SODA achieves prominent media award

Troy University’s Student Organ Donor Advocates (SODA) garnered national acclaim, earning the “Most Impactful Media Feature” at the 2025 Legacy for Hope Event.  

The award was presented by SODA National and recognizes media that elevates awareness and inspires action on organ donation. The winning piece was written by Communications Coordinator for the College of Health Sciences, Kait Nesbitt. 

“The story I wrote was about the annual SODA event, Legacy for Hope Event 2025, and their two guest speakers, Emily Whatley and Dr. Fred Helms,” Nesbitt said. “Whatley spoke about her experience with organ donation through her child, and Dr. Helms spoke about his experience in organ donation as a provider.

“As a mom, Whately’s story and her child's story resonated with me. This organization is an amazing one, showing students how impactful they can be through donation, whether it is blood donation, or organ donation.” 

University Relations photo

Pictured: Kait Nesbitt, Communications Coordinator for the College of Health Sciences

Nesbitt also shared what she wanted readers to take away from her story.  

“I want readers to see this organization and join it,” Nesbitt said. “Their mission is to bring more awareness to the students of Troy of the impact they can have on another's life.” 

Troy’s SODA chapter’s faculty advisor, Dr. Kim Andrews, explained how the award impacts the university as a whole. 

“I was so proud,” Andrews said. “We have put so much work into SODA over the past two years.  

“To be recognized nationally for our media presentation just proved to myself and the other SODA members that our hard work was recognized. This award shows that smaller universities such as Troy can have big impacts!” 

Catherine Andrews, a junior majoring in graphic design from Louisville, Alabama, is Troy SODA’s vice president. Andrews has a kidney disease called autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) and will need to have a kidney transplant at some point in her lifetime. 

Andrews explained what SODA means to her and why students should consider joining. 

“SODA is not only special to me, but I take pride in being a part of something much bigger than myself,” Andrews said. “Advocating for people in need, while informing my fellow students across campus could save countless lives and touch so many families. 

“I believe SODA is a character-building opportunity and can lead to a change in mindset for not only yourself, but for everyone around you.” 

SODA’s goal is to educate students about organ donation and inspire them to register as an organ donor. To learn more about Troy SODA, readers are encouraged to visit @troyuniversity_soda.