North Campus Deans’ MLK Spirit Awards

TThe Learning and Scholarship category recognizes those who go beyond conventional academic pursuits, actively embracing DEI values in their contributions to education, research, and the broader intellectual discourse.

A graduate of Morehouse College, Crozer Theological Seminary, and Boston University, Dr. King showed a lifelong commitment to learning and education. This award recognizes significant contributions in teaching, coursework, research, classroom contributions that center diversity, equity, and inclusion. The Scholarship Award recognizes outstanding achievement in DEI within an academic context. Some examples of efforts that might align with this include:

1. Intentionally works/worked to incorporate DEI or accessibility into their research, scholarship, or discipline.
   1. a person wrote or revised course content to center DEI principles and embed them into the curricular structure of the class.
   2. a person choreographed a new show that highlights Latine culture.
   3. A person centered their research around food insecurity and its disproportionate impact on indigenous people. 

2. When incorporating DEI into their work, they did so with proper research and care.
   1. If doing research on the urban planning of a predominantly Black city, this person consulted members of the community involved or did extensive research and presented their project in a way that respects the marginalized community discussed.
   2. If doing research on dance forms of the Native American diaspora this person consulted members of the community involved or did extensive research and presented their project in a way that respects the marginalized community discussed.

3. Made significant contributions to their classroom community through discussion, projects, and overall participation.
   1. This person thoughtfully incorporated disability when discussing architecture in class. 
   2. This person’s class project focused on implicit bias within engineering.
   3. This person made an effort to create an inclusive environment in their discussion section.

4. Championed equity in their research, scholarship, discipline or classroom participation. Put concerted effort into centering the voices and perspectives of marginalized communities. 
   
5. Serves as a leader within their school, department, or community and encourages others to center DEI within scholarship and research.

The Mentoring and Inspiration category recognizes individuals who actively engage in mentorship, community-building, and leadership that uplifts and empowers others. This could be achieved by fostering a sense of belonging, providing guidance, and demonstrating compassionate leadership.

A cornerstone of the work of Dr. King was building community within congregations, geographic regions, and across nations. This work was underpinned by a commitment to the mentorship of up-and-coming change-makers, inspiring them to continue the pursuit of justice and equality. This award recognizes individuals who have shown exceptional commitment to community building, mentorship, and have served as inspirational leaders in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion. Some examples of efforts that might align with this include:

1. This person has clearly worked to cultivate a community serving marginalized groups, or clearly instituted tangible efforts to create an inclusive community.
   1. A person started an organization or event that creates a safe space for BIPOC communities. 
   2. A person created an organization/event that fostered an inclusive community within their department.
   3. A person facilitated discussion in their staff group that centered DEI.

2. There was a demonstrated positive impact on the community served. There is evidence that the actions taken to cultivate an inclusive environment were welcomed and appreciated. There is evidence that there has been consistent work to build spaces that center DEI principles.
   1. People have mentioned that this person’s efforts to create an inclusive community or safe space positively impacted them and/or students have given consistent positive feedback about spaces created by this person. 
   2. Colleagues have noticed the impact of this person’s work on their department/area/club/program.

3. This person has served as a mentor for others in the community, with special focus on marginalized communities.
   1. A person has organized and led a group for queer faculty/staff across multiple years. 
   2. A person has developed a group that provides arts training for BIPOC youth, which serves students.
   3. A person has had consistent mentees from marginalized groups who have commented on the impact that this person has had in their development.

4. This person shows an empathic approach to the leadership of community programming/mentoring.
   1. A person formulates community guidelines for their group/course and leads by example implementing them into regular practice
   2. A person centers the feelings and thoughts of BIPOC people when discussing how to be actively anti-racist in their unit.

The Community Building & Impact category is focused on a belief in the power of community, inclusivity, and equitable spaces to shape a more just and compassionate world. This may be achieved by creating spaces or launching projects and initiatives that drive diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, leaving a tangible positive impact on campus and beyond.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., dedicated his life to building inclusive communities and creating equitable spaces for all. His transformative work was rooted in the belief that true progress could only be achieved through the power of collective action and community building. Dr. King organized marches, led boycotts, and delivered powerful speeches that inspired individuals from all walks of life to join him in the pursuit of justice and equality. His vision encompassed not only the eradication of racial segregation but also the creation of communities where diversity thrived, and every voice was heard and valued. Dr. King’s profound impact continues to resonate, shaping our understanding of the importance of community, inclusivity, and equity in forging a better future. Some examples of efforts that might align with this include:

1. This person’s project/ initiative advances diversity, equity, inclusion, or accessibility in a tangible way. The person created a program that serves marginalized people, or fosters inclusion or equity of people of all identities, or works to promote accessibility on campus.
   1. a person creates a new initiative to promote the work of BIPOC engineers.
   2. a person centers scholarship and coursework around LGBTQIA2S+ communities.
   3. a person starts a new project that focuses on disability in the arts.

2. People have been positively impacted by this person’s project/ initiative.
   1. People have stated how this new project/early initiative has had a positive impact on them.
   2. Students have demonstrated their appreciation for this project. 
   3. Communities served talked about the impact the project has had on their community.

