2019 Chancellor Winner:

Nana-Hawwa Abdul-Rahman 

Nana-Hawwa Abdul-Rahman wants to use her passion for science to bring about positive change in the world. (Photo by Scott Freedman)

A chemistry major, biology minor and active researcher, Nana-Hawwa Abdul-Rahman is passionate about science. Originally from Ghana, Abdul- Rahman moved to Clifton Park at 15.

“Being here in the U.S and at UAlbany is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I refuse to squander,” she said. “Consequently, I have been fully committed to maintaining academic excellence and giving back to UAlbany as tokens of my gratitude for the opportunity to be here.”

Giving back includes tutoring other students in STEM-area courses, volunteering at the Muslim Community Center’s food pantry and soup kitchen, completing a Massry Community Service Fellowship and serving in leadership positions with Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honor Society and the Muslim Student Association, among others.

She has worked as a researcher in Professor Rabi Musah’s lab since the middle of her sophomore year, presenting her work at several conferences, including the Stanford Research Conference in March.

“The personalized mentoring I received as an undergraduate researcher in Professor Musah’s lab has had a great impact on my UAlbany experience,” Abdul-Rahman said. “I enjoyed the research I was conducting: something that developed from my curiosity, my love for science and my supportive mentor.”

After graduation, Abdul-Rahman plans to take a gap year before continuing her studies. Ultimately, she plans to find a career, likely in medicine, that combines her passion for science and humanitarianism. “I aspire to be a valuable member of society who brings about change, positivity and prosperity to the world,” she said.

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