BATON ROUGE, LA — Southern University senior and Lady Jaguars softball standout Calli Schell has been selected as the Student Marshal for the Spring 2026 graduating class, an honor recognizing outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and service.
A first-generation college graduate from Kirkland, Illinois, Schell has maintained a perfect 4.0 GPA throughout her collegiate career while balancing Division I athletics, undergraduate research, and volunteer service.
Schell earned Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees from Iowa Central Community College before continuing her studies at Southern University, where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in biology with plans to enter the medical field.
Her academic workload during her senior year reflected an exceptional level of discipline and commitment. Schell completed 22 credit hours during the Fall 2025 semester and 24 during the Spring 2026 semester, while continuing to excel as a student-athlete and researcher.
On the field, Schell has become known for delivering in high-pressure moments for the Lady Jaguars softball team.
"Calli Schell has been a tremendous defensive player for the Lady Jags Softball Team," said Brittany Williams. "She has made several momentous catches, including a diving catch in foul territory versus East Texas A&M that stopped a run from scoring and a game-saving catch in the SWAC Tournament versus Alabama State to preserve a four-run lead. Calli is built for BIG moments, and we wish her the best of luck in the future."
Beyond athletics, Schell has built an impressive portfolio of research and service experience. She currently serves as an independent researcher with Louisiana Biomedical Research and DOW Sure while also working as a biology laboratory research assistant focused on cancer cell and stem cell studies. Her laboratory experience includes PCR, immunofluorescence, microscopy, and cell culture research.
She also volunteers at Ochsner Medical Complex, assisting patients and supporting hospital staff in daily operations.
Schell's honors include valedictorian recognition, Academic All-American selections, Dean's List, membership in collegiate honor societies, and numerous academic scholarships.
University officials said Schell's dedication to excellence in the classroom, laboratory, community, and athletic arena reflects the spirit of Southern University and makes her a fitting representative for the Spring 2026 graduating class.
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