News & Announcements
2024 College of Health Sciences alumni award recipients
Sept. 20, 2024
Margo Leitschuh, BHS ’16
Outstanding Young Alumni
Margo Leitschuh (second from right) completed her BHS in Health Science in 2016 and has emerged as a national leader in college student health and well-being. She is the prevention and implementation team lead for Missouri Partners in Prevention — a coalition that includes the University of Missouri and 25 other campuses across the state — and serves as project lead for the nation’s first-ever Suicide Prevention Coalition Academy.
Her nominator, Jenna Wintemberg, said Leitschuh’s commitment to giving back is evident through her ongoing support of CHS students, whether by mentoring interns, presenting in classrooms or engaging with high school peer educators.
The Outstanding Young Alumni award goes to a graduate who is 35 years old or younger in recognition of their professional accomplishments and engagement with the College of Health Sciences.
Ebony Johnson, DPT ’19
Excellence in Mentoring
Ebony Johnson graduated with her Doctor of Physical Therapy in 2019. Since then, she has started practicing in Jefferson City and has distinguished herself as an exceptional mentor in the Pre-PT Scholars Program, which helps students prepare to apply for graduate school.
Her nominator, Donal Buckner, noted that Johnson’s mentorship “goes beyond simple advice-giving. She maintains regular communication with her mentees through monthly Zoom meetings and weekly email check-ins, ensuring that they receive support and guidance throughout their journey.”
The Excellence in Mentoring award honors an alum who is an excellent professional role model and mentor and who has demonstrated a genuine commitment to the advancement of the College of Health Sciences and its students.
Emmy Matthews, BHS ’18, MHA ’20
Excellence in Mentoring
Emmy Matthews graduated with her bachelor’s degree in Health Science in 2018 and her Master of Health Administration in 2020; she currently works as a product manager at Ludi, Inc. In addition to mentoring Mizzou teams competing in the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s “Health Leadership and Policy” case competitions, Matthews has played a pivotal role in strengthening the MHA alumni network.
Her nominator, Sue Boren, noted that Matthews has organized and managed the student-alumni mentoring program, facilitating connections that have enriched the professional and personal development of our MHA students.
The Excellence in Mentoring award honors an alum who is an excellent professional role model and mentor and who has demonstrated a genuine commitment to the advancement of the College of Health Sciences and its students.
Chris Hrouda, BHS ’87
Citation of Merit
Chris Hrouda graduated with a BHS in medical technology in 1987, and his career has seen him take on increasingly critical leadership positions. As president of biomedical services at the American Red Cross, he oversees the organization’s blood collection, testing, manufacturing and distribution, ensuring that critical blood supplies are available to millions in need, especially during times of crisis and emergency. In 2016, he was appointed chair of the Alliance of Blood Operators to promote international cooperation and strategic support.
His nominator, Alese Thompson, said Hrouda has been a steadfast supporter of the Clinical Laboratory Science program. “Chris has facilitated numerous opportunities for our students, including internships, hands-on training sessions, and guest lectures, enriching their educational experience and preparing them for successful careers.”
The Citation of Merit award is given to alumni who have made exemplary contributions, whether they be humanitarian, professional, civic or philanthropic.