Hudeeja Ijaz

When speaking up for others "who don’t have the platforms or resources you do to enact change," said Hudeeja Ijaz, “Be hungry and ambitious to have your voice heard.”

In speaking for others’ needs, Hudeeja makes her voice heard, often directly through her actions. She loves learning about how things work and finding ways to share what she learned with others, and she feels most valuable when helping solve problems that will benefit many.

As the president of the Association of Muslim Volunteers, Hudeeja leads with empathy and compassion in pursuit of helping local and global communities. Her nominator said, “She consistently takes the time to connect with those she leads, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose within her organization.”

Hudeeja understands that an organization is a team, and that teams succeed when individuals thrive. She takes a personal approach to delegation, actively engaging with other organization members to encourage collaboration and make sure everyone feels understood and supported. Like any great leader, Hudeeja is not afraid to ask for help or clarification.

Her nominator said, “Whether consulting with her advisor or brainstorming with her board, Hudeeja’s openness demonstrates her commitment to finding the best solutions rather than relying solely on her own authority.”

She handles challenges with grace and empathy, always prioritizing the well-being of her community. She is not afraid to challenge the status quo or propose creative solutions and events. For example, she organized a community tree-planting event, a gravesite cleaning event to provide dignity to the deceased, and a calligraphy workshop to raise funds for damage caused by winter weather.

These events are in addition to the Association of Muslim Volunteers’ work supporting local refugee families by providing meals or items they need, supporting homeless shelters in Roanoke, and providing meals to students who are looking for a community in the month of Ramadan.

Her nominator said, “Hudeeja’s unwavering commitment to serving others, combined with her creative approach to leadership, has left a lasting impact on her community. Her courageous leadership exceeds the expectations of her role and inspires others to step up, speak out, and contribute to meaningful change.”

Hudeeja also champions the work of the Muslim Student Association and the American Institute for Architecture Students.

Hudeeja is a senior studying architecture in the College of Architecture, Arts, and Design. She is spending this semester in Chicago, continuing her education in social impact through architecture.

After graduation, she plans to become an architect who uses her architectural voice as a means for advocacy. Hudeeja said, “I want to create a lasting impact by creating meaningful designs that advocate for excellence for all and work to foster equitability.”

For her fearless commitment to using her voice to uplift others, Student Affairs is proud to present the Aspire! Award for Prepare for a Life of Courageous Leadership to Hudeeja Ijaz.