Junior Jayakumari Nair has been selected as the Student Leader of the Month for February 2024. Originally from St. Petersburg, Florida, Nair came to the U of A to study Arabic, Middle East Studies and Asian Studies. She is currently a part of the Honors College; executive board of the Diversity and Inclusion Student Council; an undergraduate representative on the World Languages, Literatures and Cultures DEI Committee; a peer mentor for freshman students through MC Retention Programs; and a Fulbright student ambassador.  She got involved in these organizations because she wanted to be able to do her part to create a welcoming and inclusive community on campus.

"I wanted to support others in getting connected with the resources to help them succeed and find a sense of belonging in the community," Nair said.

Nair believes one of the most vital qualities in a leader is to listen intentionally.

"Often we think a leader needs to tell others what to do, but a good leader takes the time to listen to others and learn from them because we all come from different backgrounds and have varying life experiences and outlooks. A leader can gain a new perspective and empower others just by listening".

She wants to encourage others to remember that their self-care is just as important as their service to others.

"You cannot pour from an empty cup. Be sure to care for yourself and only in that way can you give your best as a leader and supporter of others."

She would like to thank her mom.

"She has encouraged me and given me the best advice throughout my life. Her example of leadership, determination and resilience has taught me so much. She always sees what I am capable of, even when I can't see it for myself. She reminds me to never give up and to not let the words of others determine who I am. Most of all, she always reminds me that what I do is not only for myself, but also to be a light for others."

She would like to leave everyone with her favorite leadership quote: "A leader sees greatness in other people. He or she can't be much of a leader if all she sees is herself." -Maya Angelou

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.