Silverman, who earned her bachelor’s degree in health science studies from Quinnipiac in 2025, was recognized for her leadership and service through Wheel It Forward, the focus of her doctoral capstone project.

Wheel It Forward operates durable medical equipment libraries where people can borrow essential recovery equipment, including wheelchairs, walkers and knee scooters, often at no cost. Donated equipment is sanitized and safety-checked before being made available to people recovering from surgery, injury or illness.

Quinnipiac’s Wheel It Forward location, developed through its EQUIP Rehabilitation program, opened in April on the University’s North Haven campus.

For her capstone, Silverman will work with Wheel It Forward to explore how providing patients with immediate access to durable medical equipment following a hospital stay can support a safer transition home. Beginning in March, she plans to conduct outreach with hospitals and neurological rehabilitation centers to explore ways patients recovering from stroke can access and receive training on needed equipment before leaving the hospital.

“I love being able to help people regain their independence,” Silverman said. “I think this project is a whole encompassing view of everything that has helped me with Girl Scouts.”

Silverman was a Girl Scout for 13 years with a troop in Rockland County, New York, remaining with the troop after her family moved to New Jersey. She earned the organization’s Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards and continues to stay involved with her former Girl Scout community.

“Service has been a huge part of my life,” Silverman said. “I’ve always known that I was meant for something to give back to my community.”

She said her Girl Scout experience also helped develop the leadership, advocacy and communication skills she now uses in her occupational therapy education and clinical experiences.

“I think my leadership and even public speaking has gotten better from Girl Scouts,” Silverman said. “I’ve learned to use my resources wisely, even finding grant money where I can, and to find simple ways to be creative and make a difference.”

Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson recognized Silverman’s Wheel It Forward work as a reflection of her commitment to caring for others and making a meaningful difference in her community.

“The Board of Directors took special note of your dedication to caring for others and your impressive impact as a young woman of courage, confidence, and character,” Jennifer Donohue, director of marketing and communications for Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson, wrote in notifying Silverman of the award.

The award includes a $1,000 prize. She also will have an opportunity to showcase Wheel It Forward and speak with Girl Scout volunteers about the project.

“Kara’s commitment to service is remarkable, and it is such an honor to see her leadership in this area recognized by Girl Scouts Heart of the Hudson,” said Trenton Honda, dean of Quinnipiac’s School of Health Sciences.

Silverman is expected to graduate from Quinnipiac’s Doctor of Occupational Therapy program in 2027.