Senior Talia West has been selected as the Student Leader of the Month for February 2022. After growing up in Fayetteville, West decided to stay in her hometown to attend the University of Arkansas to study marketing with a minor in event management. She is currently the marketing manager for the student-run business ForeverRed, a broadcast assistant for Razorback Sports Network, a member of the Headliner Concert Committee through University Programs, and she is in her second year of being a Walton Ambassador.

She said she got involved in these organizations because she wanted to help other students at the University of Arkansas. "Helping others be successful is my passion and I take pride in being able to help lead various campus groups and organizations," she said.

West believes the most important quality a leader should perform is leading by example. "As a servant leader, sharing power and control and listening to people is very crucial," she said. "No one wants a bossy leader or someone who will micromanage others."

Her advice to other student leaders is "don't get discouraged whenever things don't go as planned or you are faced with challenges. Stay optimistic and do your due diligence!"

West thanked her parents for being her biggest mentors.

"Anytime I face challenges, nine times out of 10 they have gone through it or they always give me the right advice to help me. They have been my biggest cheerleaders and have provided me with so many resources, tools, and connections to help me be successful."

West's favorite leadership quote comes from the late, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.: "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy."

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