Tony Diggs Excellence Awards

This award recognizes student groups that are committed to facilitating academic interactions and student development outside the classroom to support the academic excellence of their members and community.

Undergraduate Award Recipient: App Developers Club #3492

"The App Developers Club is dedicated to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment where students from diverse backgrounds can explore and develop their practical skills in app development and technology. Our mission is to empower members to tackle real-world challenges through innovative projects and workshops while promoting civic engagement, academic excellence, and career readiness. By providing hands-on experience, mentorship, and opportunities for leadership across various domains—coding, marketing, design, corporate relations, and more—we aim to cultivate a strong community that inspires personal growth, encourages creativity, and prepares members for successful futures in the tech industry."

Graduate Award Recipient: Global Surgery Student Alliance #4330

"Their self described mission is as follows: We are a UMN student organization that brings together medical students interested in global surgery and global health. We have excellent connections to faculty, ongoing research efforts here at UMN, and collaborate frequently with our national team. We are excited to be a resource for students at UMN who are interested in global surgery and health. We believe that health is a human right and that surgical care is a part of that right. Students are interested in joining the effort and have a lot to contribute to this field, but have not yet had the opportunity."

This award recognizes student groups that provide opportunities for members to explore their future careers and build professional networks.

Undergraduate Award Recipient: Society of Women Engineers #178

"The overarching goal of SWE is to empower women to achieve their full potential in careers as engineers and leaders, expand the image of the engineering and technology professions as a positive force in improving the quality of life, and demonstrate the value of diversity and inclusion. With over 35,000 members in all 50 states and internationally, the friendships, connections, and opportunities are endless. Our chapter individually is run by a group of student officers, directors and committee members who are passionate about SWE. Events we host include general monthly meetings, professional development events, outreach events, community service events, and coffee chat mornings."

Graduate Award Recipient: Widening Access and Valuing Equity in Surgery / Association of Women Surgeons UMN Chapter #4176

"The Widening Access and Valuing Equity in Surgery (WAVES) Interest Group provides a platform that meaningfully supports medical students in exploring surgery as a viable and fulfilling career path, particularly through diverse programming and hands-on opportunities. By hosting panels, networking events, and mentorship programs, WAVES connects members with peers, residents, and experienced surgeons, offering invaluable insights into the realities of a surgical career and practical guidance for those pursuing it."

This award recognizes student groups that show a commitment to civic engagement and the civic engagement of its members.

Undergraduate Award Recipient:  Children’s Dental Health Advocates at the University of Minnesota Twin-Cities #4721

"Emphasizing the sense of community and adequate oral health within younger generations, Children's Dental Health Advocates (CDHA) drives to raise awareness about the importance of oral healthcare specifically to the lower income students that go to elementary schools in the inner-cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Through fun activities and events hosted by our members, volunteering from our club as a whole, donation of dental supplies, enjoyable educational videos, and so much more. Our mission is to showcase the importance of oral health care especially at a young age, while establishing meaningful relationships and fun memories with the youth!"

Graduate Award Recipient: American Constitution Society #809

"The mission of the American Constitution Society (ACS) at Minnesota Law is to support and advocate for laws and legal systems that redress the founding failures of our Constitution, strengthen our democratic legitimacy, uphold the rule of law, and realize the promise of equality for all, including people of color, women, LGBTQ+ people, people with disabilities, and other historically excluded communities. Within the law school, we aim to introduce law students to pressing legal issues and inspire them to advocate for justice. It is our goal to form a robust and diverse legal profession in which Minnesota Law alumni are active leaders, regardless of career path or field of law."

This award recognizes groups that build communities to create a sense of belonging for its members and the University community at large.

Undergraduate Award Recipient: Engineers Without Borders (EWB) - UMN Chapter #1469

"The mission of Engineers Without Borders USA – University of Minnesota is to partner with communities locally and internationally in order to assess and address community-identified unmet needs. We strive to implement engineering projects that prove environmentally, economically, and socially sustainable. At the core of this mission is our commitment to building strong relationships with partner communities and organizations, institutional resources (including UMN and EWB-USA), our student volunteers, and professional mentors. Both as individuals and as a chapter, we are dedicated to continually learning, improving, and adapting."

