CI MED Student and Organization Honored with Larine Y. Cowan Make a Difference Award
Carle Illinois College of Medicine student Mika Vafaie-Janbahan and the Carle Pride student interest group have been selected to receive a 2025 Larine Y. Cowan Make a Difference Award, for Excellence in Access and Accommodations and Advocacy for LGBTQ Affairs, respectively, for their efforts in advocating for inclusion and access at Illinois.
Through forward-thinking leadership and advocacy, Vafaie-Janbahan has advanced accessibility and inclusion across the health care and medical education experience at CI MED. He developed comprehensive, student-centered resource guides that clarify disability and accessibility processes, helping learners navigate medical school with confidence and achieve their full potential. Most notably, his Resource Compilation Guide streamlines access to Disability Resources and Educational Services, CI MED and USMLE accommodations, mentorship opportunities, leave-of-absence procedures, and local health care resources.
“As a dedicated student at the Carle Illinois College of Medicine (CI MED), Mika exemplifies inspiring leadership, deep empathy, and an unwavering commitment to eliminating barriers for individuals with functional diversity,” said CI MED Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer Dr. Nicole Del Castillo. “These qualities truly embody the essence of this award, and I believe Mika’s contributions will make a lasting impact.”
Carle Pride embodies CI MED’s commitment to community and discovery by fostering a supportive and inclusive network for LGBTQ+ identifying and allied medical students while advancing education around LGBTQ+ health care. Through peer connection, advocacy, and dialogue, the organization helps ensure that future physician-innovators are equipped to deliver inclusive, affirming care. By elevating diverse perspectives and addressing gaps in health care education, Carle Pride strengthens CI MED’s learning environment and prepares students to meet the needs of all patients.
That commitment extends beyond campus through sustained community engagement and academic advocacy. Carle Pride’s longstanding presence at the annual CU Pride Fest reflects a forward-thinking approach to health outreach, where CI MED students provide education, free vital sign checks, and visible affirmation of LGBTQ+ inclusive care. In academic and policy spaces, the group has amplified its impact through thought leadership, including a 2023 publication that called for the stronger integration of gender-affirming care in medical training.
“The effect of CarlePride’s efforts has significantly enriched the cultural competence of our medical school community,” said Ajita Nair, a first-year medical student at CI MED. “LGBTQ+ students, including myself, are supported and empowered through various number of ways from community outreach to education events for medical students. All in all, I am extremely grateful for CarlePride’s determination and drive to make both this school and campus an overall more inclusive environment.”
The award winners were recognized at the 40th Celebration of Diversity on November 14 at the I-Hotel and Conference Center. Named in honor of the past Assistant Chancellor and Director of what is now the Office for Access & Equity, the Larine Y. Cowan Awards were created to reflect the commitment to human rights advocacy, social justice, and diversity that defined her leadership for nearly 20 years at Illinois.