May 21, 2013

Students, faculty, and staff honored for strengthening community

Each year, the Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) recognizes faculty, staff, and students whose tremendous contributions make Lewis & Clark a more welcoming community.

From those who have helped shape our community for decades to those who only recently began their Lewis & Clark journey, the Impact Awards honor individuals who make the campus a more inclusive place. Each year, the Office of Multicultural Affairs (OMA) recognizes faculty, staff, and students whose tremendous contributions make Lewis & Clark a more welcoming community. 

During the April 2 banquet, dozens of students, staff, faculty members, and friends gathered to congratulate and thank the 32 nominees and to learn more about the accomplishments of the four recipients of 2013 Impact Awards.

“We were thrilled to break bread with everyone as we celebrated seniors and acknowledged the significant contributions so many in our community have made to promote diversity and inclusion at Lewis & Clark and the greater community,” said Tricia Brand, associate dean of students and director multicultural affairs.

Emerging Voice Award Winner: Marisol Jenkins

Though she is only a sophomore, Marisol Jenkins ’15 has established herself as an energetic and passionate member of the community focused on issues of racial, cultural, and religious identity. From helping plan the 2012 Ray Warren Multicultural Affairs Symposium to serving on the Religious and Spiritual Life Advisory Council, Jenkins has already become a leader on campus and shows great promise for her remaining time at Lewis & Clark. Brand introduced her award by saying:

“If you don’t know who this remarkable and energetic young woman is yet, you need to meet her and get to know her. Marisol lights up the room when she enters and her commitment to making her community better has already made a significant impact in ways that represent the mission of the college.”

Ray Warren Leadership Award Winner: Kerry White

A dozen students earned nominations, but Kerry White ’13 earned the award for his many campus contributions, including founding the Queer Resource Center. The award honors graduating seniors who exemplify the spirit and determination of the late Ray Warren, a beloved, long-time staff member.

Faculty Impact Award Winners: Joann Geddes and Janet Davidson

For the first time, a pair of professors earned the award that honors mentorship and devotion to fostering a more diverse learning environment. Janet Davidson, associate professor of psychology, and Joann Geddes, codirector of the Academic English Studies program, have over 50 combined years of service to the college. 

Kristi Williams Staff Impact Award Winner: Rachel Orlansky

In January, the community mourned the passing of Kristi Williams, a member of the advising staff whose work touched the lives of an untold number of students over more than 30 years with the college. In her honor, the Impact Award for staff members now bears Kristi’s name. For her work to make the community a welcoming and supportive place, Rachel Orlansky, director of student support services, earned the staff award this year.

 

The Office of Multicultural Affairs welcomes the campus community and members of the public to attend events and participate in programs focused on building a diverse and culturally vibrant campus. Learn how you can get involved on the OMA website

 

Multicultural Affairs