Ms. Samihah Vaid serves as the Administrative Assistant to the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies at The George Washington University. Originally from Houston, Texas, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from Texas A&M University. A proud AmeriCorps alum, Samihah completed her Transform Mid-Atlantic AmeriCorps service with Homes Not Borders, where she supported refugee resettlement efforts and community integration initiatives. Building on her passion for global engagement and humanitarian work, she plans to pursue a Master’s in Migration and Diaspora Studies in the coming fall.

This award recognizes Ms. Samihah Vaid's remarkable service, initiative, and impact as a TMA AmeriCorps VISTA member with Homes Not Borders during the 2024–25 grant year. Through her leadership and dedication, she strengthened multiple programs that uplifted and empowered refugee families—from revitalizing the Moving Up Fund, which distributed $20,000 to families pursuing vocational training, to advancing New Neighbor Designs, where her coordination of vendors and events generated $6,300 in sales, with 80% of profits benefiting refugee artisans. Samihah also helped launch the Newcomers to Neighbors Mentorship Program, connecting families and volunteers through meaningful community experiences. Most notably, her critical service to the Emergency Rental Assistance Program provided life-changing support to more than 50 families, ensuring $98,000 in funds reached those most at risk of eviction. Samihah's compassion, resourcefulness, and commitment to equity exemplify the transformative power of AmeriCorps service and the very spirit of this award.