Sarah George, a B.A./M.D. student minoring in chemistry, is one of seven recipients of the 2026 Remington R. Williams Award and the only student selected from UMKC this year. The award honors exceptional student leaders who demonstrate outstanding character, collaboration and meaningful contributions both inside and outside the classroom.

Named in memory of Remington Williams, a former UMKC student representative to the UM Board of Curators, the award is one of the UM System’s highest non-academic honors, celebrating students who embody compassion, leadership and dedication to student success. Each recipient receives $1,000 and a student-designed medal to wear at commencement.

George has distinguished herself through extensive leadership and advocacy work. She serves as president of several organizations including Days for Girls, the OB/GYN Interest Group and the American Medical Women’s Association at UMKC, focusing on menstrual health equity, mentorship and advancing women’s healthcare education.

Here’s an excerpt from the UMKC School of Medicine letter nominating George: "As the Founder and President of the Days for Girls chapter at UMKC, she established the university’s first medical-student–led chapter of a global nonprofit dedicated to menstrual health access and education. Under her leadership, students mobilized to assemble and distribute hygiene kits, conduct campuswide education initiatives and partner with local shelters and nonprofits to address period poverty. This work not only embodies the university’s mission of service and engagement but has also helped destigmatize women’s health issues within both academic and underserved communities."

The Remington award recognizes George’s leadership and advocacy efforts, particularly her work advancing women’s health and addressing gaps in care, which has been especially significant for George.

“This recognition is deeply meaningful to me, especially in the context of my work in menstrual health equity and women’s healthcare advocacy,” George said. “I am honored to be part of a system that elevates this kind of work and I remain committed to using every platform I have to expand access, advance equity and ensure dignity in healthcare for all patients.”

Victoria Garrett, education team coordinator for the School of Medicine, noted in her nomination letter that George’s leadership in several student organizations has impacted both these causes she works on and the students she works alongside.

“Through this work, she has championed menstrual equity, mentorship, women's health education and inclusive leadership,” Garrett said. “She advocates for a holistic college and professional school experience that brings together academics, service and community engagement."

George said that leadership has been important to her because it has allowed her to turn service into meaningful action for both patients and fellow medical students.

“I have taken on roles that strengthen the student experience, foster collaboration among peers and extend advocacy in women’s health beyond the classroom,” George said. “Through these experiences, I have learned that leadership is not defined by position alone, but by consistent action, accountability and a commitment to serving others within and beyond medicine."

Garrett also mentioned in her nomination letter George’s natural leadership skills while providing mentorship to her peers.

"One of Sarah's most striking strengths is her leadership which involves her commitment to mentoring and student engagement,” Garrett said. “She is deeply organized, dependable and generous with her time, frequently offering support to peers navigating the demands of medical school. Students are drawn to Sarah not only because of her experience, but because of her kindness and approachability. She listens attentively, offers thoughtful guidance and models collaboration in every interaction."

Faculty mentors also praised her collaborative approach to research and learning.

“Sarah is one of the brightest and most collaborative researchers I’ve had in my lab,” said Gary Sutkin, vice chair of education for obstetrics and gynecology. “We conduct our research in inter-disciplinary teams. Sarah is both an active listener and frequent contributor. Her intellectual curiosity is infectious, and she is the first to volunteer for tasks while involving other students in our lab.”

Award recipients are nominated by faculty, staff or fellow students and are selected for their lasting impact across the UM System. George’s recognition reflects both her leadership at UMKC and her commitment to advancing equitable healthcare and student success.

“I also feel deeply grateful for my faculty mentors who have supported and nominated me, and I recognize that I would not be in this position without their guidance, encouragement and investment in my growth."