Champion of Diversity Awards
Champion of Diversity Awards are given each year in January to individuals or groups who have made an outstanding contribution to creating an inclusive and welcoming community.
2012 Champion of Diversity
Frederick Douglas was nominated for because of his extraordinarily active role in our community. Whether through civic or social activities he has opened his home and heart to many who have felt the injustices of social alienation. His active participation with the Diversity Council, the NAACP, Mayo Clinic and the City of Rochester, his formal and informal mentorship of youth, and as a host for foreign exchange students, has made him a well-known figure in Rochester. He takes every opportunity to expose himself and his family to interacting with and learning about other cultures. He shares the essence of his native culture as an African American with others through the celebration of Kwanzaa and Juneteenth. He embodies and lives the highest standards and ideals of diversity and inclusion, not only as a diverse individual, but as one that upholds the virtues of humanity. He is a true Champion of Diversity!
Rabbi Michelle Werner
is devoted to bringing comfort, knowledge, and awareness to the community and to overcoming ignorance ALL of the time. In addition to her total commitment to the people and faith that she serves, she is noted for the following efforts. Her service to our community members who have been victimized by hate crimes and incidents is well-known. She brought together many people inside and outside of Rochester’s faith communities, embracing inclusion in its truest sense, to demonstrate to the people of Rochester that hate has no place here. She has nurtured and brought to fruition a monthly gathering of Jewish and Muslim women, giving them the opportunity to sit down with one another, find common ground, appreciate each other, celebrate similarities and honor differences. A remarkable person and servant leader! (pictured accepting her award from Executive Director Kay Hocker).
Photos courtesy of Joe Kane, Mayo Clinic photographer.
