Michael Forst, a senior majoring in economics, recently won the Morris Lehman Mayer Award.

The Mayer Award is one of The University of Alabama’s Premier Awards and is given to a graduating senior who exemplifies the life of Morris L. Mayer through selfless and significant service and leadership for the UA community, significant contributions to student life, and integrity.

Forst served as the director of outreach for The SOURCE for two years, the director of student life for the Honors College Assembly for two years and the president of the Honors College Assembly for the past year.

“I’ve tried to be involved in a wide variety of organizations on campus, but most of my time has been dedicated to the Honors College Assembly and The SOURCE,” Forst said. “Working with both of these organizations has given me the chance to work toward building new opportunities for my fellow students to become actively involved and engaged on campus.”

Forst said he is most proud of the successes he has seen in those around him.

“I’m most proud of the opportunity I’ve had to work with HCA’s Leadership Team this year,” he said. “These student leaders give of themselves to put on events and start initiatives for the Honors College and it has been a privilege to be a part of the success they’ve had.”

Stephanie Brewer, coordinator of the University Fellows Experience, said Forst is passionate about helping other students.

“Michael Forst is a strong leader with a kind heart. He is passionate about his role in student and personal development, and feels both his successes and missteps with great emotion,” Brewer said. “Michael is always seeking to be an advocate for those who may not be able to advocate for themselves. I’m proud of who Michael is as a person, as well as what he has accomplished and will accomplish in the future.”

Forst grew up in Prattville, Ala., and will return to Tuscaloosa to pursue a masters degree in communication studies at the University.