The Thomas L. Reynolds Center for Graduate Life & Learning (CGLL), in conjunction with partner and sponsor Raju Law, is proud to announce that Giovanna Yumi Scorsim Omura is the recipient of the second annual Campus Superhero Award, which includes a $500 gift card, for her efforts in going above and beyond to help her fellow graduate students.
More than 50 nominations were received, with both students and faculty highlighting the incredible work their peers and pupils do to support UNC Charlotte’s graduate scholar community.
In particular, Omura received praise for helping international students overcome the challenges of starting life in the United States. She established connections with incoming scholars while they were still in their home countries, providing them with important practical information and a point of contact before they even set foot on the UNC Charlotte campus.
Once they arrived, Omura ensured these students were settled in: putting together “starter kits” of basic necessities, offering advice and helping with the overwhelming housing search. “She has even housed visiting international students when necessary to help them while they find housing,” writes one nominator.
“She patiently guides people on how to adjust to the student environment in Charlotte, gives tips on places to visit and things to do and happily introduces us to her own group of friends who engage us and make us feel less alone,” says another. “She truly goes above and beyond. Giovanna has been a true heroine for everyone who has had the opportunity to cross her path.”
The Reynolds CGLL extends a warm congratulations to Omura, and a heartfelt thank you to Raju Law for making the Campus Superhero award possible.