted his own classes once a week. In the words of an advisor, “Peerawut exemplifies the best of a traditional liberal arts education.”

“What distinguishes Peerawut most is his character,” said a nominator. “Across his many roles, he approaches his work with integrity and … he consistently prioritizes the collective good over personal recognition.” The Alma Mater of the Nation is proud to recognize Mr. Ruangsawasdi’s influence for good.