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's mission and who’s involvements cross organizational and departmental lines. 

This year’s recipient has been a courageous and caring advocate, especially for the underrepresented and underserved. The mark this student has made transcends many facets of Student Life at Dartmouth: as a Collis Manager, introducing folks to a space that is so central to campus and to Student Life; as a member of student organizations Questbridge and the Latine and Caribbean Council; and as a co-moderator of Palaeopitus Senior Society, to name a few.

But perhaps the role that most demonstrates her dedication to bettering the Dartmouth community has been with Dartmouth Student Government. From senator, to Chief-of-Staff, to now as outgoing vice-president, Kiara Ortiz has exemplified what it means to be a leader who can bring together different voices and perspectives in an effort to find consensus and move things forward. Whether it is through collaborating across areas on creating better avenues for access to mental health resources or leading efforts to implement free laundry service and the voucher program for Dartmouth Coach fees, Kiara has consistently centered the voices of underrepresented students, especially those from low-income backgrounds, ensuring they are seen, heard, and supported. 

Her commitment to service extends into her academic interests as well, working in healthcare at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and with aspirations to go into the medical field to better the communities in which she is a part.

There are so many other ways Kiara has contributed at Dartmouth: as an Orientation Leader, as an Office of Admissions blogger and tour guide, and supporting Dartmouth Votes initiatives, among so much more. But one of the most powerful ways Kiara has impacted Dartmouth is through her attitude: she is constantly challenging herself and has a clear desire to alway learn. And she seems to do everything with a smile on her face. If you see Kiara, and you’ve met her before, she will always extend a hello, whether you have known her for years or just met her once. 

Kiara, you have truly made Dartmouth a better place for not only students but for the staff and faculty who have had the honor of working with you throughout your time here. It is our 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 this handcrafted bowl from a local tree.