Graduate Award Recipient: Graduate Students in Education and Human Development #766

"The Graduate and Professional Students of Education and Human Development (GradSEHD) is hereby established to act as the representative organization for all graduate and professional students within the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD). The Graduate and Professional Students of Education and Human Development (GradSEHD) exists to promote the academic, professional, social, and personal goals of all graduate and professional students within CEHD."

This award recognizes groups that have an outstanding impact on the health and wellness of its members and/or community at large.

Undergraduate Award Recipient: Respectacle at UMN #4640

"Our Student group is a chapter of a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing individuals from underserved communities with access to the eye care they need and deserve. We collect donations of prescription eyeglasses, clean, photograph, and describe them so that they can be brought to our national headquarters and added to our website. Once on our website, anyone across the nation can find a pair with a similar prescription and have them delivered to their home, covering only the shipping cost."

Graduate Award Recipient: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Club #3992

"The Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Club strives to provide students in the School of Dentistry with opportunities in the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery, to learn more about principles of OMFS, explore career paths, and practice hands-on skills. OMFS Club exposes students to a broad array of topics, including dental extractions, dental implants, TMJ, orthognathic surgery, facial reconstruction, trauma, and cosmetics. The organization meets to discuss the specialty ranging from the application process, life as a resident, to the career itself. The OMFS Club is a network of support for members as they navigate ways to pursue the specialty of oral surgery, and explore ways to incorporate oral surgery into their practice."

This award recognizes groups that have gone above and beyond in supporting and developing the leadership capabilities of its members.

Undergraduate Award Recipient: University of Minnesota Robotics #2467

"Our Group Mission has three major pillars. The first pillar is to serve as the official robotics team from the University of Minnesota. We currently represent the University in 4 robotics competitions: NASA Lunabotics, RoboMaster, VEX U, and Robot in 3 Days. Secondly, we work to build a robotics community on campus. This means that we provide a space for students to come work on homework, work on robotics projects, and meet other people interested in robotics. Third, we host and attend outreach events for the public; particularly targeting the campus community as well as future members of the campus community."

Graduate Award Recipient: Phillips Neighborhood Clinic #1487

"The Phillips Neighborhood Clinic is dedicated to meeting the healthcare needs of the under/uninsured and fostering student learning through real-world, interprofessional experiences. Our mission is brought to life through continuous operation of a free clinic in Minneapolis's Phillips Neighborhood, while also encouraging every volunteer to engage deeply with the community through outreach and service. PNC prioritizes community engagement through it’s Community Advisory Board, composed of local leaders, stakeholders, and patients. The CAB provides valuable guidance and a unified network of support, helping PNC and its partners to stay attuned to the community’s evolving needs. Through this network, organizations share resources, insights, and goals to better serve the Phillips community as a whole."

This award recognizes student groups that excel in their work to create a fun, entertaining, and positive environment for its members and/or the community at large.

Undergraduate Award Recipient: Outdoors Club #3014

"We are the University of Minnesota Outdoors Club. We seek to build a community centered around the outdoors that reduces financial barriers, provides an ever-expanding education platform and seeks to connect a diverse range of students to opportunities that allow them to take what they’ve learned and share it with others."

Graduate Award Recipient: The Hospitality Center Student Group #4569

"We strive to create a welcoming and diverse community for international students and scholars by uniting cultures and celebrating various global festivals. Through acts of hospitality and shared experiences, we aim to foster a vibrant platform that embraces diversity and extends the love of Jesus Christ to students and scholars at the University of Minnesota and in the Twin Cities community."

This award recognizes groups that have a commitment to supporting issues of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice in their groups and the University community at large.

Undergraduate Award Recipient: Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE) at the University of Minnesota #2749

"SASE is dedicated to preparing Asian heritage scientists and engineers for success in the global business world, celebrating diversity on campuses and in the workplace, and providing opportunities for members to make contributions to their local communities. SASE Jr. is an initiative created to help high school students from underrepresented minorities in STEM better understand STEM fields and learn how to create their own individual impact through two discrete steps: (1) Familiarize and interest students in available STEM opportunities and careers through speakers, workshops, sponsored initiatives/programs and (2) Position them for prolonged success through continued access to collegiate mentors, guidance, and hands-on, career-building STEM opportunities."

