A Muslim senior at Elmhurst University has been named the 2022 recipient of the Abraham Lincoln Civic Engagement and Student Laureate Award.
Hiba Anees received the award presented by The Lincoln Academy of Illinois in late November from Elmhurst University President Troy D. VanAken, Elmhurst.edu reported.
Anees, of Woodridge, Ill., said it was “amazing” to win the award because it illuminates how the University has nurtured her throughout her time as a student.
“I love the community here and how I can be involved and feel that my voice is being heard, and that what I say matters,” she said.
“To be honored for representing Elmhurst means so much to me.”
The annual award is given in recognition of students’ leadership and service in the betterment of humanity, and for overall excellence in curricular and extracurricular activities.
Each student laureate received a $500 Abraham Lincoln Civic Engagement Award, a Lincoln medallion, and a certificate of merit signed by Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker.
Activist Student
Anees has been active on campus as a student leader. She served as president of the Student Government Association and as a member of the executive team on the Union Board. She is also a Student Ambassador.
Anees plans to become a special education teacher and hopes to stay connected to the University.
“I can do a lot as a teacher but can do even more as a leader,” she said.
There are several other success stories of Muslim students worldwide.
Last July, Lava Haji was named the 2022 student of the year in the Netherlands, in recognition of her talents.
Fareedah Oyolola from Lagos, Nigeria, was named one of the world’s brightest students by the Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth (CTY) in August 2021.