Psychological Sciences' 2026 Distinguished Graduates in Psychology

The University of San Diego Department of Psychological Sciences is proud to recognize three exemplary students who have earned the title of Distinguished Graduate in Psychology. These individuals, Ashley Biolsi, Madeline Breaux and Delaney Paulus, have not only excelled in the classroom but have made contributions to research, clinical practice and the USD community. As they prepare to take their psychological expertise into the world, we celebrate their achievements and the bright futures ahead of them.

Ashley Biolsi

BA in Psychology, Minor in Philosophy | Spring 2026 Graduate

Ashley Biolsi graduates this spring with a record of deep departmental service, having served as a biopsychology TA and research assistant. Her journey was shaped by a strong interest in clinical psychology and mental health, fostered by the close-knit faculty. "One of my favorite memories at USD has been getting to know the psychology department more closely through my classes, professors and TA experience," Biolsi notes.

A pivotal moment for Biolsi was taking Careers in Psychology with Professor of Psychological Sciences Jennifer Zwolinski, PhD, which she describes as the most impactful learning experience of her career. "This class helped me better understand the different paths within psychology and gave me the guidance and confidence to get involved in research," she explains. Biolsi is now bound for the University of Southern California (USC), where she will pursue a master’s in marriage and family therapy on a scholarship. 

Her parting advice to her peers? "Get involved, ask questions, and build relationships with your professors and classmates... Be open to learning more about yourself along the way."

Madeline Breaux

BA in Psychology | Fall 2025 Graduate

Madeline "Maddie" Breaux, originally from Louisiana, found a second home in San Diego's coastal beauty and USD's academic rigor. Having completed her degree this past fall, Breaux has already begun applying her psychological training to a marketing and brand development role with USD alumnus William Routt '16 (BBA).

During her time on campus, Breaux was a pillar of the community, involved in Psi Chi, Pi Beta Phi and Peer Counseling. Her most profound academic growth occurred in the lab. "The most impactful research experience that I had was working with Dr. [Zwolinski] on both my BURST and STAR research projects," she shares. "I grew so much as a researcher and person in so many ways during this time, and I will forever be grateful for Dr. Z’s mentorship!"

As she reflects on her undergraduate years, Breaux cherishes simple moments as much as major milestones: "Watching the sun set behind the Immaculata from Maher every night is something I’ll never forget, and seeing Ross Lynch perform on campus was definitely a core memory."

Delaney Paulus

BA in Psychology, Minor in Spanish | Spring 2026 Graduate

Delaney Paulus’s undergraduate experience is a testament to the power of broad perspectives. From studying abroad in Madrid to her impactful work in the "Black Families" course, Paulus has focused on viewing communities through a strengths-based lens. "I learned how to critically read journal articles, better understand underrepresentation in research and view communities from a strengths-based rather than deficit perspective," she reflects.

Paulus also highlights the technical rigor of the department, specifically her time in the summer bootcamp led by Assistant Professor of Psychological Sciences Steven Berkley, PhD. "Learning how to clean, analyze and interpret data allowed me to better understand the full research process, moving beyond simply reading studies," she says. This technical foundation will serve her well at the University of Arizona, where she will begin a master’s in clinical mental health counseling this fall.

Paulus encourages future students to cherish the USD size: "At a smaller school like USD, you have the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with faculty... These connections can open doors to research opportunities, strong letters of recommendation and guidance."