Established in 2017, the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Leadership Award recognizes the exceptional and exemplary work of an individual, outside primary, work-related responsibilities, in advancing the values of, inclusion, equity, and diversity across the Βι¶ΉΣ³», and among the greater and surrounding communities.
Announced at the annual Honor the Best ceremony, the recipient receives a $1,500 award.
Nomination process
Any current University employee may nominate an eligible candidate.
Nominee must have three years of cumulative service at the University by the nomination date to be considered for this achievement award. In addition, the candidate must be a current, full-time University academic/administrative faculty or classified staff member that has not received this award.
Diversity & Inclusion will send a campus announcement calling for nominations in January.
Nominations are typically due to the Diversity & Inclusion office by mid-March.
Each nomination should contain the following information:
A formal letter of nomination addressing:
The nominator/s should indicate how they know the nominee, the length of time, and how they are familiar with the diversity work of the nominee.
The nominee’s current role within the university
How the nominee’s work in the area of inclusion, equity, and diversity is exceptional and meets the criteria of this award by answering these three questions:
In regards to programming and/or educational efforts, how has the nominee advanced the understandings and practices of inclusion, equity, and diversity at the University by providing mentoring and leadership in the areas and beyond the nominee’s formal work responsibilities?
In terms of advancing advocacy, belonging and/or policy impacts, how has the nominee advocated for inclusion, equity, and diversity, served as a role model, facilitated opportunities for others, and/or taken a stand on critical issues related to inclusion, equity, and diversity?
How has the nominee generated innovative ways of improving the overall, organizational and cultural climate through different and sustainable activities?
No more than three letters of support from multiple sources which may include students/faculty/staff that are knowledgeable of the nominee’s qualifications.
Nominees will be evaluated by a selection committee composed of the most recent recipient, two University Associate Deans of Diversity & Inclusion, and the University Diversity and Inclusion Officer.
The award recipient will be notified in early April and receive the award in early May.
Previous award recipients
2024
Karla Hernandez Teaching Assistant Professor College of Agriculture, Biotechnology and Natural Resources
2023
Ignacio Montoya Assistant Professor Department of English
2022
Alexis Erwin Manager, Prospective Student Events and Programming Office for Prospective Students
2022
Juana Reynoza-Gomez Director, Advising Recruitment, Retention College of Agriculture, Biotechnology and Natural Resources
2021
Lorraine Benuto Associate Professor Department of Psychology
2020
Eleni Oikonomidoy Associate Dean, Professor College of Education & Human Development
2019
Stephen Rock Director, Βι¶ΉΣ³» Center for Excellence in Disabilities Professor, College of Education & Human Development
2018
Albert Lee Associate Professor College of Liberal Arts
2017
Melanie Duckworth Associate Professor Executive Director, Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
