PHOTO: Seniors Joi Latson (far right) and Stephanie McMillan (second from left) in Uganda when they spent time learning about health care in Kamuli.

Two Global Resource Systems students—Joi Latson and Stephanie McMillan—have been awarded CALS Council Senior Awards.  The CALS Council Senior Awards recognize graduating seniors who have gone above and beyond while attending Iowa State.

Joi Latson, senior in Global Resource Systems and World Languages and Cultures (Languages and Cultures for Professions – Spanish), minor in Nutritional Science, has been awarded the CALS Council Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion Award.  The Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion Award recognizes a student who has fostered an environment to encourage diversity with CALS and ISU.

Latson has devoted her entire undergraduate career in CALS to fostering an environment that encourages diversity and inclusion.  As a freshman, Joi was selected as an NCORE scholar and continued her involvement, raising awareness of race and ethnicity at ISU the three years following.  In her time at Iowa State, Latson has also been involved with ISU’s Womyn of Color chapter for four years as a member, secretary and executive board member.  As a student ambassador for World Languages and Cultures, she hosted events specifically for CALS students in WLC courses to encourage them to gain a WLC minor or major, so as to learn about cultural-competence, diversity and operating as a professional in different cultures. Latson, a George Washington Carver Scholar, has served on the ISU GWC advisory board for three years.  Her commitment to understanding and encouraging diversity is outstanding and unique.

Stephanie McMillan, senior in Global Resource Systems and Agricultural and Life Sciences Education, has been awarded the CALS Council Distinguished Service Award.  The Distinguished Service Award recognizes a senior who has dedicated their time to better their community through community service activities and organizations.

McMillan demonstrates a sincere commitment to service and has truly made an impact on our ISU, local Ames, and global communities.  On campus, McMillan has participated in philanthropy with two sororities.  During her time as President of Alpha Gamma Delta, the sorority raised over $2,000 for charities committed to addressing diabetes.  She has volunteered for over three years with Arc of Story County, coaching four sports of Special Olympic athletes and co-teaching a semester-long nutrition course to adults with disabilities.  In 2018, she was recognized by Arc of Story County as the Volunteer of the Year 2018.  McMillan also participated in and led research and service efforts pertaining to sanitation, hygiene, and medical eye care in rural Ugandan villages. Her accomplishments truly demonstrate her dedication to service in our local and global communities.

Congratulations, Joi and Stephanie!