March 9, 2001

Diversity Champions luncheon: A celebration of collaboration

Diversity Champions Awards recipients are pictured with Director of Residential Life Robert Reed (left). The recipients are staff member Eddie Gros, S.J., of University Ministry; Elena Anderson, A'00, president of UPB; and faculty member Lydia Voigt, associate provost at the awards luncheon in February.

Loyola students, staff, and faculty broke bread at the Diversity Champions Luncheon to address issues of diversity in their work and organizations. Held February 20^thin the Audubon Room of the Danna Center, the premier event served as a forum for discussing issues and sharing opportunities in campus-wide diversity programs.

More than 100 members of the university community were invited to the luncheon, which featured an introduction from Al Alcazar of University Ministry and remarks by University President Bernard P. Knoth, S.J. Director of New Student Orientation Karen Shields introduced several representatives from diversity-centered student organizations who informed the audience of their respective group's activities and hopes for collaborative ventures. Included in the student lineup were representatives from Bridging the Gap, Black Student Union (BSU), Gay/Lesbian Outreach at Loyola (GOAL), International Student Association (ISA), Loyola Asian Student Organization (LASO), Loyola University Sociology Student Organization (LUSSO), Social Justice Scholars, Student Government Association (SGA), University Planning Board (UPB), and the Women's Issues Organization.

A highlight of the afternoon was the announcement of the Diversity Champions Awards, presented by Director of Residential Life Robert Reed. The awards honor a leading student, staff, and faculty member whose leadership, teaching, or personal conduct exemplifies a commitment to creating a climate in which diversity can flourish by confronting racism, sexism, and homophobia. This year's honorees were student Elena Anderson, A'00, president of UPB; staff member Eddie Gros, S.J., of University Ministry; and faculty member Lydia Voigt, interim provost and vice president for academic affairs.