Mikyle Hassanali is being recognized for his efforts to foster deeper understanding and connections among the diverse Muslim community at Columbia -- particularly in creating safer spaces and support for Shia Muslims within the Muslim Students Association. Holding multiple leadership roles within MSA, he developed impactful Shia-Sunni dialogues and fostered stronger relationships not just on campus but also among other NYC-area Muslim college students. Mikyle also created one of the first university Ahlul Bayt (as) Chair positions in the country to specifically meet the needs of Shia Muslim students, ensuring that the important work he initiated is sustained beyond his time at Columbia.