Los Angeles, CA — July 1, 2025 — The American College Health Association (ACHA) has named Dr. Sarah Van Orman, Vice President and Chief Campus Health Officer at the University of Southern California, as the recipient of its Lifetime Achievement Award for the 2024–2025 program year. This honor recognizes individuals whose careers have been dedicated to improving the health and wellness of college students while providing outstanding service to ACHA.
In a formal announcement, James Wilkinson, CEO of ACHA, emphasized that Dr. Van Orman’s nomination and letters of support made it abundantly clear that her leadership has had a profound impact on student health at USC and beyond. “Through their commitment to college health, they set a wonderful example for college health professionals around the globe.”
A National Leader in College Health
Dr. Van Orman has spent her career advocating for and implementing health systems that support student well-being. Her leadership at USC includes directing integrated medical, mental health, and public health services. She played a key role in leading the university’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to guide efforts in sexual assault prevention, trauma-informed care, and health equity.
A former president of ACHA, she also chairs national committees and contributes to data-informed strategies that shape the future of campus health care delivery.
Ceremony at ACHA 2025 Annual Meeting
Dr. Van Orman was honored at the ACHA Awards and Fellows Ceremony during the association’s 2025 Annual Meeting in New Orleans, which took place on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. The ACHA Lifetime Achievement Award is reserved for professionals whose careers reflect decades of commitment to the advancement of college health. Awardees are recognized for their visionary leadership, service to ACHA, and broad contributions to public health in academic settings.
Founded in 1920, ACHA serves more than 19 million college students nationwide and supports a multidisciplinary membership that delivers mental health, clinical care, prevention, and wellness services across U.S. campuses.
Dr. Van Orman’s selection for this top honor underscores her enduring impact on the field and the students she serves. Her leadership at USC continues to inspire college health professionals across the country.