Junior Sara Feather has been selected as the Student Leader of the Month for January 2021. Originally from Searcy, Arkansas, Sara came to the University of Arkansas to study communications with a biology minor. She currently works with research under Susanne Striegler, a professor of organic chemistry. Sara is also a Student Alumni board member, a Panhellenic delegate for Phi Mu, Order of Omega member, and event coordinator for Lambda Pi Eta.

Sara said she got involved in these organizations because she "didn't know that many people here at the University of Arkansas, but I was eager to get plugged into campus." Through her involvement, she has made lifelong friends and connections that, to her, truly embodies the meaning of a Razorback Family.

Sara believes one of the most important qualities and characteristics of a leader is to be an active listener. To her, leadership is not just about stating her own opinions, but amplifying the voices around her too. Sara's advice for other students is "don't let anything hold you back!...You have to get out of your comfort circle to grow as a leader."

Sara's favorite quote regarding leadership is from John F. Kennedy: "Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other."

Sara would like to thank her parents for always supporting her in all her endeavors. "Even when I face a setback, they are the ones encouraging me to still achieve my goals," she said.

The Student Leader of the Month award, sponsored by the New Student & Family Programs office, recognizes University of Arkansas undergraduate students for their excellence in leadership through campus involvement, leadership activities, or through volunteer and community service. More information about the award can be found here.