On Wednesday, May 26, Dr. Kathy Leonard-Bayes (at right in the photo) was presented with the 2010 Diversity Is Beautiful Award, given annually to the RWC faculty or staff member who has demonstrated one or more of the following qualities: faculty, staff, or administrator has shown a sensitivity to people of various cultures, among other traits. Dr. Leonard-Bayes is in her first year as a adjunct Assistant Professor of American History at RWC. In the nomination, especially noted was an appreciation for how she helped open the minds of students about diversity by encouraging them to approach persons, places, situations, and eras in American History through an awareness of inclusive thinking, versus a stereotypical based approach.
To quote an excerpt from the student’s nomination:
“I feel one of the most important (characteristics) is her ability to always remain open-minded. I believe this open-mindedness allows her to be beautifully diverse. . A lot of the issues we discuss in American History are easily judged whether it’s concerning a person, place, situation, or era. We have our pre-judgments, yet she turns us away from the stereotypical approach. She shows us that people have beliefs, traditions, etc., due to many factors, such as their culture, race, sexual orientation, religion, etc.
“Therefore I believe Dr. Bayes is a wonderful nominee. She does not pre-judge based on religion, race, economic status, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or others. This is beautiful and her passion rubs off on others!”
Shown presenting the award to her is UC Vice-President Dr. Mitchell Livingston. Dr. Leonard-Bayes was surprised during her 1 p.m. history class for the presentation. Also present were RWC Interim Dean Don O’Meara and RWC Director of Multicultural Affairs Helen Kegler.