Marriott School of Business
BYU students from the Global Supply Chain Association and Black Student Union partnered up to collect and donate shoes to children in Africa. The two groups made a goal to collect 2,500 pairs of shoes but through advertising and event appearances, they ended up being able to collect around 6,000.
The donated shoes have provided children in Minna, Nigeria with high-quality shoes to wear at school and for sports.
The idea originated from Courage Tamakloe, a global supply chain management senior from New Jersey who was inspired by BYU basketball player Gideon George. George is from Africa and grew to love basketball after receiving a pair of donated shoes.
“When I looked at the photos and saw the old shoes being replaced by the new shoes, the soles of the old shoes had holes or were being held together with strings,” said global supply chain management associate professor Scott Webb. “The photos that touch my heart the most are those of the mothers looking at their children’s new shoes. Our students have impacted the lives of thousands for the better.”
College of Family, Home and Social Sciences
BYU sociology and Spanish student Jordan Coburn has balanced being a mother of four, an English tutor and earning her graduate degree, all within five years. Not only that, but she remained involved in extracurriculars such as the BYUSA Student Advisory Council, as well as the Graduate Student Society presidency.
Coburn’s decision to come back to school was not an easy one, but with help from her husband, classmates, professors and thesis advisor, she found encouragement.
“I feel like my education at BYU has overall made me a better person. It has made me more kind, compassionate and willing to understand people and their backgrounds and struggles,” Coburn said.
College of Life Sciences
Microbiology student Seth Evans decided he wanted to pursue medical school after he broke his femur during a high school football game. His relationship with his orthopedic surgeon at the time, along with a BYU education have allowed Evans to see the possibility of becoming a physician himself.
One of Evans’s favorite parts of his BYU education has been working in the Grose lab with BYU microbiology professor Julianne Grose. He appreciated the opportunities for autonomy and engagement the lab offered.
“She’s so encouraging, and she makes sure you have every opportunity to grow. I’ve learned so much in that lab,” Evans said about professor Julianne Grose.
