Two CPH students receive Sarah Bennett Holmes 30 under 30 honors

As part of the 30th anniversary of the University of Kentucky Women's Forum’s Sarah Bennett Holmes Awards, two University of Kentucky College of Public Health (CPH) students received 30 under 30 honors. This inaugural recognition was created to honor the contributions of female undergraduate and alumni who have championed women during their collegiate or professional endeavors. 

Thelma Owiredu (CPH and the Gatton College of Business) and Princess Magor Agbozo (CPH and Lewis Honors College) were selected into the inaugural group of women to be awarded this designation at the University of Kentucky. 

Owiredu, who was born in Ghana and moved to Frankfort, Ky. during high school, said receiving the 30 under 30 Sarah Bennett Holmes award was an incredibly meaningful experience for her, especially as a first-generation college student.

“I vividly remember my first week on campus when my UK 101 professor, Ms. Kayla Gill, went out of her way to walk me to the bus stop, offering support and guidance during those early days of adjustment,” she said. “So, when I received the email notifying me of my nomination for the 30 under 30 award, I was genuinely surprised and overwhelmed with excitement. Being honored in this way made me feel truly seen and valued for my efforts. 

“It validated the hard work I've put into creating a welcoming environment for others and striving to bring out the best in both personal and academic pursuits. This recognition serves as a reminder that every small gesture of kindness and every effort to uplift others can have a significant impact. It motivates me to continue fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment within my community, both on campus and beyond.”

Agbozo, who also is originally from Ghana and a first-generation college student, said she was both humbled and honored to receive the 30 under 30 Sarah Bennett Holmes Award.

“I hope it inspires other students to work toward their goals as well as find areas where they can serve their community and create a positive impact,” she said.

Reflecting on her time at UK, Agbozo said the College of Public Health has been instrumental in helping her grow as a student, scientist, and leader. 

“I am grateful for the guidance and resources I have received from the college to be able to achieve such impactful milestones,” she said.

For Owiredu, who is pursuing dual majors in Public Health and Business Management and a minor in Economics, being enrolled in both the College of Public Health and the Gatton College of Business has been an incredibly enriching experience. 

“It has not only expanded my knowledge base but also challenged me to grow personally and professionally,” she said. “Through my studies in both colleges, I have learned the importance of patience, stepping out of my comfort zone, and embracing new perspectives. These valuable lessons have equipped me with the skills and mindset necessary to navigate the complexities of today's world.

“I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and am determined to utilize the knowledge and skills gained at both colleges to create positive change in the world.”

A celebratory luncheon was held March 27 to honor the nominees and award winners who reflect the accomplishments and legacy of Sarah Bennett Holmes. An address by UK President Eli Capilouto was followed by a keynote address from UK Dean of Students Trisha Clement-Montgomery on embracing “A New Era of You.”

Sarah Bennett Holmes, dean of women at UK from 1944 to 1957, tirelessly championed the rights of women throughout her career. Widowed at an early age, Holmes raised four children while completing her own education. She then began a successful career at the university, where she inspired young women to persevere in the face of hardship and pursue their career goals. Among her accomplishments, Holmes developed work programs for women during the Depression. In her honor, the UK Women's Forum created the Sarah Bennett Holmes Awards and since 1994 has been honoring women at UK who demonstrate the same principles as Holmes through their work and service.

Since the beginning, the UK Women's Forum has existed to create an equitable community at the University. As the role of women in the workplace continues to evolve, the UK Women’s Forum’s commitment has remained the same: creating space to discuss relevant issues and using collective problem-solving and educational opportunities to empower and champion women.

For more information about the UK Women’s Forum, visit https://www.uky.edu/womensforum/.