Consider, for example, how social justice is embedded in the culture of our institution. With the support and encouragement of faculty and staff, I have seen students engage in activities such as Building Bridges, the Women of Color Summit, Habitat for Humanity, Environmental Action Council, First Forward, and the D.E.E.P. trip. Through involvement in these and other activities, our students are learning the power of action in promoting justice for all people.
As faculty and staff, it is our job to encourage, challenge, and support them as they address the great challenges of our time. We can help shape their advocacy, pushing them to success through our good counsel, advice, and experience.
Do you know a student who has been a leader in the area of social justice? The President’s Council for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (PCDEI) is currently soliciting nominations for the President’s Award for Values in Action. Through this award, we have an opportunity to recognize those students in our midst who are living our core values and positively impacting others through their actions.
This award recognizes a student who diligently and passionately works to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus. PCDEI is seeking nominees who are actively striving to live out the Gustavus core values, especially those of community and justice.
This week, I encourage you to think about the ways that you can help our students advocate for positive change. And if you know a deserving student, please nominate them for the President’s Award for Values in Action by the end of the day on Wednesday. It is up to each of us to help guide our students’ good work, and to recognize them for a job well done.
Until next week, keep up the good work, Gusties!
With respect,
Becky