This summer, Eleanor Dagan ’26 attended Georgetown University’s Advanced Medical & Public Health Internship, hosted by Leadership Initiatives. Alongside her team, Eleanor researched and presented a public health proposal before a panel of professionals. Her focus centered on raising awareness and promoting the prevention of acute respiratory infections in Nigeria, a significant global health concern. Eleanor learned about this opportunity from a family friend who completed the same internship.

“They spoke so highly about the program and the difference it allowed them to make, and described how rewarding it felt to create an impact. Hearing their story inspired me to apply, hoping to gain the same sense of fulfillment while contributing to something meaningful,” Eleanor said.

Her work and leadership earned high praise from internship Director, Lauren Hensel, who recognized her dedication, insight, and collaborative spirit. 

“I enjoy bringing structure to projects — whether through spreadsheets, clear documentation, or organized planning — which helped me guide my team and present our project effectively and revive funding,” Eleanor said. “I immediately began brainstorming innovative yet simple ideas that could be applied in Nigeria, and with the support of my team members, we collaborated throughout the week to develop meaningful, long-lasting strategies.”

As a result, Eleanor was awarded a $1,000 assistance scholarship for the 2026 Summer Internship program. In a remarkable act of generosity, Eleanor has chosen instead to serve as a team leader next summer and to contribute her scholarship to another Holy Cross student so they, too, may benefit from this unique experience.

“My community at Holy Cross has empowered me to be the person I am today. Through the science-focused classes and electives I’ve taken, I developed the confidence to share what I’ve learned and inspire curiosity in others,” Eleanor said. “By giving back, I hope to reflect the empowerment I’ve received and continue the rotation of uplifting not just my local community, but a worldwide difference.

In addition to her presentation, Eleanor created a personalized website to showcase her research, achievements, and internship reflections. She was also awarded 35 community service hours, further highlighting her commitment to using her education in meaningful, impactful ways.

“I had an incredible experience,” Eleanor said. “Staying on a college campus and attending lectures daily gave me a real sense of what college will be like. Working directly with doctors from Nigeria was eye-opening and inspiring, hearing about their lives across the world, making new connections, and forming friendships that I now hold close made the experience even more meaningful. These opportunities not only expanded my knowledge but also strengthened my commitment to give back, uplift others, and continue the cycle of empowerment that Holy Cross instilled in me.”