Graduate Award Recipient: Medical Students for Size Inclusivity at the University of Minnesota #4405

"Medical Students for Size Inclusivity (MSSI) at the University of Minnesota is a chapter of the national MSSI student organization, an interscholastic community of medical students raising awareness about the interplay between eating disorders and weight bias in medicine. Our mission is to educate future physicians about the harms of diet culture and weight discrimination in the healthcare system and to advocate for equitable care on behalf of patients in larger bodies. Our goals include advocacy among current and future healthcare providers, community outreach and education, student-led research, and medical school curricular reform.
Our vision is a healthcare system that is equitable and inclusive of all patients, regardless of body weight, shape, and size. We hope to ensure that all future healthcare providers are well-equipped to recognize the signs and symptoms of eating disorders, regardless of a patient’s body size, and to advocate on behalf of these patients."

This award recognizes an outstanding advisor of a student group who has gone above and beyond to assist their group in accomplishing its mission and goals.

Undergraduate Student Group Advisor Award Recipient: Mark Hove - Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology Club #278

The Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology (FWCB) Club promotes the development of fish, wildlife, and conservation enthusiasts by sponsoring social, vocational, and educational events to bring together individuals of similar interests. Most importantly, the FWCB Club aims to prepare members for a career in the discipline by building field experience and fostering connections with future employers. Students nominating Mark wrote: 

“The FWCB Club would not be the same without Mark Hove.. He  is one of the people I will be most sad to leave when I graduate this spring, and I know this is the case for many other club officers and members who have had the pleasure of getting to know him. He gives so much of himself to the club, and he makes every club meeting a thousand times warmer and more welcoming through his openness, kindness, and enthusiasm. He has led the club for years before I got here, and I take so much comfort and gratitude from knowing that he will lead it to the benefit of even more students long after me (of course while recognizing his claim to a well-deserved, blissful retirement)... A thousand times, thank you Mark!”

Graduate Student Group Advisor Award Recipient: Dr. James Harmon - General Surgery Interest Group #4327

The primary purpose of this organization is to provide medical students an opportunity to learn about different aspects of a surgical career, support involvement in surgery-related extracurricular activities and promote medical student interest in surgery. Students nominating Dr. Harmon wrote: 

“Dr. James Harmon Jr is an outstanding physician with a background spanning multiple specialties and decades of experience educating medical students. His guidance has led the group to explore many facets of surgical education that would have been challenging or impossible working as students alone. Beyond all of this, Dr. Harmon is an incredibly kind, engaging, and thoughtful mentor. He always makes himself available for communication and has no hesitation in giving out his contact information, often encouraging students to reach out to him. Dr. Harmon tries to be more than just a professional mentor and is always eager to connect with people and really get to know them beyond their interest in medicine. Although he’s an expert in surgery, he is always willing and excited to talk about topics that are not always surgical, including history, poetry, fun family lore, and life advice. Because of this, students feel they have a mentor who genuinely cares about their success both professionally and as a person.”

This award recognizes groups that have shown exceptional planning and executing skills for one or more events hosted by the group.

Undergraduate Award Recipient: Undergraduate Surgery Interest Group #3587

"The mission of the Undergraduate Surgery Interest Group is to create opportunities for undergraduate students to understand better the field of surgery, and its role in healthcare and society. We help undergraduates explore perspectives of different specialties in this field, gain hands-on experience, and help instill the values of AAMC competencies within students. We are also a resource in providing opportunities for career development, networking with UMN faculty members, and other academic opportunities. USIG delivers a diverse array of experiences, events, and perspectives that are difficult to acquire by oneself. In doing so, we hope to cultivate inspiration and enthusiasm in the next generation of surgeons."

Graduate Award Recipient: Women’s Law Student Association #42

"WLSA is an organization of law students concerned with developing and promoting awareness of the role of women and the law within the educational and legal professional spheres. The organization shall have as its goals, (1) the improvement of the status of women as they are affected by the legal system, (2) diversity and inclusion, (3) fostering and representing intersectional feminism, and (4) creating a space where women feel comfortable, safe, and heard. To facilitate that goal, the organization shall function in the following manner."

This award recognizes groups who ensure a smooth, positive, and effective transition of officers and responsibilities.

Undergraduate Award Recipient: Science and Engineering Student Board #322

"The group’s mission is to provide resources, support, community, and advocacy for students and student groups by fostering a network of leaders within CSE and between colleges."

