News & Announcements

Health Sciences recognizes 2023 award recipients


May 17, 2023


The Department of Health Sciences has revealed the winners of its 2023 awards. These awards are designed to acknowledge the achievements, character and commitment of DHS students, faculty and staff.

This year’s winners are:

Madelyn Bogler
Academic Achievement Award: Madelyn Bogler

The recipient of this award demonstrates academic excellence in all aspects of the Health Sciences curriculum, including grades, classroom participation, research involvement and/or lab work. The recipient takes full advantage of educational experiences in class, on campus and beyond.

The award is available to students who meet the following criteria:

  • Senior standing.
  • GPA of 3.75 or higher.
  • Proven record of curricular involvement within the classroom and beyond.
Madelyn’s future plans:

“After graduation, I will be staying in Columbia and attending the MU School of Medicine to become a physician. I am beyond excited and am looking forward to the next four years!” “


Brayden Cox
Intern of the Year Award: Brayden Cox

The recipient of this award demonstrates a strong commitment to professional development as a student intern enrolled in Health Sciences 4975. The recipient is open to feedback, promotes a positive work environment and seeks opportunities for growth while advancing the organization’s mission.

The award is available to students who meet the following criteria:

  • Senior standing.
  • GPA of 2.75 or higher.
Brayden’s future plans:

“My post-graduation plans are not concrete. I’ve been concentrating on getting the most out of my internship and courses during my final semester here at MU! I’d love to work as a corporate wellness coordinator for an organization in my hometown of Kansas City, or perhaps work in the nonprofit sector — it is a good match for the many skills I gained throughout my internship.”


Katie Jennings
Spirit of Achievement Award: Katie Jennings

The recipient of this award demonstrates unwavering positivity toward the program and student(s) career goals. Additionally, the recipient has demonstrated a supportive attitude toward their peers and service to others within the program. This student is an outstanding representative of DHS, SHP and MU within the local and distant community.

The award is available to students who meet the following criteria:

  • Senior standing.
  • GPA of 2.75 or higher.
  • Involved in activities that advance the reputation and standing of the department, school and university. These may include leadership, student activities, research, conferences, educational outreach or community service.
Katie’s future plans:

“My plans after graduation include attending the UMKC School of Dentistry this fall and eventually working in rural public health.”


Kevin Gold
Truman Award: Kevin Gold

The Truman Award recognizes a student who has demonstrated the strength of character and determination that is exemplary of a Missouri Tiger. The recipient of this award has successfully overcome obstacles while pursuing their education.

The award is available to students who meet the following criteria:

  • Senior standing.
  • GPA of 2.75 or higher.
Kevin’s future plans:

“After graduation, I plan to continue my education in the Mizzou Department of Public Health. As an MPH candidate, I also plan to continue working for the University’s Health and Behavioral Risk Research Center to gain more experience in the field.”


Faculty Staff Award: Dr. Molly Vetter Dreier

The Faculty Staff Award recognizes an outstanding DHS faculty or staff member who has made a significant impact on students and the university through teaching, research, mentorship, service and/or professional development. This individual is committed to the department’s mission and seeks every opportunity to advance that mission among students and the academic community.

Dr. Vetter Dreier served her department in outstanding ways this academic year. Some of her accomplishments include: serving as a FIGs instructor, being an active member of the onboarding and mentorship committee and participating in the search committee responsible for selecting an incoming teaching faculty member. 


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Molly Vetter Dreier

Molly Vetter Dreier

Associate Teaching Professor