Junior Meredith Dauria has been selected as the Student Leader of the Month for May 2022. Originally from Plano, Texas, Dauria came to the U of A to study nursing with a minor in substance abuse disorders. She is currently involved with the Razorback Recovery program on campus and is a nursing student in Student Nurses Association, while also being a coach for intramural soccer since 2019. In addition to her involvement on campus, Dauria is an active member of Narcotics Anonymous as well as a volunteer for the non-profit Matt Adams Foundation.

Dauria said she got involved in these organizations because addiction and recovery are something she is very passionate about.

"I have been three and a half years clean from drugs and alcohol and want to help others achieve the freedom I have gained," she said. "I want to help those still struggling and show them that there is a way out."

Dauria believes that every great leader must be willing to cooperate and lead by example, explaining that "a leader cannot just sit back and expect everyone else to do the work."

Her advice to other student leaders is that not everyone is going to like everything about you, but keep being true to yourself. "Just be you, unapologetically!"

She would like to thank her former high school teacher, Jimmy Miller, for being an amazing mentor throughout her journey.

"Mr. Miller took me under his wing and showed me that you could have fun without using substances," she said. "He taught me different forms of art and would just talk about life with me. He has always believed in me and continues to show me that he does."

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.