Graduate Award Recipient: Mechanical Engineering Graduate Student Association #4629

"We serve the students currently enrolled in the Mechanical Engineering Graduate program by providing resources to students to facilitate progress in grad school activities (course planning, qualifying exam preparation, research resources), addressing the holistic needs of graduate students (mental health, social interaction, cultural assimilation), and building an inclusive and harmonious ME community."

This award recognizes a new group on campus who has made a deep impact on the University community.

Undergraduate Award Recipient: Tech Horizons #4797

"The mission of the group is to introduce students in tech to the many ways technology intersects with other non-tech fields, including their own personal interests. We want to help find solutions for students to explore and hone their personal interests and combine them with their interests in technology, and create a diverse community of explorative and open-minded students where your interests in tech are accepted and valued as equals with your other passions."

Graduate Award Recipient: Somali American Medical Association Chapter at the UMN #4737

"Our mission is threefold:

1) To serve our undergraduate students interested in pursuing a career in medicine via mentorship, resource-driven workshops, and networking opportunities.

2) To serve our current medical students and build a sense of community via mentorship, residency planning workshops, and networking.

3) To serve the larger Somali community in Minnesota by addressing health disparities, and participating in community outreach projects."

The Student Activities Office received over 150 nominations in 12 different categories for student group contributions over the 2023-24 academic year.

African Student Association #399

Alpha Chi Sigma #233

American Constitution Society #809

American Medical Student Association – Pre-Med Minneapolis Chapter #54

American Society of Civil Engineers - Student Chapter at University of Minnesota #676

Anesthesiology Interest Group #3166

App Developers Club #3492

Black Graduate Collective #4736

Carlson MBA Association #886

CBS Events Board #4611

Children’s Dental Health Advocates at the University of Minnesota Twin-Cities #4721

College of Biological Sciences Student Board #1470

Compassionate Action for Animals #954

Council of International Graduate Students #3272

Delta Sigma Pi #34

Dental Therapy Student Association #2896

Design U #3528

Engineering World Health #1430

Engineers Without Borders (EWB) - UMN Chapter #1469

Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Biology Club #278

Frenatae: Entomology Students Association #116

General Surgery Interest Group #4327

Geography Club #4770

Global Business Nexus #4718

Global Surgery Student Alliance #4330

University of Minnesota Men’s Rugby Club #181

Graduate Society of Women in Engineering #4798

Graduate Students in Education and Human Development #766

Hindu YUVA #4362

Hmong Minnesota Student Association #291

ISPH, International Student in Public Health #4777

K-Move #4340

Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity, inc. Epsilon Chapter #355

Knitting and Crochet Club at UMN #4528

Letters of Love at the University of Minnesota #4488

Mechanical Engineering Graduate Student Association #4620

Medical Students for Size Inclusivity #4405

Minnesota Equestrian #961

Minnesota Pharmacy Student Alliance #451

Minnesota VMBA #2641

Muslim Pre-Medical Association #4748

National Association of Black Accountants #2958

Nigerian Student Association #4571

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Club #3992

Orthopedic Surgery Interest Group #2559

Outdoors Club #3014

Partners in Health Engage #3445

Phillips Neighborhood Clinic #1487

Pre-Dental Club at the University of Minnesota #977

Pre-Law Society #307

Public Relations Student Society of America #631

Respectacle at UMN #4640

Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers (SASE) at the University of Minnesota #2749

Science and Engineering Student Board #322

Seva #4693

Society of Hispanic Professionals Engineers at UMN #2344

Society of Women Engineers #178

Somali American Medical Association Chapter at the UMN #4737

Student Organization of Nutrition and Dietetics #400

Student Veteran Association of Minnesota #1474

Tech Horizons #4797

The AI Club #4652

The Enchantments #1874

The Hospitality Center Student Group #4569

The University of Minnesota Rocket Team #3033

Twin Cities Chapter of Scholars of Finance #4056

Twin Cities Rotaract #4657

Undergraduate Surgery Interest Group #3587

United Mission for Relief and Development #4239

University Honors Student Association (UHSA) #2162

University Ninja Club #4107

University of Minnesota Robotics #2467

Widening Access and Valuing Equity in Surgery / Association of Women Surgeons UMN Chapter #4176

Wilderness Medicine Interest Group #4444

Women’s Law Student Association #42

Women of Color Association #4679

World Cafe #4573

This award recognizes student groups that are committed to facilitating academic interactions and student development outside the classroom to support the academic excellence of their members and community.

