Lucy Cunliffe Awarded Chancellor’s Medal for Excellence in Undergraduate Research at UVA Wise

The University of Virginia’s College at Wise (UVA Wise) proudly recognizes Lucy Cunliffe as the recipient of the 2026 Chancellor’s Medal for Excellence in Undergraduate Research, one of the institution’s highest honors for undergraduate scholarship.

The Chancellor’s Medal is awarded annually to a student who demonstrates exceptional academic achievement and a sustained commitment to research beyond the classroom. Recipients are nominated by a faculty mentor following the completion of an outstanding research project, and their work is evaluated by the Undergraduate Research Council for its merit, originality and impact.

Cunliffe, a mathematics major with a concentration in data science and a minor in exercise science, was selected for her exemplary research accomplishments and dedication to academic excellence throughout her undergraduate career.

“Winning this award is a huge honor,” Cunliffe said. “All of the hard work, dedication and learning has led to this moment, and it feels very special to have that recognized. I am very proud to have been chosen and dedicate this award to those who supported me on this amazing journey through undergraduate research.”

During her time at UVA Wise, Cunliffe distinguished herself both in and out of the classroom. She credits the College for providing transformative opportunities that shaped her academic and personal growth.

“UVA Wise really has become a second home for me,” she said. “It has brought me so many opportunities as well as a second family. It has allowed me to push myself personally and academically, and that confidence and resilience is something I will take with me for the rest of my life.”

Cunliffe’s research was conducted under the mentorship of Yasasya Batugedara Mohottalalage, UVA Wise assistant professor of applied mathematics title whom she describes as an invaluable source of guidance and support. She also expressed appreciation for the department of mathematics and computer science, as well as numerous campus offices and programs that contributed to her success, including Residence Life, the Office for Advocacy and Opportunity, Student Affairs and the Academic Success Center.

Cunliffe is also the inaugural recipient of The Robert F. Stallard Fellowship in STEM, and her research projects have been focused broadly on understanding the pathology of atherosclerosis in humans. 

“I chose this research in medical fluid dynamics as it lies at the heart of cardiovascular health issues for millions of people worldwide. My goal is to advance the understanding of cardiovascular function to improve the lives of patients while increasing efficiency of resource utilization,” says Cunliffe.  

Cunliffe’s research as a Stallard fellow centered on using patient-derived datasets to explore the predictive value of demographic data on stroke prevalence. This required mathematical modeling to understand the impact of different plaque-buildup shapes on blood flow dynamics. To complete the research, Cunliffe became skilled in multiple programming languages to model atherosclerotic blood flow behavior using the Finite Element Method and Navier-Stokes equations. She is currently in the process of drafting a manuscript detailing her work for publication.

In addition to her academic achievements, Cunliffe is a member of the women’s tennis team, balancing the demands of collegiate athletics with her rigorous academic and research commitments. She plans to pursue a Ph.D. in aerospace engineering, with the long-term goal of becoming a professor in mathematics.

“Lucy is so deserving of the Chancellor’s Medal. Her research into fluid dynamics of atherosclerosis have the potential to impact health care in the future. I know that Lucy will be successful as a faculty member after she earns her Ph.D. following graduation in May 2026,” adds UVA Wise Chancellor Donna P. Henry. 

Reflecting on her undergraduate experience, Cunliffe emphasized the lasting impact of the community she found at UVA Wise.

“My whole time here has been filled with learning, growing and enjoying the little moments,” she said. “I am so grateful to the professors, staff, teammates and friends who made my time here so influential. I will miss you all so much.”