School of Public Health student Lillian “Grace” Grey is recognized for making a meaningful impact at West Virginia University as a student employee. Grey, who works in the epidemiology department, received the Social Impact and Belonging Award as part of the 2026 Student Employee of the Year honors. In addition, she was selected as a runner-up in the Midwestern Association of Student Employment Administrators community service category.
In March 2025, Grey began working with Associate Professor Ruchi Bhandari as a project coordinator on a community engagement award from Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute. The nature of the project is complex in nature, because it works with a unique population that has special needs and challenges due to substance use disorder.
Through her commitment to fostering inclusive and respectful engagement with patients experiencing substance use disorder—a population that often faces significant barriers to research participation and a strong need for environments grounded in belonging and trust—Grey’s work has made an impact on the program.
Over the past year, Grey supported 15 PCORI training courses across three participant groups, three focus groups, one community health fair, and a strategic planning meeting involving patients and community stakeholders. Through her efforts, she has helped amplify participant voices and strengthen collaboration among researchers and community members, which has led to more inclusive and responsive engagement processes—reflecting outstanding social impact and belonging.
“Grace’s professionalism, diligence, proactive nature, and commitment to fostering inclusive and equitable engagement have made her an invaluable member of our team,” said Bhandari. “Her ability to build trust, promote belonging, and contribute meaningfully to complex community-based work distinguishes her as an exceptional student employee.”
Grey’s recognition highlights the important role student employees play in strengthening communities and advancing public health initiatives across campus.
Read the full article from Mountaineer ENews.