Faculty Diversity Award 

The Faculty Diversity Award recognizes a faculty member who demonstrates a sustained commitment to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging at Blackburn College. This award honors faculty who champion equitable practices, foster inclusive learning environments, and model the values central to Dr. King’s legacy. 

Staff Diversity Award

The Staff Diversity Award honors a staff member who goes above and beyond in supporting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging efforts across campus. This award celebrates individuals who help build a welcoming environment, support equitable practices, and positively impact the campus community through their daily work. 

Mission and Values

Blackburn College links a rigorous and affordable liberal arts education with a unique student-managed Work Program preparing graduates for careers, community engagement, and lifelong learning.

The Blackburn community values critical and independent thinking, leadership development, diversity and inclusion, service, shared governance, and moral responsibility.

Criteria for Faculty and Staff Diversity Award

Blackburn College strives to encourage an environment of dialogue where diversity, equity, inclusion, respect, collaboration and innovation are fostered. In keeping with Blackburn College’s mission, values, and vision, this award will be given annually to one staff and one faculty member. Below are the listed criteria for nominating a staff or faculty member.

Diversity is defined as: the range of human differences, including but not limited to race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, social class, physical ability or attributes, religious or ethical values system, national origin, and political beliefs.

Equity is defined as: refers to fair and just practices that ensure access, resources, and opportunities are provided for all to succeed and grow.

Inclusion is defined as: involvement and empowerment, where the inherent worth and dignity of all people are recognized. An inclusive college promotes and sustains a sense of belonging; it values and practices respect for the talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and ways of living of its members.

Nomination Form

Students may submit one nomination for both faculty and staff.