August 16, 2023

Women of Action nomination deadline is Aug. 21

The SIU Women’s Resource Center is hosting the second Women of Action Awards ceremony at 5 p.m. Aug. 29 in Morris Library’s John C. Guyon Auditorium. 

The program “Celebrating the Women We Know” will honor “everyday heroes” who make a difference and encourage women, including those in leadership, to advocate for anti-racism, diversity, equity and inclusion (ADEI). Award recipients also overcome adversity in their workplaces and communities and prevailed. The program is part of the university’s Diversity Week activities, “Celebrating Carbondale’s Diverse Communities,“ Aug. 28-Sept. 1. 

Nomination forms for the Women of Action Awards, which recognize the achievements of women from diverse backgrounds who lead, inspire and serve the campus and local community are available. The nomination deadline is 11:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 21. 

Three awards will go to women who are SIU faculty or staff members: 

  • Woman of Inspiration – someone who empowers and supports women and champions the inclusion of women.
  • Ascend – one who is a “rising star” in advocating for women and their goals.
  • Above and Beyond – a current SIU student who is a go-getter and young role model. 

Two awards will be presented to community members: 

  • Champion of Change – a woman who has a sustained commitment to women and/or diversity issues.
  • Empowering the Youth – a teacher or staff member in grades K-12 who makes a difference in young lives. 

Everyone is welcome to attend the ceremony, which will feature a short reception after the ceremony. However, online reservations are required no later than Aug. 26. 

For more information, contact Renada Greer, executive director, Student Multicultural Resource Center and director, Trio Student Support Services, at renadag@siu.edu or Bethany Peppers, program director, SIU Student Engagement, at bpeppers@siu.edu. 

The program is sponsored by the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, the Student Multicultural Resource Center and Women’s Resource Center.