RWC Chemistry Professor Emel Yakali has been named the recipient of the 2002 Diversity Is Beautiful Award. The Award Committee, Dr. Mitchell Livingston (UC Vice-President of Human Resources and Services), and RWC Dean Barbara Bardes surprised Dr. Yakali during her 10 a.m. class last Thursday, May 23.Students nominate a faculty, staff member, or an administrator who has done one or more of the following:
Shown an awareness of diversity
Exhibited a sensitivity to people of various cultures
Aided students’ growth in the knowledge of diversity
Recognized preparation for diversity in the workplace
Helped students personally in the area of diversity
Dr. Yakali was nominated by one of her Organic Chemistry students. To quote from the nomination form, “Dr. Yakali helps create a comfortable learning environment, putting students first. She is patient with each student and takes time to help them achieve their goals.” The Diversity Is Beautiful Award Committee included Diane Rogers, Fran Schwartzberg, and Debra Oswald.
The award is a Just Community initiative, sponsored through the Office of Multicultural Affairs.