SUNY Old Westbury student Melodie Cadichon, a Biochemistry major who completed her studies in May, was named the first recipient of the newly established "Dr. Henry Teoh Award for Outstanding CSTEP Graduating Senior" — a $1,000 annual award that recognizes exceptional achievement, leadership, and promise within the University’s Collegiate Science and Technology Entry Program.
As a high-achieving scholar and a passionate advocate for her peers, Cadichon not only excelled in the classroom but served as a dedicated tutor and student leader within CSTEP. Her role as a representative of the campus’ American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology chapter helped forge stronger connections between that organization and CSTEP.
“Melodie represents everything this award stands for — academic excellence, leadership, and the pursuit of knowledge that drives meaningful change,” said Nora Bassett, chair of the Old Westbury College Foundation, which secures and manages scholarship support for SUNY Old Westbury students. “Her success is a reminder of the extraordinary talent and determination within our student body.”
Her commitment to research has been equally impressive. Under the mentorship of Associate Professor Youngjoo Kim, Cadichon presented her work at the SUNY Undergraduate Research Conference, the national ASBMB Conference in Chicago, and numerous symposia on campus. This fall, she will continue her academic journey at Penn State University, where she will pursue an advanced degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
The award was made possible by a generous donation from Distinguished Service Professor Emeritus Henry Teoh, the founder and former director of the campus’ CSTEP, which will create an annual award to support outstanding CSTEP students for the next 15 years.
When asked what inspired him to create this award, Teoh shared: “I have always lived by these words. It comes from a Chinese Proverb. ‘If you are planning for a year, sow rice. If you are planning for a decade, plant trees. If you are planning for a lifetime, educate people.’”
Teoh's efforts and leadership as the CSTEP director impacted the lives of hundreds of students - empowering them to excel in their studies and pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. His gift extends this commitment to education and Old Westbury's students for years to come.
According to Bassett, this award not only celebrates the outstanding accomplishments of students like Cadichon but also reflects the power of faculty impact and philanthropic support in shaping future leaders in science and beyond.
“We are deeply grateful to Dr. Henry Teoh for his generous and thoughtful support of our students,” said Bassett. “Dr. Teoh’s focus on student accomplishment and future potential reflects the very heart of our mission—to empower scholars to reach their fullest potential and become leaders in their fields. This award not only honors an exceptional student like Melodie, but also serves as a powerful call to action. We encourage other alumni, faculty, and friends of the University to join us in supporting the Old Westbury College Foundation and investing in the success of our next generation of changemakers.”