The MSU Department of Economics is thrilled to congratulate Noah Forman and announce that he has received the Humanitarian Award from the College of Social Science Dean’s Student Advisory Council! The award is given to students providing support, aid and action designed to save lives, alleviate suffering and maintain and protect human dignity during and in the aftermath of crises. This impact could be global, regional, or local in nature. Noah was chosen for this award because of his work to raise funds for research, generate awareness, and support patients with the rare disease and chronic illnesses of Chiari Malformation and Syringomyelia.
“I set out to create a proposal to launch the only Chiari Awareness 5k, focused on education, research, and awareness. Watching 400 people crossing the finish line on race day, knowing I had made that happen, I felt a rush of excitement because I had made a difference,” Noah said.
As a result of the race, Noah was able to raise awareness and over $100,000 for research and have over 1,000 event lifetime participants, which motivated him to continue to set up support systems for others. He began a podcast, “The Chiari Champion,” and created an online support network for people living with the disease.
“Bringing people together who suffer from these disorders and providing research, comfort, and emotional connection was and always will be my goal,” Noah said.
Noah is a first year economics major.
"I chose to study economics because it provides an understanding of how economic forces and government interventions shape societies and economies," he said. "I would like to continue growing my knowledge and skills to analyze complex issues, make informed decisions, and contribute to effective policy-making in the future. Economics fosters critical thinking, analytical abilities, and the capacity to understand the interplay between markets, government, and social outcomes."
Additionally, Noah is a national speaker and youth ambassador for the Bobby Jones Chiari and Syringomyelia Foundation.
Noah is an Alumni Distinguished Scholarship award recipient and third-generation Spartan from Boca Raton, Florida. Noah is majoring in economics and minoring in entrepreneurship at the Broad College of Business. Noah is he President of the First-year class council within the Associated Students of Michigan State University. As a member of the Honors College, he participates in Honors Students Actively Recruiting and the Honors College Service Club. Within the College of Business, Noah is in the Entrepreneurship Association, and Residential Business Community.
Noah also serves on President Guskiewicz’s Student Advisory Board, College of Social Science Dean’s Advisory Council, and the Honors College Dean’s Advisory Council.
After graduating, Noah plans to pursue an MBA, followed by a PhD or EdD in higher education. He aspires to work in U.S. politics and eventually transition into higher education, with the ultimate goal of becoming the President of MSU.
Throughout his future career, Noah is committed to making a positive impact by driving meaningful change in both the public and academic sectors, working to create opportunities that empower individuals, strengthen communities, and foster a brighter future for all.
“True leadership is when your actions inspire and help others to pursue their own goals,” Noah believes.
By Katie Frey