By Francisco Omar Fernandez Rodriguez Arts & Features Editor The Division of Diversity, Inclusion, and Community Engagement hosted the “Beacon Awards” in the Dwight Performing Arts Center Auditorium on Jan. 23. Two students served as emcees and welcomed everyone to the event - Maya Brown, ’26, a resident assistant for the Office of Residence Life and Housing, and Izayah Morgan, ’26, a diversity peer influencer for the Center for Inclusive Excellence (CIE) and the opinions editor for The Gatepost. Brown said, “We hope that you will enjoy today’s celebration as we pause to reflect on the life and legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.” They introduced the Greater Framingham Community Church Praise Team, who sang the Black National Anthem “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing.” Afterwards, Brown introduced University President Nancy Niemi, who gave her welcome to everyone. Niemi said everyone at the event came because of their “collective commitment to seeing that Dr. King’s work toward justice and equity moves forward.” While it is great to commemorate the progress made so far, “We are, at the same time, surrounded by evidence that gains in this work are never completely secure, and can be diminished or even erased if left unattended,” Niemi said. “Education is our strongest tool for social equity, a reality. And right now, the forces who do not wish to see this reality are loudly questioning the necessity of our existence,” she said. “They see that those with bachelor’s degrees are increasingly female, Black, Hispanic, and Latino. They may know that more than 50% of U.S. men who identify as gay have a bachelor’s degree, and that the share of first-generation college students who are obtaining bachelor’s degrees is rising rapidly,” Niemi said. When more people are educated, “They see that they too have a rightful place in the world. They see that they belong,” she said. The narrative that college isn’t worth the time and money “does what laws used to do. It keeps people from learning. It keeps people from knowing that they have the power to make changes, and it keeps them from the educational opportunities to make their and others’ lives better in so many ways,” she added. “This is why we believe that education is power, and this is why we join together in instances like this, to learn from others around the world how we can further commit to this end,” Niemi said. Next, Morgan introduced Jerome Burke, the director of the CIE. He explained the purpose of the Beacon Awards. “The Beacon Award is given to members of the Framingham State University community who have gone above and beyond their responsibilities to make noteworthy contributions that help advance inclusive excellence,” he said. “These individuals have demonstrated recognizable efforts related to diversity, inclusion, and equity. And I want to repeat again - diversity, inclusion, and equity,” Burke said. Before announcing the winners, Burke wanted to recognize each of the eight nominees. The nominees who did not win but were still recognized include students Michael Trueswell, Joneisha Zuniga, Jennifer Corey, graduate student Cristina Baez, and FSU Police Officer Shawn Deleskey. Emma Laurie, the program coordinator for the CIE, announced the first winner - Izayah Morgan. Laurie introduced Morgan as a psychology major, diversity peer influencer, and a Gatepost editor. Morgan had an important role in preparing presentations on freedom of speech and safe zone training at the CIE, she said. “Additionally, he has been deeply involved in organizing numerous diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives across campus, always encouraging his peers to engage and participate in these meaningful events,” Laurie said. “As a writer and an editor of The Gatepost, Izayah has used his platform to offer insightful pieces that advocate for equitable treatment and foster discussions on justice and fairness,” Laurie added. Jen Lin, psychology professor, announced the second winner - Olivia Florestal. Lin introduced Florestal as a psychology major and president of the Psychology Club. In that position, Florestal worked on creating “an inclusive space for everyone, with a special focus on supporting students of color,” Lin said. “She’s also organized impactful initiatives such as networking events, grad school discussions, and fundraisers to support local mental health organizations,” she said. Florestal led conversations on systemic racial biases in the mental health care system and supported social justice awareness, she said. Florestal also serves on the Martin Luther King Jr. Day Planning Committee, she added. “Her dedication to fostering representation, inclusion, and equitable opportunities makes her a very well deserving recipient of this award. And I say this, because wholesome recognizes wholesome,” Lin said. Rachel Avard, biology professor, announced the final winner - Chu Ly. “Dr. Ly is an incredible educator and advocate who inspires change and empowers students,” Avard said. Ly encourages first year students “to embrace their potential, make meaningful contributions to their communities, and advocate for themselves in all areas of their lives, whether as part of a team, an academic basis, or beyond,” she said. Ly also supports her students outside the classroom, Avard added. “She personally drove a student over an hour away so that that student could vote in an election, showing her unwavering … commitment to civic engagement and the importance of exercising your rights,” Avard said. Ly made sure students had access to resources and experiences that enrich their education, she said. Ly’s engagement with Framingham’s history has inspired others to explore local history, Avard added. “Moreover, she encouraged students to consider studying Native American history, broadening perspectives and deepening understanding of often overlooked narratives,” Avard said. Burke congratulated the winners and thanked everyone who submitted nominations. “Let’s all play our part in ending social inequalities and creating a world that is more equitable and just,” Burke said. [ Editor’s Note: Izayah Morgan is the Opinions Editor and Michael Trueswell is a Staff Writer for The Gatepost ]