Undergraduate Award Recipient: Engineers Without Borders (EWB) - UMN Chapter #1469

"The mission of Engineers Without Borders USA – University of Minnesota is to partner with communities locally and internationally in order to assess and address community-identified unmet needs. We strive to implement engineered projects that prove environmentally, economically, and socially sustainable. At the core of this mission is our commitment to building strong relationships with partner communities and organizations, institutional resources (including UMN and EWB-USA), our student volunteers, and professional mentors. Both as individuals and as a chapter, we are dedicated to continually learning, improving, and adapting."

Graduate Award Recipient: Mechanical Engineering Graduate Student Association #4620

"The Mechanical Engineering graduate program serves the student currently enrolled by providing resources to students to facilitate progress in grad school activities (course planning, qualifying exam preparation, research resources), addressing the holistic needs of graduate students (mental health, social interaction, cultural assimilation), and building an inclusive and harmonious ME community."

This award recognizes student groups that provide opportunities for members to explore their future careers and build professional networks.

Undergraduate Award Recipient: Food and Bioproducts Engineering Organization #643

"The Food and Bioproducts Engineering Organization fosters an interaction between bioproducts engineering students, builds relationships with industry connections, and offers an opportunity to participate in national events, student newsletters, and other outreach activities."

Graduate Award Recipient: Public Health Advocacy Student Alliance (PHASA) #3933

"The Public Health Advocacy Student Alliance (PHASA) student organization strives to provide students from all Health Science programs with opportunities to develop advocacy skills, practice advocacy in the community, and expand their interdisciplinary professional network. PHASA accomplishes these goals through educational training sessions, expert panels with diverse providers and community members, and hands-on volunteering events. PHASA does not take definitive positions on advocacy topics because the board wants all students to feel welcome to come and learn how to advocate for what they or their communities care about most. PHASA aims to cultivate a community of (future) healthcare providers who are passionate and equipped to address health disparities across Minnesota."

This award recognizes student groups that show a commitment to civic engagement and the civic engagement of its members.

Undergraduate Award Recipient: Railroad Club at the University of Minnesota #856

"The Railroad Club advocates on behalf of real-world transportation, land use, and sustainability, connecting its members with involvement and public outreach opportunities throughout the state."

Graduate Award Recipient: U Link #450

"U Link provides early intervention for youth who are at higher risk of experiencing homelessness, foster-care, human-trafficking, and/or involvement in the juvenile justice system in vulnerable communities. This will be accomplished through mentorship, educational workshops, research, and community awareness campaigns while partnering and collaborating with local affiliate organizations."

This award recognizes groups that build communities to create a sense of belonging for its members and the University community at large.

Undergraduate Award Recipient: College of Biological Sciences Student Board #1470

"The CBS Student Board advocates for the interests of the CBS Student Body through representation and collaboration with other organizations within CBS and with increased involvement in the greater University environment. The CBS Student Board works to provide support for student success and well-being, CBS-related organizations, and the current and future needs of CBS students to enrich their college experiences."

Graduate Award Recipient: Plant Pathology Graduate Student Organization

"The mission of the Plant Pathology Graduate Student Organization is to foster a collaborative and enriching academic environment for graduate students in the Department of Plant Pathology. The mission shall be achieved through activities for personal and professional development, leadership, and collaborative skills, including but not limited to journal club meetings, seminar exchanges, networking events, lectures, fundraising activities, social and outreach events, and others focused on plant diseases and the biology of plant-microbe interactions to ensure the sustainability of agriculture, forest, and natural ecosystems for the benefit of society."

This award recognizes groups that have an outstanding impact on the health and wellness of its members and/or community at large.

Undergraduate Award Recipient: American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA) Student Chapter #1652

"The mission of the American Dental Hygienists' Association (ADHA) Student Chapter- University of Minnesota is to cultivate, promote, and sustain the art and science of dental hygiene, to represent and safeguard the common interest of the members of the dental hygiene profession, and to contribute toward the improvement of the oral health of the public."

