Former state representative and keynote speaker Jo Ann Bowman encouraged the crowd at the Black Student Union awards, “Honoring African American Achievement,” to take a stand for their individuality.
“You are facing a world that’s a lot of differences,” she said. “You cannot be afraid to stand up and question if what the masses say is right for you.”
The crowd of more than 50 gathered Monday evening in the EMU Ballroom to honor 20 students, faculty and community leaders making a positive impact. The event was originally scheduled for February as part of the Black History Month celebration.
“We’re here to celebrate those in the community who contributed so much,” BSU Co-Director Kawezya Hutchinson said. “There are a lot (of people) who deserve recognition but do not always receive it, and we don’t always see them in history books,” she said.
Among the list of honorees was Assistant Dean of Diversity Programs Mark Tracy.
“Mark has become a friend, a mentor and the older brother I never had,” BSU Co-Director Haben Woldu said of Tracy’s dedication to the University and her own education.
Midway through the ceremony, the African Student Association entertained the audience with two a cappella songs.
In addition to award recipients on behalf of the University, individuals from Lane Community College Black Student Union and the Black Women of Achievement were also given honors.
Many honorees were praised for their dynamic roles in campus fraternities and sororities, their churches and their communities.
Upon receiving their awards, however, they passed the credit to the people who helped them.
“I wouldn’t be here without God and support from the African American community, family and friends,” said Edniesha Curry, award winner and recent Charlotte Sting. Although Curry’s athletic abilities earn her recognition from across the map, she was honored by the strong support from her ethnic community right here in Eugene.
“Getting awards from African American peers means a lot to me,” she said.