2008 Woodie Awards
Retiring VP of student affairs issues call to diversify Miami
Austin R. Fast
Issue date: 3/7/08 Section: Campus
"I don't think we can say we want Miami to be more diverse unless we're willing to follow through," Nault said. "Our actions, not our words, are a test of commitment."
Nault's third rule was that building diversity is like peeling back the layers of an onion. For Nault, building diversity is a lifelong struggle that involves constantly peeling back more layers of understanding.
"A complete understanding may never be possible, but I feel it's an undertaking we must all take," Nault said.
Nault concluded his speech by encouraging his audience to pledge their hearts to the journey towards racial equality.
"I hope that you take leadership on this campus and take steps to promote racial diversity," Nault said. "Lavatus Powell was a great man, but you are great students. I hope you'll be part of the complex conversations that need to take place."
After Nault completed his speech, attendees were encouraged to discuss a question with their table regarding topics of diversity. The provided questions included a variety of topics such as, "Do you make an effort to step outside your comfort zone?" and, "How do you communicate with people different from yourself?"
The program concluded with the presentation of two awards in honor of Powell. The Lavatus Powell Community Builder Award was presented to a faculty member and a student who demonstrates commitment to the ideals Powell demonstrated in his lifetime.
Karen Montgomery, visiting assistant professor of teacher education, received the faculty award for helping to found the first college chapter of Ambassadors for Children (AFC) in 2006. This organization allows Miami students the opportunity to travel to Belize or El Salvador to assist children in need.
According to Pinkett, the presenter of the award, Montgomery organized donation partnerships with the Talawanda School District, the Kiwanis Club of Oxford and Miami University to support the organization.
Montgomery accepted the award, a $500 donation to AFC, while emphasizing her commitment to continuing her work with AFC.
Nault's third rule was that building diversity is like peeling back the layers of an onion. For Nault, building diversity is a lifelong struggle that involves constantly peeling back more layers of understanding.
"A complete understanding may never be possible, but I feel it's an undertaking we must all take," Nault said.
Nault concluded his speech by encouraging his audience to pledge their hearts to the journey towards racial equality.
"I hope that you take leadership on this campus and take steps to promote racial diversity," Nault said. "Lavatus Powell was a great man, but you are great students. I hope you'll be part of the complex conversations that need to take place."
After Nault completed his speech, attendees were encouraged to discuss a question with their table regarding topics of diversity. The provided questions included a variety of topics such as, "Do you make an effort to step outside your comfort zone?" and, "How do you communicate with people different from yourself?"
The program concluded with the presentation of two awards in honor of Powell. The Lavatus Powell Community Builder Award was presented to a faculty member and a student who demonstrates commitment to the ideals Powell demonstrated in his lifetime.
Karen Montgomery, visiting assistant professor of teacher education, received the faculty award for helping to found the first college chapter of Ambassadors for Children (AFC) in 2006. This organization allows Miami students the opportunity to travel to Belize or El Salvador to assist children in need.
According to Pinkett, the presenter of the award, Montgomery organized donation partnerships with the Talawanda School District, the Kiwanis Club of Oxford and Miami University to support the organization.
Montgomery accepted the award, a $500 donation to AFC, while emphasizing her commitment to continuing her work with AFC.
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