Graduate Award Recipient: Student American Veterinary Medical Association #319

"The Student American Veterinary Medical Association (SAVMA) exists to support, empower, and inspire all veterinary students to improve their lives, education, and careers, along with securing a better future for our profession through collaboration with our parent organization, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). The Minnesota chapter is active in community philanthropic efforts, offers student externship and travel grants, hosts informative lunch seminars, plans social events, and supports student camaraderie."

This award recognizes groups that have gone above and beyond in supporting and developing the leadership capabilities of its members.

Undergraduate Award Recipient: Society of Women Engineers #178

"The mission of the Society of Women Engineers is to empower women to achieve their full potential in careers as engineers and leaders, expand the image of the engineering and technology professions as a positive force in improving the quality of life, and demonstrate the value of diversity and inclusion."

Graduate Award Recipient: Phillips Neighborhood Clinic #1487

"The mission of Phillips Neighborhood Clinic is three-fold: We will increase accessibility of comprehensive, patient-centered, quality health services to patients with unmet needs. We will develop compassionate, culturally sensitive future health professionals in an interprofessional, team-based learning environment. We will support community partnerships and promote overall health and well-being in the communities we serve. The patients we serve at the PNC come from a diverse array of cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. Our goal in making PNC services available to our patients is to provide everyone the opportunity to receive free, quality health care regardless of their insurance situation, citizenship status, or financial background. Because our patient population is largely Spanish-speaking, we offer Spanish interpreter services every night the clinic is open. Patients visiting the clinic have access to some of the best physicians in Minnesota. Through partnerships with Fairview and surrounding hospitals, the PNC is able to offer patients nearly any lab test and many prescriptions free of cost. Patients visiting the clinic are also encouraged to take advantage of physical therapy, nutrition, and mental health counseling services. In addition to these services, the PNC offers its patients guidance in securing resources that will help patients and their families find more stable sources of health care and ways to access other community supports in an effort to help them live safe, healthy, and independent lives. Because the PNC is not meant to be a primary care facility, we do our best to help our patients take the necessary steps to find a regular source of health care. Until this is achieved, however, we owe it to our patients to provide the best care we can in a professional manner."

This award recognizes student groups that excel in their work to create a fun, entertaining, and positive environment for its members and/or the community at large.

Undergraduate Award Recipient: Black Student Union #243

"The mission of the Black Student Union is to embrace Blackness in all its forms. We strive to create unity, lift and serve the community, and set the standard of excellence."

This award recognizes groups that have a commitment to supporting issues of diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice in their groups and the University community at large.

Undergraduate Award Recipient: Korean International Student Organization #968

"The Korean International Student Group (KISO) is an organization of the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities for Korean students studying abroad and students who are interested or simply enthusiastic about Korean culture. We are a vibrant and inclusive organization that celebrates Korean heritage, fosters cultural exchange, and creates a supportive community for international students interested in Korea. KISO is more than just a student group; we are a family away from home. Our mission is to promote Korean culture, strengthen bonds among international students, and contribute to the cultural diversity of our campus and the broader community. We warmly welcome all students who have an interest in Korea, regardless of their background or nationality. KISO is committed to giving back to our local and global communities. We organize volunteer opportunities and charitable events to make a positive impact. We are also devoted to supporting the students to gain insights into Korean history, current affairs, and contemporary issues through our informative workshops and seminars."

Graduate Award Recipient: Medical Students for Size Inclusivity at the University of Minnesota #4405

"Medical Students for Size Inclusivity (MSSI) at the University of Minnesota is a chapter of the national MSSI student organization, an interscholastic community of medical students raising awareness about the interplay between eating disorders and weight bias in medicine. Our mission is to educate future physicians about the harms of diet culture and weight discrimination in the healthcare system and to advocate for equitable care on behalf of patients in larger bodies. Our goals include advocacy among current and future healthcare providers, community outreach and education, student-led research, and medical school curricular reform.
Our vision is a healthcare system that is equitable and inclusive of all patients, regardless of body weight, shape, and size. We hope to ensure that all future healthcare providers are well-equipped to recognize the signs and symptoms of eating disorders, regardless of a patient’s body size, and to advocate on behalf of these patients."

This award recognizes an outstanding advisor of a student group who has gone above and beyond to assist their group in accomplishing its mission and goals.

