Campus News

Juniata Graduate Honored as PennACE 2024 JoAnne Day Student of the Year

(Posted February 21, 2025)

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HUNTINGDON, Pa. — The Pennsylvania Association of Colleges and Employers (PennACE) recognized Alicia Elder ’25 as the 2024 JoAnne Day Student of the Year in the Liberal Arts category. 

Alicia completed an internship with the Gift of Life Donor Program, the largest organ procurement organization in the United States, in the summer of 2024. The internship program was established in 2020 by Transplant Foundation Executive Director and former Gift of Life Donor Program President and CEO Howard Nathan ’75.  

“During this internship, she had the opportunity to witness the process of organ and tissue donation and transplantation,” said Laura Robinson, clinical education project manager at Gift of Life Institute, in her letter of recommendation. “She also observed and interacted with patients and families of both donors and recipients. This experience allowed her to develop and exhibit compassion and empathy–qualities she will carry into her future healthcare career.”  

The award, named for the late JoAnne Day in honor of her passion for education and commitment to students, recognizes the achievements and contributions made by undergraduate students who have completed internships. 

Alicia earned her degree in biology and Spanish, graduating in December.  

“As a result of my experience, I developed a stronger ability to problem solve, think critically, work with a team, and communicate effectively with people from different backgrounds,” Elder said. “The experiences I had in the operating room, in the office, in the laboratories, and even the off-site locations like the National Disease Research Interchange and MTF Biologics, all challenged me to think extensively about the role I want to have as a medical professional in the future and how I can have a positive impact on my future patients.” 

With plans to pursue a career in medicine, Alicia credits the enormous support of her faculty advisers and peer mentors in helping her make the most of her experience.  

“My goal is to obtain a degree in public health to help me better understand the needs of rural and urban areas and how to best serve them in the future as a healthcare professional,” said Alicia. “After public health, I plan to continue my journey towards medical school to become a physician in the future.”  

Contact April Feagley at feaglea@juniata.edu or (814) 641-3131 for more information.