College of Health and Human Sciences Spring 2023 Award Recipients

Iowa State University will hold commencement for graduates on May 13. As part of the weekend, the College of Health and Human Sciences will hold convocation at 1 p.m. on Friday, May 12. This ceremony will give students and guests a more individualized celebration and it’s also where the college will honor the following graduates.

University Marshal: Audrey McMillan

Audrey McMillan is graduating summa cum laude with: a Bachelor of Science in Apparel, Merchandising, and Design; a Bachelor of Science in Spanish; and a minor in General Business. Throughout her academic career, Audrey has maintained an exceptional grade point average that placed her in the top two percent of students across two colleges, graduating with a 4.0. She has been involved in various campus leadership roles including overseeing 12 committees comprised of over 140 students as part of the 2023 Fashion Show. Audrey is an exceptional leader, a standout student and has also completed two internships within the fashion industry well preparing her for her role as Assistant Merchant for Abercrombie & Fitch upon graduation.

College Marshal: Anna Mlodzik

Anna Mlodzik is graduating magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and a minor in Human Development and Family Studies. Her positivity, optimism, and ability to listen to people is what makes Anna an exceptional student leader. She has managed the ISU Creamery, served as a teaching assistant and held various leadership positions in student organizations. Anna has contributed to research centered around nutrition and put it into practice by instructing cooking classes with the SWITCH school wellness initiative. After graduation, Anna plans to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison to achieve her master’s degree in clinical nutrition while completing her supervised practice internship hours to become a registered dietitian.

Dean’s Recognition Award: Zoe Allert

Zoe Allert is graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies following the health, well-being and prevention option of coursework. Zoe found her passion for helping others in a social services capacity after watching the COVID-19 pandemic unfold and switched her major to Human Development and Family Studies. She excelled in the classroom, with her projects ranking among the top of her peers. Zoe’s desire to continuously learn and look for ways to strengthen individuals and communities is reflected through her volunteer work and multiple internships. Combining her strong academic record with her experience and passion for helping others will serve her well as her future plans include continuing her career in the social services field upon graduation.

Dean’s Recognition Award: Blair Bell

Blair Bell is graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and a minor in Business. Blair been involved in numerous student organizations, is a top-performing student and has been a key part of the team in the Clinical Vascular Research Lab. Her contributions and leadership in the lab contributed to the preliminary data for two NIH R01 and two American Heart Association proposals that account for over $7.5 million in requested funds. Blair has the ability to combine her exceptional research skills with a bedside manner that makes meaningful connections with research participants. Her future plans are to pursue a medical degree and continue following her passion for health-related research.

Dean’s Recognition Award: Katharine Jackovich

Katherine Jackovich is graduating summa cum laude with: a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education; a minor in Learning Technologies; and endorsements in English language arts, math, reading and 5-8 algebra for high school credit. She also has a 4.0 grade point average. Katherine has earned numerous scholarships and received acknowledgement from Iowa State for her outstanding dedication to her education. Her desire to positively impact her future students led her to earning many endorsements that required additional coursework and field experiences. After graduation, Katherine will be teaching fifth grade at Radiant Elementary in the Waukee School District.

Graduating Student of the Semester

Samantha Brown is graduating magna cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Science. Her involvement on campus started her first year at Iowa State when she was elected president of her residence hall floor. The following year, Samantha got involved in the Pre-PA Club, Student Dietetics Association and College of Health and Human Sciences Council. She has also been a key member of the Iowa State Blood Drive team. The leadership opportunities and experiences add to her impressive academic record, preparing her for leadership roles as a future physician assistant and community member. Samantha will attend St. Ambrose to continue her education in their Master of Physician Assistant program.