Rishabh Mahendra, a doctoral student in Agriculture and Applied Economics, was named one of the first seven recipients of the Remington R. Williams Award by the University of Missouri Board of Curators.

In honor of Remington R. Williams, student representative to the UM Board of Curators from 2020 until his death in June 2022, the award recognizes exceptional student leaders who excel in and out of the classroom with the utmost integrity across the UM System. Recipients must display a positive impact on our institution, inspire growth and development of their fellow students in both academics and extracurricular activities, and always exhibit outstanding character and a collaborative spirit.

Mahendra is the founder and the first president for Universities Fighting World Hunger-Mizzou, a global higher education movement focused on educating, mobilizing and organizing students, faculty and administrators in the war against hunger; president of the Division of Applied Social Sciences’ Graduate Student Association; and director of the Deaton Scholars Program at Mizzou, in which student teams use creativity to solve socioeconomic and environmental issues around the world.

“I had a heartfelt conversation with Remington’s father, and he shared something that deeply resonated with me. Remington had written about leaving a legacy on his wall, and I found a profound connection to that sentiment,” Mahendra said. “Our world is filled with remarkable individuals who are making a positive impact, and I am fortunate to have learned from their incredible examples. With this award as a reminder, I am inspired to continue my journey and strive for even greater achievements. I solemnly pledge to honor Remington’s legacy in my own unique way, dedicating my life to serving others, uplifting society, and most importantly safeguarding our precious environment.”