“These projects began as the visions of passionate Penn students, now alumni, who embody the University at its finest: creative and extraordinarily committed to making a measurable difference in the world,” says Penn President J. Larry Jameson.

Wharton alumni Piotr Lazarek (SEAS’25, W’25) — representing Nirby — and Inaya Zaman (C’25, W’25) — representing Nourish to Flourish — share updates on their projects that earned them 2025 President’s Prizes.

The donor-supported President’s Prizes are the largest of their kind in higher education, and are awarded to Penn students undertaking post-graduation projects making a positive, lasting impact in the world. Each winner receives a $50,000 living stipend and $100,000 to support the development of their team’s project.

“These projects began as the visions of passionate Penn students, now alumni, who embody the University at its finest: creative and extraordinarily committed to making a measurable difference in the world,” says Penn President J. Larry Jameson. “I am deeply proud of all they have accomplished, and I look forward to seeing more of their next chapters, which are already inspiring.”

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By Brandon K. Baker

Posted: March 27, 2026

Two people working on laptops at a desk in an office setting with a projection screen in the background.
Piotr Lazarek, SEAS’25, W’25 (left), is Founder of Nirby, honored for the 2025 President’s Sustainability Prize. (Image Credit: Bowstring Studios)
Three people in winter coats walking and smiling in front of a red-brick school with a colorful mural.
Inaya Zaman, C’25, W’25 (left), is Co-founder of Nourish to Flourish, honored for the 2025 President’s Engagement Prize. (Image Credit: Bowstring Studios)

 

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