In the News

New American Scholars is proud to announce that its founder and president, Riyah Patel, has been named a finalist for the esteemed Dartmouth Health Community Impact Social Justice Award. This recognition highlights Patel's commitment to closing the achievement gap between refugee students and their American-born peers in New Hampshire, through various academic and social programs.

About the Dartmouth Health Community Impact Social Justice Award

As Dartmouth Health marks the first anniversary of its Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB), they aim to celebrate local heroes who are making significant contributions to a more just and equitable society. "Our BIPOC ERG is truly 'walking the talk' of our DEIB mission, and our upcoming Community Impact Social Justice Awards is an outstanding example of this group showcasing the individuals making our communities better," said Teresa Dean Malcolm, MD, FACOG, MBA, vice president of DEIB at Dartmouth Health.

The Community Impact Social Justice Awards are sponsored by Dartmouth Health's Black, Indigenous, and People of Color Employee Resource Group (BIPOC ERG). The awards are divided into three categories, recognizing a community member, a youth community member under age 24, and a Dartmouth Health employee who have demonstrated exemplary social justice actions.

How New American Scholars Fits the Criteria

New American Scholars has been unwavering in its mission to empower refugee students in New Hampshire through a range of in-person and virtual academic programs in reading, writing, Language Arts, math, and science. Through academic assistance, social support, and peer mentorship, the organization has enabled refugee students to successfully transition into their school communities and take agency over their learning and lives.

"It's an incredible honor to be recognized as a finalist for such a prestigious award," said Riyah Patel. "This not only validates the work we're doing at New American Scholars but also shines a spotlight on the urgent need to support the educational development of refugee students in New Hampshire and beyond. We remain committed to our goal of reaching every refugee family across our state and, soon, nationwide."