HBC Lab Research Assistant DeAndre Steger was among four University of Iowa undergraduates receiving Distinguished Student Leader Certificates at the 109th Hancher-Finkbine Anniversary Dinner Celebration on Tuesday, April 7, an event recognizing exceptional UI students, faculty, staff, and alumni.

The dinner brings together individuals to establish meaningful connections that will assist in their careers, volunteer experiences, and daily lives. Sara Sanders, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, hosted the program, and President Barbara Wilson presented the awards, including the Hancher-Finkbine Medallions and Distinguished Student Leader Certificates.

DeAndre, who grew up in Iowa City, is a senior majoring in psychology with a goal of becoming a neuropsychologist. While completing course work in psychology, he has also worked in the HBC lab getting hands-on experience leading cognitive and neuropsychological assessments, and he is completing an Honor’s thesis on his independent research project, entitled “Evaluating the Convergent Validity of Digital Processing-Speed Assessments: An Analysis of DSST, Letter Comparison, and Pattern Comparison Tasks.” Leading up to his written thesis and presentation, he has also presented his research at the Iowa Biosciences Research symposium on January 16, and the “Research in the Capitol” on March 9 in Des Moines. 

His other academic work includes graduate level‑analysis and original research on rights and remedial justice. As an Undergraduate Student Government senator and academic affairs cochair, he has authored USG legislation supporting mental health, housing, and food security. Steger also holds leadership roles in Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity. His long-term service at the Food Pantry‑at‑Iowa underscores his commitment to student well‑being.

"When I first met DeAndre he expressed his goal to become a neuropsychologist and it's been such a joy to work with him in pursuit of his goal,” says HBC Lab Director Dr. Michelle Voss. “In the lab he has gotten experience now with all aspects of research and his passion for it continues to grow along with his skills and expertise. I'm not surprised to see how widely he's contributed on campus — he’s a thoughtful leader, deeply committed to his community, and someone who consistently follows through on his goals."

Visit Iowa Now for information on other honorees at the dinner.