Commencement

Excellence for Impact Award Recipient: Carol Xu

The Excellence for Impact Award recognizes an outstanding M.P.H., M.S.C.I., M.S.H.I., or Ph.D. graduate who has exemplified excellence in their academic and professional achievements and whose work has the potential to impact public health or clinical recommendations. This prestigious award honors individuals who have:

1. Demonstrated excellence through academic success, an accepted manuscript in a major journal, or receipt of a grant award.
2. Potential for impacting public health by influencing policy or contributing to clinical advancements.

Carol Xu is recognized by faculty for her exceptional achievements in public health research and policy. During her Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) program, she authored two peer-reviewed publications in AJPM Focus and the American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse, showcasing her strong skills in research, data analysis, and scientific writing. Carol was among the first M.P.H. students from UTSW selected for the Archer Fellowship Program, where instructors and administrators praised her as an exemplary participant. She translated her substance use research into real-world impact through a competitive internship with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the nation's leading agency on substance use disorders and mental health conditions, gaining firsthand experience engaging with congressional representatives, legislative staff, and federal agency officials. Most recently, Carol was selected for a health policy research internship at the Cato Institute, one of the most prestigious policy think tanks in the world, which accepts fewer than 7% of applicants — a remarkable achievement for a student from a School of Public Health. Carol’s rare combination of research excellence, policy acumen, and real-world impact make her an exceptionally deserving recipient of the Excellence for Impact Award.

Community Service Award Recipient: Ada Abaragu

The Community Engagement Award recognizes an outstanding M.P.H., M.S.C.I., M.S.H.I., or Ph.D. student who has demonstrated a strong commitment to improving public health through meaningful community engagement. This award recognizes individuals who:

1. Have made a significant impact on the community through initiatives, programs, or collaborations that address public health challenges.
2. Embody the values of the O’Donnell School of Public Health (OSPH), such as opportunity, integrity, collaboration, innovation, and community service.

Ada Abaragu is recognized by faculty for her commitment to advancing public health through service, research, and community engagement. Prior to her M.P.H. studies, Ada gained valuable experience working within Rwanda’s health system, which she brought to her academic work at the O’Donnell School of Public Health. She led her team to victory in the Global Health Systems Tournament by highlighting Rwanda’s innovative public health strategies in resource-limited settings.

During her time in the program, Ada conducted research focused on improving systems for reusing qualitative data to better amplify diverse perspectives in public health knowledge. She also serves as an intern in Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins’ office, where she contributes to efforts aimed at expanding access to safe, affordable housing in Dallas County.

Ada’s broad experiences and dedication to community impact reflect her passion for addressing complex public health challenges across sectors.

Alumni Memorial Scholar Award Recipient: Victor Basil

The Alumni Memorial Scholar Award is presented annually at commencement in memory of UT Southwestern alumni who passed away during the prior fiscal year. Administered by the Office of Student Financial Aid in partnership with the Office of Alumni Affairs, the award recognizes graduating students who have demonstrated outstanding academic excellence throughout their program.

Victor Basil is a Master of Public Health candidate at the O’Donnell School of Public Health, where he has maintained a 4.0 GPA and earned the Excellence in Public Health Scholarship. At OSPH, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership as President of the Public Health Student Association and as an Archer Fellow, completing advanced training in federal health policy and producing data-driven briefs on cancer outcomes for national stakeholders. As a Graduate Research Assistant, Victor has contributed to cancer care delivery and health disparities research, including co-authoring a publication in JAMA Network Open examining access to tailored cancer resources. Beyond academia, he serves as a foster parent with the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services and as a youth mentor with Denton County Friends of the Family. Victor will continue his training at UT Southwestern this fall as a Ph.D. student in health economics and health policy. His academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to improving health outcomes make him a deserving recipient of the Alumni Memorial Award.

Hoffman Endowment Scholarship Recipient: Eyad Alrabbat

The Hoffman Endowment Scholarship is a full-tuition award recognizing students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, a deep dedication to public health, and an exceptional commitment to improving the well-being of their communities. This year we celebrate Eyad Alrabbat, who received the Hoffman Endowment Scholarship from 2023–2025.

OSPH Excellence in Teaching Award Recipient: Tammy Leonard, Ph.D.

The OSPH Excellence in Teaching Award recognizes and honors faculty at the O’Donnell School of Public Health who have made meaningful contributions to student learning through impactful, innovative teaching and a sustained commitment to continuous improvement. OSPH proudly recognizes Tammy Leonard, Ph.D., Professor of Health Economics, Systems, and Policy, as the recipient of this award.

Dr. Leonard is recognized for her exceptional impact as both an educator and mentor. Her teaching brings complex topics such as housing, economic stability, and community health to life through engaging, discussion-driven, and applied learning experiences that help students connect theory to real-world challenges.

Students consistently highlight her supportive mentorship and dedication to their growth, noting the meaningful role she plays in shaping their academic and professional journeys. Her commitment to creating an inclusive, thought-provoking classroom environment has made her a transformative presence in their educational experience.