Undergraduate Student Group Advisor Award Recipient: Marc Skjervem - Science and Engineering Student Board #322

The Science and Engineering Student Board have this to say about their excellent advisor: “Marc offers a unique perspective to the Science and Engineering Student Board. He answers questions internally from board members about initiative-focused work within CSE, and he provides updates externally to student group leaders regarding CSE. Marc is diligent about attending weekly meetings, both with the President and Vice President, as well as the entire board. He is eager to participate in semesterly CSE Town Halls hosted by SESB, where he answers big-picture questions from students regarding student engagement and experiences.

Marc has acted as an excellent resource for conflict resolution that arises both internally and externally to the board. He advises both myself and our Vice-President in a supportive manner that is inclusive to all. Marc actively provides feedback to us and the rest of our board, encouraging our ongoing growth and success as student leaders. Even if there is an idea he does not agree with, he brainstorms alternative approaches with us to achieve our intentions. This has been especially true when student leaders are navigating difficult conversations. He is able to provide students with guidance while also giving them space to independently develop their leadership skills.
Marc encourages professional relationships between CSE Deans, staff members, and student leaders within the College. He is eager to provide introductions to help students and staff connect with intention.”

Undergraduate - Science and Engineering Student Board#322

The Science and Engineering Student Board’s mission is to provide resources, support, community, and advocacy for students and student groups by fostering a network of leaders within CSE and between colleges.

Graduate - Global Surgery Student Alliance #4330

The Global Surgery Student Alliance serves as a resource at the University of Minnesota for medical and health professional students interested in global surgery. Their goal is to educate future healthcare professionals on how surgery fits into the world of global health. 

They aim to raise awareness about barriers to affordable and quality surgical care and to cultivate a community of future healthcare professionals who are motivated to improve the accessibility of surgical care across the globe. They also connect students with mentors, opportunities, and educational experiences related to global surgery and global health.

Undergraduate - Multipotentialities in Medicine #4345

Multipotentialites in Medicine (MinMs) is a pre-health organization at the University of Minnesota Twin-Cities that aims to teach and inform undergraduate students about different multidisciplinary aspects of healthcare that can be either obtained (such as MD/Ph.D., DDS/MBA, DO/MPH, etc), practiced (such as medical sociology), or innovated (like biomedical engineering). 

They work to be a safe space for students to explore their interests and guide them in their thinking about their application progress towards their medical journey while incorporating another degree or area of expertise. 

Furthermore, to improve the skill base of those entering medical careers through education on the intersectionality of other fields (such as business, policy, law).

Undergraduate - Engineers Without Borders (EWB) - UMN Chapter #1469

The mission of Engineers Without Borders USA – University of Minnesota is to partner with communities locally and internationally in order to assess and address community-identified unmet needs. 

They strive to implement engineered projects that prove environmentally, economically, and socially sustainable. At the core of this mission is their commitment to building strong relationships with partner communities and organizations, institutional resources (including UMN and EWB-USA), their student volunteers, and professional mentors. Both as individuals and as a chapter, we are dedicated to continually learning, improving, and adapting.

Graduate - Black Doctors Association #4513

Black Doctors Association (BDA) is a student organization at the UMN - Twin Cities established in the spring of 2022 by medical students. Its mission is to create opportunities for students identifying as underrepresented in post-secondary education and medicine through community partnership. 

BDA partners with North Community High School (Minneapolis) to create drop-in mentorship opportunities for students interested in STEM; TRIO Upward Bound Vision Quest to present professional panels with University of Minnesota Law and University of Minnesota Medical students and leadership and college campus tours; Boys & Girls Club to host career interest workshops, campus tours and college preparedness discussions.

Undergraduate - Queer Student Cultural Center #238

The Queer Student Cultural Center (QSCC) aims to celebrate the diversity and culture of the queer community; educate the University of Minnesota community on issues pertinent to the lives of queer students; advocate for inclusion and equality of all individuals regardless of gender identity and sexual/romantic orientation; provide a safe space for queer students to meet and form a sense of community; and empower queer individuals, groups, and organizations.

Graduate - Phillips Neighborhood Clinic #1487

Phillips Neighborhood Clinic is to support community partnerships and promote overall health and wellbeing in the communities we serve. They increase accessibility of comprehensive, patient-centered, quality health services to patients with unmet needs. They will develop compassionate, culturally sensitive future health professionals in an interprofessional, team-based learning environment.

