Senior Clara Yuhn of the Boston University women's ice hockey team was presented with the Leila Saad Award this week, marking a historic milestone as the first student‑athlete to receive the honor.
The accolade is named for Leila Saad, a retired Assistant Dean of Students who spent more than two decades shaping campus life at BU, beginning her career in 1977 and later directing the University Resource Center while teaching courses such as "Acting for the Non‑Theater Major" in the College of Communication.
Yuhn’s recognition underscores the award’s focus on leadership and service, values that Saad championed throughout her tenure and that continue to guide the university community.
The Legacy Behind the Award
Since retiring in 2001, Saad has remained an influential figure, relocating to Cairo, Egypt, where she remains active in educational circles; her contributions were previously honored with an Honorary Scarlet Key Award in 1997.
The award not only celebrates Saad’s enduring impact but also sets a precedent for future inductees who embody the same commitment to bettering the BU community.
University officials say the ceremony highlights the intersection of athletics and academic service, reinforcing the institution’s broader mission to foster well‑rounded leaders.