2008 Social Justice Awards
The UNH Student and Academic Services Diversity Team, in partnership with the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Committee presented the 5th annual Social Justice Awards. These special awards honor UNH community members who have demonstrated excellence and integrity with respect to advancing social justice issues within our community and beyond.
Each year, one faculty member, one staff member, one graduate student and one undergraduate student are recognized for his or her role in providing outstanding leadership, courage and positive role modeling in promoting social justice issues such as diversity, equity, and human rights. Nominees are distinguished by qualities such as (1) depth and breadth of contributions, (2) impact on individuals, organizations, programs and policies; and (3) collaborative efforts. The following award recipients were honored at the Social Justice Award celebration held on February 1, 2008.
Undergraduate Award Recipient
Selina K. Taylor
Selina Taylor is a senior pursuing a double major in Psychology and International Affairs with a minor in French. She is a motivated member of the UNH community and has been involved with the Sisters In Step, Diversity Banquet Planning Committee, Black Student Union, MLK Celebratory Events, Students Advocating for Gender Equity (SAGE), annual performances of the Vagina Monologues, and Chi Alpha.
Graduate Award Recipient
Renai W. MasonRenai Mason is a graduate student as UNH pursuing her masters degree in education. She has been an inspiration member of the UNH community and is willing to lead in variety of settings. Renai is a liaison of the Graduate Student Office and Forest Park, an officer in the Black Student Union as well as DSC, a former president of Sisters In Step as well as a participant in events such as MLK celebrations,BSU Fashion shows, and Kwanzaa celebrations.
Staff Award Recipient
Richard Haynes Jr.
Associate Director of Admissions for Diversity
Richard Haynes is the Associate Director of Admissions for Diversity. He is a role model and mentor for co-workers and students alike. His unique insight and approach to education, and recruitment has moved many to become better educators and citizens. In 2007 Richard guided the students involved in the Diversity Mural Project
Faculty Award Recipient
Michael K. Ferber, Professor of English
Michael K Ferber is a Professor of English and the Director of Graduate Studies at UNH. He has been an activist and mentor for many students and faculty alike. Michael has led workshops and panel discussions on non-violence protests and civil disobedience. He served as a resource during the teach-ins and participated in University Dialogues. In addition to his work within UNH community, He has been the President and long time Board member of NH Peace Action, the NH chapter of the American Friends Service Committee and Clamshell Alliance.
Undergraduate Student Organization
Diversity Support Coalition
The Diversity Support Coalition (DSC), is composed of several student groups: Alliance, BlackStudent Union, Hillel, Mosaico, Native American Cultural Association, and United Asian Coalition. The DSC has supported many sociopolitical actions on campus, such as sit-ins, protests, and demonstrations, as well as annual
events such as National Coming Out Day, Kwanzaa Celebrations and Chanukah Celebrations.
