Recipients of Penn State Scranton's Excellence in Diversity Awards were honored at the campus' annual Martin Luther King Day celebration at the campus. Campus winner Francesca Orellana, at left, a fourth-year HDFS major received the campus award for her work in promoting diversity, equity and inclusion through her roles with campus clubs and leadership positions. Retired campus chancellor Marwan Wafa, Ph.D., and his wife, Sahar Al-Masri received the Community Excellence in Diversity Awards for their work in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment both at Penn State Scranton and within the local community.
DUNMORE, Pa. — Penn State Scranton commemorated Martin Luther King Jr. Day with a moving celebration that brought together students, faculty and staff to honor the legacy of the civil rights leader.
The event featured a poignant performance by the "King’s Dream" group, which combined narration, song and video clips from King’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, as well as other historic news clips and events. The performance emphasized the continuing struggle for civil rights and reinforced the relevance of King’s message in the present day.
In addition to the performance, Penn State Scranton held its annual Excellence in Diversity Awards ceremony, recognizing two individuals who have demonstrated commitment and outstanding efforts towards fostering a community that highlights diversity, equity and inclusion.
Former Penn State Scranton Chancellor Marwan Wafa and his wife Sahar Al-Masri received the Community Excellence in Diversity Award for their significant roles in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment on the Scranton campus and within the community.
Their leadership helped establish the Diversity Circles Program, an eye-opening experiential program where attendees from diverse backgrounds and experiences can come together to learn from one another how to express and receive opinions contrary to their own and become agents of inclusion and spread the message of acceptance and quality in our communities.
Human Development and Family Studies major Francesca Orellana was awarded the Campus Excellence in Diversity Award for her work in promoting diversity, equity and inclusion through student clubs and leadership roles.
Her efforts have been central in fostering a more inclusive campus community through promoting multicultural services, programs, events, clubs and organizations that specifically promote the importance of diversity and address the academic, social, professional and living needs of underrepresented populations.
The celebration also marked the start of a week of service activities, with Penn State Scranton students, staff and faculty volunteering at local organizations as part of the campus’ “Days of Service” initiative. This effort highlights the connection between King’s legacy and ongoing community service.
The MLK Celebration highlighted the importance of unity, service and continued work toward a more just and equitable society. Penn State Scranton strives to challenge individuals to discover their full potential, appreciate, embrace, respect and celebrate all cultures.
