The Student Life Award is presented to a student who best exemplifies the core values of leadership, inclusivity, partnership, and collaboration as articulated in the Office of Student Life mission and whose involvements cross organizational and departmental lines.

The student receiving this award has been a leader in almost every aspect of Student Life. From First-Year Trips to the Center for Social Impact, from the Student Organization Accountability Program and Undergraduate Finance Committee to Winter Carnival, Brandon Zhou has exemplified commitment to the Dartmouth community and the student experience.

In his work with First-Year Trips as the Hanover Crew captain and now as Associate Director, Brandon has taken on the responsibility of trying to thoughtfully recreate one of Dartmouth's proud traditions - welcoming students to campus through embracing the outdoors. since his sophomore year, Brandon served on the Student Organization Accountability Program (SOAP) Board, acting as an important resource to both student organizations and to his fellow Board members. Brandon also served as the organizational representative for Greek Life on the Undergraduate Finance Committee, which advises on the allocation of funding to many boards and advisory groups that oversee student orgization on campuse. For multiple years, he has been involved with Winter Carnival– always stepping up to help staff an event or program when he can.

At the Dartmouth Center for Social Impact, Brandon has been primarily involved with SEAD as an educational access advisor where he provides guidance to the high school scholars in their pursuit of higher education. He also traveled to Durham, England as part of a delegation representing Dartmouth at the Matariki global citizenship forum and has led a variety of youth programming and events. Brandon has served as a leader among his peers, is always the first to volunteer to help out, is exquisitely dependable, and is a fierce champion for the youth in our programs and his peer mentors.

One of Brandon’s greatest traits is his willingness to jump to be helpful whenever he can. One staff member shared this story from last summer: “Even though Brandon only had a few minutes between commitments, when we needed extra hands with something, he ran over from Robo to help for about 15 minutes. Many folks would have considered that “not enough time” to be helpful, but I appreciate that Brandon seeks to provide support for student life wherever he can.” Brandon shows up and is willing to contribute in everything that he does.

Outside of Student Life, Brandon has been integral in supporting the Greek community through the Greek Leadership Council; mentoring international students through OPAL; and being a voice for the broader student body as a delegate in Palaeopitus Senior Society.

Brandon, for all you’ve contributed to here, it is my honor to present you with this Student Life Award. As a token of our appreciation and in recognition of all you’ve given to Student Life and to Dartmouth, you are receiving a handcrafted bowl made from a local tree.