Immaculata University Honors U.S. Army Veteran Umair Ahmed ’26 with Saint Catherine of Alexandria Medal

Immaculata University named U.S. Army veteran Umair Ahmed ’26, of Chester Springs, Pennsylvania, an exercise science major with a pre-physician assistant focus, the recipient of the Saint Catherine of Alexandria Medal for the 2025–26 academic year. The award was presented during Immaculata’s Mass of the Holy Spirit on Aug. 29 on the University’s campus.

Sponsored by Kappa Gamma Pi, a national honor society for graduates of Catholic colleges, the Saint Catherine Medal is awarded annually to one Immaculata student. Following completion of their junior year, students who demonstrate deep commitments to faith, service, leadership and academic excellence are nominated by faculty and staff.

Cole Racich, PT, DPT, OCS, assistant professor of exercise science, nominated Ahmed for his discipline, humility and outstanding ability to lead by example in both academic and co-curricular settings. Ahmed is a member of Phi Epsilon Kappa, the national honor society for exercise science students and is a trainer for the University’s GetFIT program, where he works one-on-one with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He helps participants improve their strength, balance and overall well-being through personalized fitness instruction. Also a member of the Exercise Science Club, Ahmed organized the American College of Surgeons Stop the Bleed course at Immaculata University, certifying 13 students.

His interest in trauma medicine is rooted in his military and emergency service experience. As a sergeant in the U.S. Army, Ahmed was deployed to South Korea on humanitarian missions during the COVID-19 pandemic, where he provided medical relief and aid. He now serves as an EMT in his local community, delivering critical care to individuals in crisis.

“This medal represents the years of hard work, discipline and service that have shaped who I am today,” Ahmed said. “It’s incredibly humbling to be recognized for contributions that often happen behind the scenes. I see this as both an honor and a responsibility to continue living out the values of integrity, compassion and leadership.”

Ahmed plans to attend graduate school to become a physician assistant.