Campus groups honor leaders during annual awards ceremony
Students, faculty and staff were recognized for their leadership during the annual Celebrating Women Awards on Oct. 7.
The event is a collaboration among the Women's Commission, Positive Black Women, the Department of Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, and the Center for Women and Gender Equity. Samhita Rhodes, professor of electrical and biomechanical engineering, was the keynote speaker.
At left, Kelli Dykstra, administrative assistant for GVPD, stands with Capt. Leah Heaton, who received the Unsung Hero Award from Grand Valley's Women's Commission Oct. 7 during an awards ceremony. (Macayla Cramer)
Latoya Booker, director of Inclusion and Equity, stands on stage in the Kirkhof Center's Grand River Room while holding the Maxine Swanson Award she received. (Macayla Cramer)
Jay Knight, assistant professor of nursing, stands on stage after receiving the Jennifer Palm Community Impact Award. (Macayla Cramer)
Brittany Jones, coordinator of Black student mental health initiatives for the University Counseling Center, holds the Emerging Leader Award. (Macayla Cramer)
Grand Valley's Women's Commission presented awards to the following faculty and staff:
- Latoya Booker, director of Inclusion and Equity, received the Maxine Swanson Award, presented to an individual who contributes to an environment that supports the rights of all women at the university.
- Brittany Jones, coordinator of Black student mental health initiatives for the University Counseling Center, received the Emerging Leader Award, presented to a new professional who is already making significant contributions.
- Capt. Leah Heaton, assistant director of public safety for the Grand Valley Police Department, received the Unsung Hero Award, recognizing positive contributions made often behind the scenes.
- Jay Knight, assistant professor of nursing, received the Jennifer Palm Community Impact Award. Named for Jenn Palm, former Women's Commission member who died in 2024, the award recognizes an individual who demonstrates commitment to community service and empowers others.
Student scholarships, awards
- The Department of Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies presented the Jean Enright Scholarship to Mara Vettori.
- The Center for Women and Gender Equity presented Johanna Moltavo-Tinoco and Christina Richards with Outstanding Student Awards.
- Positive Black Women presented a scholarship to Ravien Glenn.