2022 Champions of Diversity

YWCA Champions of Diversity

Congratulations to the 2022 YWCA Champions of Diversity Awardees! At this year’s Day of Commitment to Eliminate Racism and Promote Diversity, we were thrilled to recognize Shawni Davis, Dr. Lemir Teron, and Eric Derachio Jackson Jr. for their powerful impact on the Syracuse community.

AWARD OVERVIEW

The Champion of Diversity Award is presented to residents, community leaders, and professionals that have engaged in significant efforts to promote diversity and eliminate racism locally or at a national level. These actions capture the YWCA’s mission of eliminating racism and empowering women, and they strengthen the fabric of our community by helping to advance opportunities for all.

Nominees demonstrate two or more of the following criteria:

  • The individual embodies and defends the values of justice, peace, dignity, and equality
  • The individual is actively leading or participating in programs that embrace and promote diversity and inclusion
  • The individual’s work supports opportunities for women’s growth and leadership
  • Through their work or advocacy, the individual is creating opportunities for persons and professionals of color

Awardees are publicly recognized and inducted into the YWCA Academy of Diversity Achievers each spring during the Day of Commitment to Eliminate Racism and Promote Diversity. This year’s event was held on Thursday, April 28, at the Marriott Syracuse Downtown. The Day of Commitment promotes progress and equips participants with the tools to eradicate racism and form a more inclusive and equitable society.

2022 AWARD RECIPIENTS