News

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville’s Office of Institutional Diversity and Inclusion is honoring 15 females as Phenomenal Women as part of its sixth annual observation in recognition of Women’s History Month. A closer look at this group reveals lives that are full of remarkable character, positive influence, tested strength and a commitment to a diverse and inclusive SIUE. 

“This year’s group represents women around the globe who are actively contributing to diversity and inclusion at SIUE, the region, the nation and the world,” said Venessa A. Brown, PhD, associate chancellor and chief diversity officer. “Chancellor Randy Pembrook and the Office of Institutional Diversity and Inclusion would like to congratulate the 49 women nominated for the SIUE 2020 Phenomenal Woman Award.” 

 This year’s Phenomenal Women received a certificate. They included: 

• Kelly Atkins, assistant director of Transition Services in the Office of Academic Advising
• Stephanie Batson, instructor in the Department of Applied Communication Studies
• Kimberly Carter, PhD, associate professor in the Department of Social Work
• Caroline Crabtree, senior in the School of Education, Health and Human Behavior
• Nathalia Garcia, DDS, SIU School of Dental Medicine department chair of Applied Health
• Carol Gentry, office support specialist in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Diane Hayes, PhD, instructor in the Department of Applied Communication Studies
• Jessica Hinz, PhD, associate professor and director for Campus Wellness, Cultural Awareness, Diversity and Ethics at the SIU School of Dental Medicine
• Dorothy Hummel, executive director at the Alton Area YWCA
• Kelsey King, senior in the College of Arts and Sciences
• Kamariah Lewis, senior in the School of Education, Health and Human Behavior
• Earleen Patterson, PhD, director of the Student Opportunities for Academic Results (SOAR) Center
• Miriam Roccia, associate vice chancellor in the Office of Student Affairs
• Mackenzie Rogers, senior in the School of Education, Health and Human Behavior
• Mary Weishaar, PhD, executive director of the Office of International Affairs 

Also nominated for this year’s award were: Sarah Andersen, Lori Anderson, Kimberly Archer, Kathryn Bentley, Kelley Brooks, Brittany Buchanan, Anne Burton, Lakesha Butler, Rebecca Dabbs-MacLean, Derissa Davis, Alexis Edwards, Rachel Garrett, LaShatá Grayson, Katie Green, Jessica Harris, Alyce Herndon, Belinda James, Mary Kaemmerer, Kelly Jo Karnes Hendricks, Kiera Kennedy, Danielle Lee, Lindsy Perry, Taylor Robinson, Susan Seibert, Josie Smith, Melinda Stitzel, Gail Stukenberg, Lisa Tate, Jessica Ulrich, Rhonda Vonnahmen, Arielle Weaver, Armani Wilder, Mary Lou Wlodarek and Mariah Young. 

The Office of Institutional Diversity and Inclusion has held an annual luncheon to honor the awardees and nominees. This year’s luncheon, scheduled for Friday, March 24, was canceled due to the SIUE policy in response to the COVID-19 health crisis. 

Photo:
Shown are some of SIUE’s 2020 Phenomenal Women and Nominees.