Pomona, N.J., May 1, 2025 — The John R. Elliott HERO Campaign is proud to announce Nastasya “Annie” Boyko of Manalapan, N.J. has been named the 2025 Stockton University HERO of the Year for her service as an outstanding designated driver for her fellow students. A second-year science major, Boyko is also a vice president for the Sigma Delta Tau sorority.

She was selected from a dozen other nominees for the prestigious award. As the HERO of the Year, her picture will be displayed on a highway billboard in the Atlantic City area and on the Stockton campus, promoting designated driving and the HERO Campaign’s mission to prevent drunk and impaired driving.

One of her nomination essays by a fellow classmate described her as a “steadfast leader and friend, exemplifying what it means to be a hero through her tireless commitment to safety and responsibility…stepping in to provide a ride in emergency situations or ensuring that her peers have safe transportation to and from events.”

Boyko also is a campus advocate for alcohol safety and making responsible choices.

Julia Brunini of Landisville was the second finalist for the Hero of the Year award. Her commitment to responsible driving was inspired by a traumatic family experience when her grandmother was involved in an accident caused by a drunk driver. A commuter throughout her college career, Julia has demonstrated time and again her dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of her friends and peers, according to her friends who nominated her.

Mia Dixon of Palmyra, N.J. was third finalist in the competition.  Known for always going the extra mile to ensure that everyone gets home safely, Mia regularly takes the lead in organizing transportation for events and in Stockton PD’s Safe Escort Walk program.

About the Stockton Hero of the Year Award:
The Stockton HERO of the Year Award recognizes individuals who go above and beyond to ensure the safety of their fellow students by serving as safe and responsible designated drivers within the university and in the wider community.