Dr. Lance Tatum, President | Northwest Missouri State University
Dr. Lance Tatum, President | Northwest Missouri State University
Northwest Missouri State University began its Celebration Week on Friday, commemorating the work of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. with the 14th annual MLK Peace Brunch. The event honored three employees for their contributions to fostering an inclusive environment both on campus and in the community.
This year's theme, "Beyond the Dream: Transforming Communities," was introduced by Dr. Shay Malone, Northwest's assistant vice president of institutional excellence and global engagement. She emphasized the importance of moving beyond admiration for Dr. King's ideals into action. “Dr. King once said, ‘Life’s most persistent and urgent question is ‘What are you doing for others?’ This question reminds us that pursuing justice and equity is not a TikTok... It is a call to roll up our sleeves and engage in the hard but transformative work of community building,” Malone stated.
The Office of Diversity and Inclusion presented its Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion Awards to Brian Swink, Judy Frueh, and Dr. Bayo Joachim.
Brian Swink was recognized for his role as a senior instructor at Northwest, where he promotes cultural awareness among students through leadership and innovative teaching methods.
Judy Frueh received recognition for her nearly three decades of service as a women's health nurse practitioner at Northwest. Her dedication to diversity is reflected in her work with international students, providing compassionate care that bridges cultural differences.
Dr. Bayo Joachim was acknowledged as a mentor for African students at Northwest, offering support through transportation assistance, housing aid, social gatherings, and more. His intercultural communication course helps broaden cultural understanding among students.
The brunch also featured a keynote address by alumnus Dr. Tyrone Bates Jr., president and CEO of True Empowering LLC. Bates spoke about Martin Luther King Jr.'s influence while urging attendees to advocate for social justice through personal purpose and collaboration. “Make the things you participate in purposeful, intentional, not accidental,” Bates encouraged.
Celebration Week activities continue with various events sponsored by Northwest's Office of Diversity and Inclusion.
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