“There’s something comforting about knowing that we’re all in this together,” said Dawson Stewart, who studies middle childhood education. “We’re not alone even if we feel like it sometimes.”

Stewart finds inspiration in his dad’s motivated spirit, mentioning how both he and his dad battle anxiety. “My dad has really stayed faithful to his friends and to our family,” he said. “He’s continued to not act in feeling but act in love for people.”

As an aspiring teacher, Stewart searches for ways to support others. He quoted the Bible, Acts 20:35, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” He has manifested these inspiring words in his own life by finding true joy in helping others.

One way Stewart unleashes his passion for people is by reaching out during the pandemic. He volunteers at food donation organizations and tries to impart joy to others through interactions on campus with his fellow Buckeyes.

He also works as a facilities support specialist at Ohio State’s James Cancer Hospital Solove Research Institute, where he directs lab spaces and manages equipment. “The researchers are literally saving so many lives,” said Stewart. “It is such a privilege to come alongside them in a small way.”