Speakers, student involvement highlighted at event

“Today is a day that we come together ... as a campus to identify and recognize those individuals who have contributed so much to making UWRF a more welcoming and inclusive environment,” Multicultural Services Adviser Linda Alvarez said.

Alvarez was one of the speakers at the fifth annual Diversity Awards Banquet held Wednesday.

“Creating a multicultural perspective on this campus is ... still a work in progress,” Alvarez said. “We’re not quite there yet, but keep your eyes on the prize.”

Chancellor Don Betz was also on hand to speak at the event.

“It’s not about what we’ve accomplished, it’s about what we are committed to doing,” Betz said. “These awards, which you all richly deserve, are emblematic of something much broader.”

For her work as adviser to the Black Student Union, Njia Lawrence-Porter received the 2008 Diversity Award for Distinguished Faculty and Staff.

Bahvita Patel received the Distinguished Student Volunteer Award for her work with the International Student Association and her involvement with the International Bazaar. Diana Vang, Antonette Guider and Kenny Yoo received Outstanding Student Volunteer Awards.

Sanna Jaman received the Distinguished Student Leader Award for her demonstrated leadership in making the Black Student Union more inclusive. Keila Tirado, Ted Cannady, and Amanda Johnson all received Outstanding Student Leader Awards.

The Black Student Union received the Outstanding Student Organization Award for their efforts to make UWRF a more inclusive environment.

“It has always been about honoring the dedication and commitment several individuals give to spreading diversity awareness and creating an inclusive environment” said Diversity Issues and Women’s Initiatives co-director Nikki Shonoiki.