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Congratulations to Zariah Walker who was named the winner of ����ý’s Student Talon Award. Walker recently received the award during Florida Atlantic’s Alumni and Community Engagement Talon Leadership Awards ceremony as part of Homecoming 2024.

The annual event honors outstanding faculty, students, alumni, and community members who demonstrate exceptional leadership and service to ����ý. Walker, an undergraduate in the Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, is majoring in health science with a concentration in behavior and mental health.

“Being named the 2024 Student Talon Award winner is truly an honor. To me, this award reflects not just my leadership, but the values I strive to live by - compassion, service, and resilience,” shared Walker. “I’ve always believed that leadership isn’t about titles, but about the impact you have on others and the way you inspire those around you. This award isn’t just about me - it’s a reminder that the true essence of leadership lies in service to others.”

Whether she’s guiding first-year students through orientation, creating spaces for creativity and unity, or serving her peers through advocacy, Walker aims to uplift and empower others. She is an active member of numerous ����ý groups, including the Black Student Union, Community Service Club, and First and Proud. In addition, she serves as president of Kohesion Step Team and is the team lead for Konbit Kreyol Dance Troupe. Walker is also a member of Tri-Alpha First-Generation Honors Society, Medi-futures, and National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.

“Each of these roles allows me to serve and advocate for our diverse campus community,” stated Walker.

As a health science major with minors in psychology and health administration, Walker is dedicated to a field focused on improving well-being and supporting others.

“Florida Atlantic provided me with the ideal environment to grow academically and personally,” said Walker. “This path aligns with my commitment to making a meaningful difference. I’m thankful for the continued support from my Florida Atlantic community. Their guidance has been instrumental in helping me pursue excellence and navigate my journey as a first-generation student.”

Walker is also a Kelly/Strul Emerging Scholar recipient. Established in 2017 by then-����ý President John Kelly and his wife Carolyn Kelly, together with Boca Raton philanthropists Aubrey and Sally Strul, the Kelly/Strul Emerging Scholars Program assists academically talented first-generation, low-income students to graduate debt-free from Florida Atlantic in four years or less.

“The Kelly/Strul Emerging Scholars Program has been pivotal in supporting my path as a first-generation student,” expressed Walker. “����ý’s resources and community have made it possible for me to overcome challenges and build a new future for my family. I’m grateful to be part of an institution that truly values students from diverse backgrounds.”

After her graduation in May 2025, Walker intends to create a positive and lasting impact in her future career - possibly as an Air Force medic officer and later as a traveling nurse.

“I want to lead by example in whatever I do,” said Walker. “This award is motivation to drive change in ways that matter most to me and those I serve.”