The UW–Madison School of Nursing is pleased to announce that Ms. Edith Lawrence-Hilliard, a valued community partner, has been selected as the third recipient of the School of Nursing’s Canary Savage Girardeau Award for Health Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.
Named in honor of the School’s first African American alumnus, this award recognizes exceptional contributions to advancing health equity through inclusive nursing education, research, practice, and policy. It reflects our continued commitment to improving health for all.
Ms. Lawrence-Hilliard is a lifelong advocate for equity who has dedicated her work to uplifting marginalized voices in health, education, and civic life. She champions African American youth, family caregivers, and health equity—serving both as a research participant and a trusted community advisor. At the School of Nursing, she has contributed to the CARDS initiative, the Center for Aging Research and Education, and student mentorship through telehealth and classroom engagement. Beyond campus, she is a beloved volunteer with organizations such as Women in Focus and the YWCA.
Ms. Lawrence-Hilliard exemplifies the values of the Canary Savage Girardeau Award through her unwavering dedication to inclusion, advocacy, and community impact. She was formally recognized during the Doctoral Hooding Ceremony on May 9, 2025.
We thank Ms. Lawrence-Hilliard for her outstanding contributions to health equity, diversity, and inclusion in nursing and beyond.