Congratulations to Hannah Volpert-Esmond and Sonia Giron who are recipients of the Graduate Excellence in Diversity Award.

The following are combined comments from the Committee for Diversity and Inclusion regarding Hannah's efforts and interests.

Hannah is a very strong candidate for this award. Hannah has consistently dedicated herself to understanding racial disparities experienced by Black youth at Mizzou. She has led several focus groups discussing issues of racial disparities with Black youth and has incorporated this into her active research. Her research record is impressive and demonstrates her commitment to better understanding the impact of race and discrimination on mental health. Hannah is the perfect finalist for this award, and I have no doubt she will continue to work positively mentoring students, including students from underrepresented backgrounds.

The following are combined comments  regarding Sonia's efforts and interests.

Sonia's work as a student fellow at the Cambio Center and her research on the influence of cultural factors on well-being clearly demonstrate her commitment to working with immigrant and Latinx communities. I'm sure she will continue her great work in her post-doctoral position.  Sonia is clearly dedicated to enhancing our understanding of racial disparities, which shines in her research and mentorship.

Congratulations!