Anderson named USI 2016 President's Medal recipient

Maria A. Anderson will receive the President's Medal, the highest honor presented to a graduate in the Class of 2016, during the Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education and Outreach and Engagement Commencement ceremony on April 30, 2016. Anderson is graduating with a Bachelor degree in Biology with a 3.9 GPA and is working toward a Master of Health Administration degree.

She is described by one of her professors as, "insightful, positive and always giving her all," and by another as, "driven by curiosity and a love for learning and understanding systems that are complex." These comments reflect well her efforts to both further her education and to become a better physician.

Throughout her time at USI, Anderson has displayed dedication and professionalism in her pursuit to learn, specifically in her participation in the Early Undergraduate Research Program, where her efforts provided an opportunity to present her data at the Indiana Branch of the American Society for Microbiology meeting, where she received a USI Endeavor Grant.

Observed as someone who works hard to help other students in their coursework, Anderson displays a genuine concern about the people around her. This is representative of her desire to be a physician, who will work with patients and their families to create a balance of health and wellness.

Also, while at USI, she has been an active member of the Gamma Phi Beta sorority, where she served as financial vice president; the National Society of Collegiate Scholars; the USI Strategic Planning Committee; and as an AMIGO (student orientation leader). She also is a member of the Student Ambassador Organization, where she has served as president, and currently is serving on the Pott College Student Advisory Board as the biology representative.

Anderson is a member of the Honors Program and has been recognized with many accolades while at USI, including a Presidential Scholarship, Distinguished Sophomore Award, Fraternity and Sorority Life New Member of the Year, Fraternity and Sorority Life Officer of the Year, oral and poster presenter at the Indiana Branch of the American Society of Microbiology, Homecoming Court Representative, and Early Undergraduate Research participant.

She volunteers her time as a leader with USI's Camp Eagle, as a Student Ambassador and as a YMCA Group Exercise Instructor. She also is a member of the Pre-Professional Health Club, and is a student worker in Admissions.

Anderson is the daughter of Ralph and Angie Anderson of Evansville. She has one sibling, Phillip, a graduate of the USI Nursing Program, and currently is working toward his Nurse Practitioner degree at USI. After graduation, she plans to complete a Masters of Health Administration degree at USI, while attending Indiana University School of Medicine.