LSUE DMS Student Given National Award

EUNICE, La. – LSU Eunice is proud to announce that Diagnostic Medical Sonography (DMS) student Hannah Cordes has been selected as an Emerging Leader by the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS), a national recognition honoring students who demonstrate exceptional promise, professionalism, and leadership within the sonography field.  Cordes is the first LSU Eunice student to receive the award.

Cordes, an Abbeville resident, currently serves as President of the Student Sonography Society (SSS) at LSU Eunice, where she has played a pivotal role in strengthening student engagement and promoting excellence within the program. Under her leadership, the organization has expanded opportunities for networking, hands-on skills development, continuing education, and advocacy for the sonography profession. She has also led efforts to enhance peer mentorship by connecting senior students with incoming cohorts, helping ease the transition into the rigorous DMS curriculum.

The SDMS Emerging Leader program identifies students and early-career professionals nationwide who exemplify the qualities essential to advancing diagnostic medical sonography. Selection criteria include a demonstrated commitment to patient-centered care, academic excellence, and active participation in professional organizations. Cordes’s nomination highlights her dedication both to her studies and to elevating the profession on campus and beyond.

Cordes is one of 13 students nationwide to be named to the SDMS Foundation Emerging Leaders Program Cohort for 2026.  She will participate virtually in a variety of leadership education opportunities designed to engage them in meaningful dialogue and projects related to the future of the profession and leadership volunteerism.

The cohort experience will culminate with one participant being selected to receive a grant to attend the fall SDMS and SDMS Foundation Board of Directors Meetings, Liaison Meetings, and the 2026 SDMS Annual Conference.

“Hannah has distinguished herself as a leader among her peers and as a strong ambassador for the sonography profession,” said Bridget Thibodeaux, LSU Eunice’s DMS Program Director.  “Her initiative, professionalism, and passion for patient care make her an outstanding representative of our program and a deserving recipient of this national honor.”

As she prepares to transition from student leadership to professional practice, Cordes continues to build skills in clinical imaging, organizational management, advocacy, and collaborative teamwork—foundations that will serve her as she steps into her role as a credentialed sonographer.

LSU Eunice and the DMS program congratulate Hannah Cordes on her selection as an SDMS Emerging Leader and look forward to the meaningful contributions she will make to the field of diagnostic medical sonography.