Dareen Aloudeh (Biology BS) awarded Cultural Fluency

Established in 1996, the Trustees’ Cultural Fluency Award recognizes a graduating student who has demonstrated an understanding of and appreciation for cultural and intellectual diversity during their time at the University. Individuals nominated for this award should have gone beyond the realm of academics and their immediate community of peers to form alliances, both personal and intellectual, with members of different cultures within the University and Charlottesville communities.

The committee was inspired by Dareen’s exceptional dedication to her family and to the broader Charlottesville and UVA communities. As a full-time student and hospital staff member, she demonstrates commitment and empathy through patient care and her efforts to bridge language barriers. Her advocacy for special education support, mentorship of transfer and biology students, and dedication to immigrant and refugee communities reflect strong compassion and leadership. Through peer tutoring, serving as a transfer ambassador, and supporting students as they adapt to new environments, she has made a meaningful impact by fostering inclusion. Her ability to build meaningful connections across cultures and communities distinguishes her as an outstanding representative of the Class of 2026. Dareen will be formally recognized during the Valedictory Exercises. We are proud to recognize Dareen and celebrate her selection for this well-deserved honor.