3. This project/early initiative fills a need on campus/or within society.
   1. A person creates a new project that connects BIPOC engineering students to BIPOC youth for tutoring. 
   2. A person commissions a consortium of queer artists to create an interactive installation which will be displayed publicly.
   3. A person organizes their peers to create a new organization that centers the experiences of disabled people in Taubman.

4. This person has demonstrated good stewardship of university resources or personal human capital by engaging with the outside community members in meaningful ways
   1. Invites community members to share their voices and lived experiences on campus. 
   2. Participates in community led activism or efforts. 
   3. Led a collection drive to aid in the distribution of wealth / resources. 

5. People feel safe, valued, and supported in the spaces created or influenced by this person.
   1. Receives positive feedback from students or colleagues regarding their experiences of inclusivity and support within the academic or professional setting.
   2. Demonstrates evidence of increased retention, participation, and success among underrepresented individuals in the field.
   3. Creates opportunities for dialogue and reflection on biases, microaggressions, and systemic barriers within the field, leading to tangible improvements in the work or learning environment.

The Institutional Change & Advocacy category seeks to recognize those who are actively working to create inclusive and equitable environments on North Campus within their academic or professional domains through efforts like policy changes, curriculum reforms or needs assessments. Additionally, this category celebrates individuals who passionately advocate for social justice within their fields, leveraging their influence to bring about policy reforms and amplify or center the voices of marginalized communities

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s enduring legacy includes a profound commitment to institutional change and advocacy. Dr. King recognized that transformative progress could not be achieved through individual efforts alone. He understood the need to challenge systemic injustices, confront discriminatory policies, and effect change at the institutional level.

Dr. King’s unwavering dedication to social justice and equality inspired a generation to challenge the status quo. Through his powerful speeches, civil rights activism, and strategic organizing, he urged society to confront its biases and dismantle oppressive systems. Dr. King’s vision extended beyond legal reforms; he sought to shape institutions that would foster inclusivity, equity, and opportunity for all. As we reflect on Dr. King’s legacy, we recognize the enduring relevance of his call for institutional change and advocacy. Some examples of efforts that might align with this include:

1. This person actively works to create an inclusive and equitable environment within their academic or professional setting.
   1. Implements policies or practices that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the field of study.
   2. Advocates for changes in curriculum, pedagogy, or hiring practices that foster a more inclusive learning or working environment.
   3. Establishes support networks or mentorship programs to address the specific needs and challenges of underrepresented individuals in the field.

2. This person actively advocates for social justice causes within their academic or professional field.
   1. Engages in public advocacy campaigns or movements that address pressing social justice issues within the field.
   2. Collaborates with internal or external stakeholders or organizations to advance policy changes that promote equity and justice.
   3. Uses their platform to amplify the voices and experiences of marginalized communities and advocate for their rights and representation.
   4. Raises awareness of / contributes to or leads efforts to develop and implement programs or policies that enhance accessibility and foster a more inclusive environment for all members of the community.

The Activism Awareness & Organizing category focuses on raising awareness, fostering dialogue, and organizing communities to address pressing social justice challenges; this could include efforts in advocating, educating, and mobilizing in pursuit of a more just and equitable society.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. possessed an extraordinary ability to illuminate social justice issues, fostering a collective awareness that inspired individuals from all walks of life to rally together for change. Through his passionate speeches, strategic organizing, and unwavering commitment to justice, he captivated the nation and mobilized millions in pursuit of a more equitable society.

Dr. King’s legacy serves as a reminder that creating awareness and organizing communities are fundamental elements in effecting lasting change. We acknowledge the enduring relevance of his approach and the ongoing importance of raising consciousness, fostering dialogue, and mobilizing for social justice causes. Some examples of efforts that might align with this include:

1. This person’s project/initiative effectively raises awareness about social justice issues or advocates for change.
   1. Organizes a speaker series or panel discussions on social justice topics related to the field of study.
   2. Develops and implements a curriculum or workshop that educates students about the historical and contemporary struggles for equity and justice.
   3. Creates a campaign or event that highlights the intersectionality of social justice issues within the discipline.
   4. Creates an art exhibition that uses visual storytelling to shed light on systemic inequalities and promote conversations around social justice.
   5. Initiates a social media campaign that amplifies underrepresented voices, shares personal stories, and encourages discussions on topics related to equity and justice.
   6. Develop collaborative projects with external organizations to host events that engage a broader audience and raise awareness about specific social justice issues.

The Lifetime Achievement Award stands as a tribute to an exceptional individual whose life’s work has been guided by the visionary spirit and unwavering perseverance exemplified by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. This prestigious honor recognizes a luminary who, like Dr. King, has dedicated their lifetime to advancing the cause of justice, equality, and social change. They have faced challenges, overcome obstacles, and stood tall amidst adversity, just as Dr. King did in his quest for justice and peace. Through a lifetime of dedication to awareness building, community organizing, community building, mentoring, advocacy and driving institutional change, this honoree has become a beacon of hope inspiring individuals to unite and take collective action for a better world.