April 24, 2014

Haywood to receive ‘Inspiring St. Louisan’ honor

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- Michael Haywood, director of the Office of Minority Affairs in Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s College of Business, will receive an award as an “Inspiring St. Louisan” from the St. Louis County Branch of the NAACP. 

The honor goes to individuals who make noteworthy contributions in the fields of law, business, health care, education, government and advocacy. Haywood will receive the honor for his work in education and advocacy and making the region a stronger place.  He will receive the award at the 76th annual Freedom Fund Fellowship dinner on June 3 at the Clayton Ritz-Carlton Hotel.     

The theme is “All In for Freedom and Equality.” The event serves to raise funds for the organization’s mission and also recognize leaders. 

Haywood is a double alumnus of SIU, earning both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education. He first arrived at the university in 1973 on a wrestling scholarship.  His professional career at SIU dates to 1987 when he became an academic adviser in the College of Business, quickly making it his objective to help students succeed by earning their degrees and securing good jobs in the field.  

The college’s minority program began a few years later and evolved into the College of Business Office of Minority Affairs.  Haywood is the only director the office has had and he continues to work to help students succeed inside and outside of the classroom.     

The Inspiring St. Louisan award is just the latest Haywood has received in recognition of his dedication and commitment.  He also earned the 2013 Educator of the Year award for the INROADS Midwest Region, the fourth time he’s earned that award.