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ST. George — An event held Monday night at Utah Tech spotlighted the diverse forms of Black excellence on campus and showcased students who have achieved extraordinary accomplishments in a variety of fields.
Utah Tech's Black Student Union, in collaboration with the Multicultural International Student Association, hosted a “Night of Excellence” gala from 5:30 p.m.
“The recognition of my involvement as a member of the Multicultural Student Association underscores the importance of promoting diversity, inclusion, and social justice within our academic community.” Nevaeh Anderson, a Utah Tech junior and vice president of the association, told St. Louis. . George News.
The gala recognized outstanding achievements across five major categories: academics, leadership and service, athletics and activities, arts and creativity, and social justice and civic engagement. These categories were chosen because they encompass a wide range of students' talents and contributions.
Mr. Anderson received the 2024 Social Justice and Civic Engagement Award.
“Gaining recognition of diverse interests is empowering and highlights a shift toward valuing multidimensional individuals who contribute to social justice, diversity, and civic engagement in a variety of ways,” she said. Ta.
One of the most notable aspects of the “Night of Excellence” was the student-led nomination process. Students were able to nominate a classmate who exemplified excellence in these five categories. This approach celebrates individual accomplishments and contributes to creating a supportive and stimulating campus environment, said Mike Nelson, director of the Center for Inclusion and Belonging.
“The importance of peer-to-peer support was a huge takeaway,” Nelson said. “Students often see their colleagues doing great things and they should be celebrated. We have a great community and input from other students means so much. there is.”
Anderson agreed that it is empowering to be recognized by your classmates.
“An award given by a colleague to a colleague, rather than an officer, brings a deeper, more passionate dimension to the role played every day,” she said. “It fosters mutual admiration and recognition.”
Nelson said the celebration honored the students' hard work and dedication and encouraged a culture of inclusivity and support beyond Black History Month.
Everyone wants to know what the future holds for these groups. For Nelson, the incident made him think about his future.
“We might consider adding more categories or more marketing to give students more opportunity and time to nominate their peers,” he said.
For Anderson, that is the future of the Multicultural Student Association.
“Looking to the future, I aim to expand my advocacy work beyond campus and in the courts, connect with the broader community, and contribute to a more just and equitable society,” Anderson said. . “I look forward to a future where individuals are celebrated for their unique contributions to the betterment of society.”
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