Senior Marilu Torres has been selected as the Student Leader of the Month for March 2021. Originally from Lowell, Torres came to the U of A to study human nutrition and dietetics. She is a volunteer at Arkansas Food Recovery Group and the Norwest Arkansas Food Bank. She is the student liaison for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and serves as the assistant newsletter editor for Latinos and Hispanics in Dietetics and Nutrition with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. She's also part of the U of A Student Dietetic Association.

Torres said she got involved in these organizations "to build meaningful relationships with students, the community, and professionals." She also wanted to show her passion for dietetics with actions.

Torres believes some of the most important leadership qualities are having empathy, being confident and communicating freely.

"The most important characteristic of being a leader is being able to guide others to meet goals and make a bigger impact," she said.

Her advice to other leaders would be to embrace uncomfortable situations, as they build your confidence and help you succeed more.

Torres' favorite quote regarding leadership is from Margaret Mead: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."

Torres thanked Mechelle Bailey, former director of the Didactic Program in Dietetics at the U of A, for being a mentor to her after transferring to the U of A.

"I appreciated her constructive advice, and it motivated me to push myself and become a leader."

The Student Leader of the Month award, sponsored by New Student & Family Programs, recognizes U of A 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.