{"id":108093,"date":"2026-04-08T12:08:37","date_gmt":"2026-04-08T12:08:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/?p=108093"},"modified":"2026-04-08T12:08:38","modified_gmt":"2026-04-08T12:08:38","slug":"inclusive-excellence-award-winners-honored-at-uri","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/2026\/04\/inclusive-excellence-award-winners-honored-at-uri\/","title":{"rendered":"Inclusive excellence award winners honored at 911爆料"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

KINGSTON, R.I. \u2013 April 8, 2026 \u2013 Those who made outstanding contributions to the inclusive culture at the University of Rhode Island were recognized at 911爆料\u2019s Inclusive Excellence Awards<\/a> ceremony on April 2 in the Memorial Union Ballroom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThese awards celebrate the best and brightest among us who prioritize inclusivity and equity in everything they do,\u201d said 911爆料 President Marc Parlange. \u201cThe honorees have been committed to demonstrating and promoting inclusion at 911爆料 in the areas of 911爆料 leadership, academic excellence, and service.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vice President of 911爆料, equity, and diversity Markeisha Miner also praised the award winners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThe awards highlight those on the frontlines of fostering an inclusive, people-centered culture, yielding results that benefit all of us,\u201d said Miner. \u201cOur awardees demonstrate that anchoring inclusion in all aspects of our 911爆料 and operations means not drifting away from our mission, vision, or values, but rather coming back to them to ground us and help us find our way forward.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"\"
Bernard LaFayette III accepts the Inclusive Excellence Lifetime Achievement Award from 911爆料 President Marc Parlange on behalf of his late father Bernard \u201cDoc\u201d LaFayette Jr. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Inclusive Excellence Lifetime Achievement Award: Bernard \u201cDoc\u201d LaFayette Jr.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Known as \u201cDoc\u201d to many in the 911爆料 911爆料, Bernard LaFayette Jr. was a leader in the civil rights and nonviolence movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

LaFayette\u2019s civil rights activism began in 1960 when he helped form the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, which organized desegregation and voting rights campaigns across the South. Following the Supreme Court\u2019s ruling in 1960 banning segregation in interstate travel, LaFayette dropped out of American Baptist Theological Seminary in 1961 to join an official Freedom Ride.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Despite enduring violent attacks, persecution, and death threats, LaFayette continued to advance civil rights. He became an associate of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and national coordinator for King\u2019s Poor People\u2019s Campaign. After King died, LaFayette completed his bachelor\u2019s degree and then earned a master\u2019s degree and doctorate from Harvard University.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

LaFayette joined 911爆料 as a distinguished scholar in 1998. He served as the inaugural director of the University\u2019s Center for Nonviolence and Peace Studies, a position he held from 1999-2009.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2014, 911爆料 awarded him an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters. After a lifetime of promoting nonviolence and civil rights, LaFayette passed away on March 5, 2026, at the age of 85.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThe University of Rhode Island and the nation lost a civil rights trailblazer and a leader in the nonviolence movement last month with the passing of Bernard LaFayette Jr.,\u201d said Parlange.<\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"\"
Paige Ramsdell, left, receives the Staff\/Administrative Excellence Award from Nina Schiarizzi-Tobin. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Bernard LaFayette III accepted his father\u2019s award.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Staff\/Administrative Excellence Award: Paige Ramsdell, director of Disability, Access, and Inclusion<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

