Crain’s Chicago Business recently recognized former and current Northwestern students on its annual “20 in their 20s” list, which honors local individuals under 30 who have made significant accomplishments within their industries.

The students recognized include one current undergraduate, one graduate student and four NU alumni.

Weinberg senior Zoe Damacela, a fashion entrepreneur, was named to the list for her work in the fashion business. Damacela has been featured on the cover of Seventeen magazine and will continue her career at Macy’s, Inc. after graduation.

Graduate student Sam Barnett was also recognized for his work as the CEO of SBB Research Group. Through his position, Barnett will collaborate with film distributor AMC Theatres to assess the ways individuals react to movie trailers. Barnett is also working toward a doctorate in neuroscience and finance.

Four other NU alumni were also given the honor, including Matt Bogusz (Weinberg ’09) the mayor of Des Plaines, Illinois. During his time in office, Bogusz has shortened the time it takes to get a business license and increased the budget for infrastructure improvements, among other accomplishments.

Mert Iseri (McCormick ’11) and Yuri Melina (Weinberg, ’11) were recognized for a company they co-founded called SwipeSense Inc. The device works as a portable hand sanitizer that clips onto clothing. The device is for use in hospitals in an effort to ensure proper hygiene is maintained.

Tristan Meline (Communication ’07) made the list for his contribution to MillerCoors, where he works as the associate marketing manager. Meline was responsible for guiding a multi-million dollar ad campaign for the company’s in-house line of hard cider. 

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