(COLUMBIA, MO) - The 23rd annual Columbia Values Diversity Awards were presented at the annual Columbia Values Diversity Celebration on Thursday, Jan 16. at the Holiday Inn Expo Center. The awards are given to an individual and group that have made significant contributions to promoting diversity and cultural understanding in our community.
City of Refuge, Group 2020 Diversity Award
City of Refuge was founded with the mission to help refugees recover and regain control of their lives by becoming productive, successful and contributing members of our community. City of Refuge is built on the premise that serving others is the highest calling. Its staff and volunteers help refugees become integrated into the larger Columbia community, foster cross-cultural understanding, establish long-lasting friendships and attain the dream they had in coming to this country.
Nikki McGruder, Individual 2020 Diversity Award
Nikki McGruder’s work and perseverance towards building an inclusive Columbia community reflect the life and teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who led others with education, commitment and direct action. McGruder has fostered relationships and forged partnerships with all types of organizations to create room for productive dialogues both informally and through the Journey to Inclusive Excellence. Under her leadership, thousands of community members have been reached through events, training and educational opportunities.
Congratulations to the award winners and mark your calendars for next year’s event on Jan. 14, 2021!
P.O. Box 6015
Columbia, MO 65205
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 16, 2020
CONTACT: Elise Buchheit
Program Specialist
Office of Cultural Affairs
City of Columbia
573.874.6387
[email protected]