Carla Finkielstein, director of the Molecular Diagnostics Lab at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at VTC, has been recognized with the Ut Prosim Scholar Award – the university’s top honor for faculty – for her for her work to improve COVID-19 testing efficiency and effectiveness in support of both Virginia Tech and local health districts and for her service to humanity.
The university’s Board of Visitors established the Ut Prosim Scholar Award in 2016 to recognize singular instances of the application of scholarship in truly extraordinary service to humanity.
“Dr. Finkielstein’s work made it possible for Virginia Tech to detect and trace COVID infections early in the pandemic, providing a reliable testing resource that made it possible to continue university operations while keeping our campus and community safe,” said Virginia Tech President Tim Sands. “Her innovative leadership and commitment to service exemplify the spirit of an Ut Prosim Scholar.”