Tyra Marrs Named University of Miami Graduate Student Employee of the Year

As part of her award, Marrs will receive a scholarship and a nomination for the National Student Employment Association's Student Employment of the Year (SEOTY) Award. This selection was managed by the Office of Student Financial Assistance and Employment.

“I am so honored to receive this recognition – It means a lot to me, and I am truly grateful for the support and encouragement from everyone in our department. I'm very fortunate to be part of such an amazing team,” said Marrs. 

Tanvi Hathiramani, M.S., senior program coordinator of the Graduate Programs in Public Health Sciences, endorsed Marrs for the award. She attests to Marrs’ exemplary character and exceptional work ethic. As Marrs’ direct supervisor, Hathiramani also emphasizes Marrs’ dedication and diligence in every task she undertakes. 

“Tyra has stepped up as a leader many times and proved that with exemplary and patient leadership, you can produce positive results while maintaining a positive workplace,” said Hathiramani. “Her passion for continuous development and education, and her strong work ethic make her a great candidate for this award.”

Through the Canes Ambassador program, where the department employs student ambassadors to assist with recruitment and admissions-related events and strategy, Marrs’ efforts to employ an involved and motivated cohort have produced ambassadors. Following their selection, Hathiramani explains that Marrs has gone above and beyond to encourage ambassadors to participate while also holding them accountable while they manage school, research, and this new involvement.

For Hathiramani, there is no question that Marrs manages to exceed in every role she takes on. “Aside from leadership, Tyra also embodies dedication. While juggling two-degree programs, navigating living in a new city, and her role as a graduate assistant for our department, she has also proved to be a model employee in her internship with the Emergency Management Department while also holding e-board positions in two student-led organizations on campus.” 

Marrs also developed a tour program that not only increased the visibility of the department’s programs but also fostered a sense of enthusiasm and interest among potential candidates.

Beyond her contributions to recruitment, her peers recall Marrs has consistently demonstrated exceptional organizational and interpersonal skills. From collaborating seamlessly with colleagues, faculty, and other stakeholders, to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment that has contributed to the overall success of the department. 

Marrs aims to inspire and guide individuals to effect positive changes for patients and the wider community. “I see myself as a catalyst for meaningful advancements in healthcare delivery, striving to make a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve,” she said.

Marrs' ultimate career goal is to secure an executive leadership role within a healthcare system. She is considering pursuing a Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) degree, specializing in the public health executive leadership concentration.

“After graduation, my career path is not entirely mapped out yet,” she said. “However, I'm planning on relocating to Dallas, Texas, to begin my professional journey in healthcare administration – although I am a fan of change and new beginnings, I would not mind staying a little longer in Miami because the city and the people I have met here hold a special place in my heart.”

“Tyra embodies what the ideal student employee looks like given her exemplary work in transforming our internal recruitment strategies and elevating the Department of Public Health Sciences, said Hathiramani. “Her passion, dedication, and results-driven approach make her an invaluable asset to our team, and we are confident that she will continue to make significant contributions in any endeavor she chooses to pursue.” 

Written by Deycha Torres Hernández, published on May 1, 2024.