Syracuse Sun

Bandages that monitor for diabetic foot ulcers and creating safe spaces for conversations about sexual wellness and self-love were just some of the winning innovations presented at the Whitman School Dean’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Innovation Challenge on April 18.

Whitman Interim Dean Alex McKelvie expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “Whitman is committed to creating leaders that understand the importance of sustainability for the future... By providing real-world solutions to issues listed among the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, our students have shown how we can come together as a community to make the world a better place.”

The Whitman Innovation Grand Prize of $5,000 was awarded to Moody Management LLC for their creation of a sex-positivity community media platform addressing the SDG of good health, gender, and reducing inequalities. The grand prize was also given to DiabeTech for their innovative “smart bandage” to prevent diabetic foot ulcers, which addresses the SDG of good health, technology, and reducing inequalities.

First runner-up prize of $3,000 was awarded to Haynie’s Heroes for their platform for refurbishing e-waste and to Eco Guardians for their program promoting climate literacy in the education system.

University Diaries received the second runner-up prize of $2,000 for their online platform to assist high school students with the college application process, while Circular Sages was also awarded for their WasteWise platform promoting responsible consumption in the textile industry.

The Audience Choice Award of $1,000 went to the Daredevils for their e-waste management portal, and the SDG Blackboard Discussion Award of $1,000 was presented to Eco Guardians for their weekly discussions related to SDG.

Boundless Why was recognized with the Most Impactful Innovation Award of $1,000 for creating a global online community providing art resources and therapy for teenagers with autism, while KG's received the Best Creative Video Award of $1,000 for their presentation on AgriNect.

Lastly, the Best Collaborative Diverse Team Award of $1,000 was given to Circular Sages for their representation of students from different backgrounds and schools.

The competition showcased the innovative solutions and dedication of students towards addressing sustainable development goals across disciplines.