Lena Rammouni knows that seemingly small acts can have a significant impact. She saw how compassionate care helped her father — once very sick and unable to get out of bed — first use a wheelchair and now walk with a cane.

“When there is kindness and connection, trust is built. I saw how my father’s physicians provided him with those things. And it has really helped him thrive,” Rammouni said. “I want to be someone who makes that type of difference in someone’s life too.”

Rammouni — whose goal is to become a doctor — has volunteered with Kindred Hospice and Cass Clinic, which allowed her to engage with and provide care and compassion for those in need.

A multiple Dean’s List recipient, she looks after students on campus too. She served as the president of Phi Delta Epsilon, an international medical fraternity with the goal of preparing pre-medical students for the medical field. In addition to leading the organization, she helped lead fundraising efforts for Children's Miracle Network. She also served as a supplemental instructor for abnormal psychology and was instrumental in launching the new behavioral and biological science major.

And to learn more about interpersonal relationships, Rammouni has conducted research with human connection in mind. She presented her findings at various conferences, including the Midwestern Psychological Association annual conference.

“My involvement in research and various organizations has left a lasting impact on my character,” she said. “I put my best foot forward when it comes to serving others.”