Student Life Achievement Awards | 2021

5 Spectrum LGBTQ+ and Allies Association—College of Optometry Spectrum LGBTQ+ and Allies Association of Nova Southeastern University’s College of Optometry is an optometric student organization that focuses on outreach to the LGBTQ community regarding the importance of ocular health and routine eye examinations. Spectrum also aims to educate professionals within the field of optometry on contemporary health issues within the LGBTQ community. The club features guest speakers to provide information on interactions between optometry professionals and the queer community; volunteer outreach at LGBTQ health-related events; and an inclusive, educational environment for all interested in expanding cultural awareness. Specifically, Spectrum has provided free vision screenings at the Pride Center in Fort Lauderdale, delivered transgender and LGBTQ humility training for students and faculty members, and attended Pride events in South Florida to promote NSU and the field of optometry. American Pharmacists Association Academy of Student Pharmacists (APhA-ASP)— College of Pharmacy APhA-ASP held about 40 events in the past year, including training sessions. It also doubled the number of members this year and successfully moved from in-person to virtual events. As to community service, it hosted three immunization drives and coordinated efforts with Baptist Health to engage in COVID-19 vaccination efforts. APhA-ASP’s greatest involvement and contribution to Nova Southeastern University is putting students at the center of all its efforts. APhA-ASP supported the members’ learning skills by hosting training sessions, including one on Narcan that provided Narcan certificates upon completion. All APhA-ASP’s efforts have had one focus: the students’ success during pharmacy school and after graduation. APhA-ASP has attempted to prepare students for their pharmacy careers and instill in them the love and importance of community service. Graduate Association of School Psychology (GrASP)—College of Psychology Graduate Association of School Psychology (GrASP) provides opportunities that promote awareness of the educational process and mental health needs of children and adolescents through various initiatives. During the 2020–2021 school year, GrASP focused on diversity and inclusivity awareness to ensure all students’ needs were being met. These initiatives impacted students from the pre-K to graduate level on NSU campuses and in the surrounding communities. GrASP developed the Diversity and Social Justice Chair position and committee. The Diversity Revered: Exceptional Alumni Mentoring Students (DREAMS) mentorship programwas developed to provide students, especially those of color, with increased opportunities for collaboration and support. In partnership with the Office of Student Disability Services, GrASP developed the Inclusion Awareness Fair, which provided students with opportunities to learn about inclusion in the community and explore resources available to NSU students. TBR Pediatrics Club—NSU Tampa Bay Regional Campus The TBR Pediatrics Club was founded just one year ago and, since then, has grown into a successful organization that is engaged in the Tampa Bay and Nova Southeastern University communities. Quickly after being founded, TBR Pediatrics Club formed lasting connections with the Ronald McDonald House and the local Boys & Girls Club through monthly virtual volunteer events where the pathway to a career in medicine was discussed. TBR Pediatrics Club also gives back to the Tampa Bay community through volunteering with ChickTime, a local nonprofit for young women who have been victims of abuse. In addition, the club has been graciously welcomed in the John Hopkins All Children’s network via attendance at their grand rounds and conferences, exemplifying two of NSU’s Core Values, Scholarship and Research. Evening Law Students Association (ELSA)—Shepard Broad College of Law Run by the students, for the students, the Evening Law Students Association (ELSA) is focused on the support and well-being of part-time students. ELSA quickly adapted to distance learning and created a Mentor Program and Wellness Committee, assisting incoming (and existing) students in engaging with their peers and providing themwith opportunities and resources to practice self-care through their education. ELSA’s ideals of community and mental wellness were best reflected through their student- hosted exam study sessions, virtual yoga, professor-moderated cooking shows, and organized community service events. The mission of ELSA is to advocate for the part-time students who juggle work, school, and other responsibilities and provide themwith a support system of individuals who understand their unique and rewarding journey at Nova Southeastern University’s Shepard Broad College of Law. 2021 NOMINEES FOR NSU Graduate Organization of the Year