Undergraduate - Jazba Entertainment #3357

Jazba (a Hindi-Urdu word meaning "passion") Entertainment is a registered nonprofit organization that focuses on spreading South Asian cultural awareness through dance and the arts. 

In addition to this cultural element, Jazba proudly supports and raises awareness for the nonprofit Women In Need (WIN).

Graduate - White Coats for Black Lives #3776

White Coats for Black Lives mission is to dismantle racism and accompanying systems of oppression in health care, while simultaneously cultivating means for collective liberation that center the needs, priorities, and self-determination of Black people and other people of color, particularly those most marginalized in our communities.

Undergraduate - Recovery on Campus #4154

Boynton Health's Recovery on Campus, or Boynton Health's ROC, is a University of Minnesota student group that offers camaraderie and support to anybody who is questioning their relationship with drugs and alcohol. Staying away from drugs and alcohol is not easy, especially around a big university. 

For those trying to maintain sobriety, it can be overwhelming. For those trying to have sober fun, it can feel impossible. Boynton Health's ROC was built on the belief that we can’t stay sober by ourselves, and that we aren’t very much fun by ourselves either. So, why do it alone?

Boynton Health's ROC accepts and welcomes people with a wide range of substance use history. Whether you are an ex-heroin addict in 12-step recovery, a heavy drinker who is beginning to lose control, or a freshman who just had a terrible weekend of partying — we welcome you, no matter what happened to you, or where you come from. 

Come hang with us, relax, reach out, and hopefully, we can find a common joy in sobriety.

Graduate - Phillips Neighborhood Clinic #1487

The mission of Phillips Neighborhood Clinic is to increase accessibility of comprehensive, patient-centered, quality health services to patients with unmet needs. 

They also develop compassionate, culturally sensitive future health professionals in an interprofessional, team-based learning environment. 

Lastly, they support community partnerships and promote overall health and wellbeing in the communities we serve.

Undergraduate - Engineers Without Borders (EWB) - UMN Chapter #1469

The mission of Engineers Without Borders USA – University of Minnesota is to partner with communities locally and internationally in order to assess and address community-identified unmet needs. 

They strive to implement engineered projects that prove environmentally, economically, and socially sustainable. At the core of this mission is the commitment to building strong relationships with partner communities and organizations, institutional resources (including UMN and EWB-USA), the student volunteers, and professional mentors. 

Both as individuals and as a chapter, they are dedicated to continually learning, improving, and adapting.

Graduate - Institute for Healthcare Improvement Open School University of Minnesota Chapter (IHI UMN) #3136

Institute for Healthcare Improvement Open School aims to equip and engage interprofessional student teams in quality improvement projects within the local health landscape through mutually beneficial relationships with our community partners. 

They strive to better the health of our community and prepare future professionals to lead in the delivery of the highest quality healthcare.

Undergraduate - Indian Student Association #10

The Indian Student Association operates as a non-profit, non-political, non-religious organization, with an intent to preserve and promote the Indian culture in the University of Minnesota Community to South Asians and non-South Asians alike.

Undergraduate - Science and Engineering Student Board #322

Ben Koch

The Science and Engineering Student Board have this to say about their excellent advisor: “Ben encourages insightful conversations amongst SESB’s leadership team by asking questions that require students to self-reflect on themselves as well as SESB’s mission, vision and values. He also helps us in the planning of internal leadership development events by providing ideas for activities we can work on. He allows SESB members to flesh ideas out with him, helps members strategize their efforts for pushing change in the college, and connects members to relevant faculty and staff they can work with.”

Graduate - Phi Delta Chi Pharmacy Fraternity, Theta Chapter #532

Dr. Jason Varin

Phi Delta Chi Fraternity shared this about their excellent advisor “One of Dr. Jason Varin’s strongest attributes is his ability to encourage student development. He has always advocated for individuals to reach outside of their comfort zone and take on a new role they may be uncertain with. 

He is currently serving as one of the course directors for the first year course on ""Becoming a Pharmacist"" and he is able to make personal connections with students before they join the fraternity. 

Another thing to note about his exceptional contributions to the fraternity is that he brings in new and old alumni brothers to interact with the current chapter members and further their networking and socializing skills. He strives to give all students an equal chance of succeeding and at professional events, he takes time to talk with the students and ask how they are doing and what they are working on for projects, work, etc. I would not be the student leader I am today without the help of Dr. Varin.”