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Elaijah Lapay
2024 Undergraduate Student Recipient
Elaijah is an outstanding undergraduate student studying an individualized degree in migrant health and healthcare with a focus on studying migrant healthcare access. He is unwavering in his dedication to addressing pressing social issues and improving the lives of those in need.
As the Research Team Lead and Distribution Day Coordinator for the Root Causes' Fresh Produce Program (FPP), Elaijah has played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of this important initiative. His efforts in coordinating produce distributions to over 350 Durham-area families, conducting research, and facilitating volunteer activities have had a profound impact on addressing food insecurity and promoting health equity in our community.
Furthermore, Elaijah's involvement in Bass Connections, Duke Service Learning, and the Duke Margolis Center for Health Policy showcases his dedication to advancing research, community engagement, and public health. Throughout his time at Duke University, Elaijah has served as a beacon of inspiration and compassion. In the words of Kathy Sikes, Director of Service Learning,
“Elaijah's commitment to community is also recognized by community partners. His deep connection to Durham and his dedication to service reflect his genuine passion for making a difference in the lives of others.”
The primary nomination letter contained testimonials from community partners that have worked with Elaijah, with Willis Wong saying,
“From our time together, Elaijah has embodied an unyielding dedication to community service, thoughtful impact, and partnership building through the Fresh Produce Program. Elaijah is consistent and hardworking, operating in leadership roles beyond the expectations of an undergraduate. He has helped bridge partnerships between our program and the Spanish Learning courses at Duke and facilitated our relationship with local organizations like El Centro Hispano. Elaijah uses his fluency in Spanish to help our Spanish-speaking participants feel welcomed. The rapport and trust he has built with this community has been invaluable to our organization's service to them.”
Elaijah's passion for service extends beyond the confines of academia, as evidenced by his role as a Pediatrics Community Resource Navigator Intern at the Lincoln Community Health Center. In this capacity, he has provided invaluable support to pediatric patients and families, addressing non-clinical social needs and advocating for holistic health and well-being.
Today, as we honor Elaijah Lapay with the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award, let us celebrate his remarkable achievements, his steadfast dedication to service, and his profound impact on the Duke University community and beyond. May his legacy continue to inspire us all to embrace the spirit of service and compassion in our own lives.