Poindexter partly credits this desire to protect her community with her time on campus, which she said “definitely helped me grow as a person in this way.” She specifically recalled the family-like feel of the Department of Art and Design, and how the Blue Hens here supported each other during the pandemic.

“Everyone was so giving,” she said. “Our senior show is a good example. We couldn’t have an actual senior show in a studio setting, so some of us came together to create a book showcasing all of the work, making sure everyone was included and everyone’s personality showed through.” 

Now, Poindexter is hoping fellow Blue Hens and members of the wider community come together once more — this time to reach herd immunity from the coronavirus, which is achieved through vaccinations.

“Getting vaccinated is a small price to pay to be able to live your life again, and to make sure we’re moving forward,” she said.

In the meantime, do not worry — Poindexter does not plan on spending her award on scoops of ice cream or UD-branded merchandise… at least not all of it. Instead, a self-described saver, she hopes to invest most of the money, and maybe do a little traveling, now that she is experiencing a post-vaccine peace of mind. 

That sense of freedom? 

Good luck assigning a dollar amount to it, the Blue Hen said: “It’s priceless.”