Two dental residents win Outstanding International Student Awards

13 international student awards 2Congratulations to Dr. Luiz H. Gonzaga, a resident in the University of Florida Department of Prosthodontics, and Dr. Alex Podaru, a resident in the UF Department of Periodontics. Both received a 2013 Outstanding International Student Award from the University of Florida.

Sponsored by the University of Florida International Center, the Outstanding International Student Awards were initiated to highlight the accomplishments of international students at the University of Florida. The awards are designed to recognize students who meet exemplary academic achievement, but also a wide range of accomplishments and contributions.

One of the highest priority goals for UF is to expand its international outlook and impact in education, research and service.  UF’s leadership has placed a special emphasis on internationalization because it is a direct outgrowth of UF’s mission and reflects the importance of globalization in the world today.  Our international students are a key element as we pursue these goals.  While international students adjust to a different language, educational system and cultural environment, they also share with the UF community their language, educational system and culture.

As our international community at the University of Florida continues to grow, it is more important than ever to acknowledge the outstanding achievements of our international students and bring positive reinforcement to UF’s internationalization efforts. The awards presentation recognizes outstanding contributions of international students in an effort to promote and foster continued involvement and outstanding achievement and service.

For more photos of this year’s award winners, please visit the UF International Center’s web site.

Pictured above from left: Dr. Luiz H. Gozaga, Dr. Roberta Pileggi, associate dean for the UF School of Advanced Dental Sciences, and Dr. Alex Podaru.