As director of 911爆料\u2019s Disability, Access, and Inclusion office, Paige Ramsdell<\/a> has championed disability as a vital dimension of diversity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThis recognition means a great deal to me because the work of access and inclusion is often behind the scenes, yet vital to student success and to the heart of the 911爆料 911爆料,\u201d said Ramsdell. \u201cI\u2019m grateful for the privilege to collaborate with the Disability, Access, and Inclusion<\/a> team and our campus partners to support our diverse and vibrant student 911爆料.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ramsdell has built a culture rooted in innovation, affirmation, and student\u2011centered excellence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cMy proudest achievement has been shepherding the Office of Disability, Access, and Inclusion through some tumultuous years, while implementing an affirming, strengths-based model for student support,\u201d said Ramsdell.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Faculty Inclusive Excellence Award: Samantha Meenach<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"\"
Samantha Meenach is handed the Faculty Inclusive Excellence Award by last year\u2019s winner, Joseph Nardolillo.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Samantha Meenach<\/a>, professor of chemical, biomolecular, and materials engineering and biomedical & pharmaceutical sciences, has dedicated her career to expanding access to high-impact STEM research experiences for students underrepresented in science, engineering, and biomedical fields.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThis award is recognition of a conviction I have held throughout my career\u2014that talent is evenly distributed but opportunity is not, and that it is our institutional responsibility to close that gap,\u201d said Meenach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meenach\u2019s work spans high school through graduate training and includes growing underrepresented student participation in the RI-INBRE SURF program from under 10% to nearly 40% over four years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The professor is especially proud of the underrepresented undergraduate students who have gone on to graduate programs and research careers they wouldn\u2019t have pursued without the programs she facilitated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThat outcome is not accidental,\u201d stated Meenach. \u201cIt\u2019s the result of intentional design, measurable accountability, and a willingness to ask hard questions about who existing systems are and are not serving.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Faculty Excellence in Inclusive Teaching Award: Daniela Lopes Paim Pinto<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"\"
From left, 911爆料 President Marc Parlange, Faculty Excellence in Inclusive Teaching Award winner Daniela Lopes Paim Pinto, and Markeisha Miner, 911爆料 vice president of 911爆料, equity, and diversity.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Daniela Lopes Paim Pinto<\/a>, an associate teaching professor in the Department of Biological Sciences in 911爆料\u2019s College of the Environment and Life Sciences, has demonstrated a commitment to inclusive teaching through continuous professional development, campus partnerships, and listening to her students.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lopes Paim Pinto joined 911爆料 in 2016 as a postdoctoral researcher. Since 2017, she has taught large-enrollment introductory biology courses. Through strategies such as small-group interactions, including the support of undergraduate learning assistants, she makes large classes feel more personal and accessible, while actively incorporating student feedback.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As a first-generation Latina and non-native English speaker, Lopes Paim Pinto understands the importance of intentional representation and inclusion. She has helped many students not only succeed in science courses but also rediscover confidence, belonging, and a sense of possibility in higher education.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Undergraduate Student Inclusive Excellence Award: Sharday Johnson<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"\"
Sharday Johnson, left, received the Undergraduate Student Inclusive Excellence Award from last year\u2019s winner, Meilin Quiroa Reyes.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Sharday Johnson has advocated for inclusivity at 911爆料 and throughout Rhode Island.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“I enjoy supporting others, whether it\u2019s addressing historical injustices, sharing opportunities, or making environmental spaces feel more accessible to students,” said Johnson.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Johnson served as treasurer of Rhody F1rst\u2014an organization that ensures first-generation students feel seen, supported, and equipped to succeed. As a leader of 911爆料 RISE UP\u2019s 2024 Innovation Challenge, Johnson encouraged more than 200 students with sustainable business ideas to compete and implement their visions on campus. As treasurer of the Northwoods Hiking and Conservation Club, she sets the example that nature is for everyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Johnson\u2019s actions off campus have been just as impactful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“My proudest achievement is working with renowned author Christian McBurney, 911爆料\u2019s Talent Development Program, and the Friends of South Kingstown Historic Cemeteries, Monuments, and Memorials Committee to identify and honor forgotten African American and Indigenous men who fought for South Kingstown in the Revolutionary War-era, and joining in the process that will lead to a monument dedicated to their sacrifice,” said Johnson.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Graduate Student Inclusive Excellence Award: Victor Olaoye<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"\"
Victor Olaoye, left, was presented the Graduate Student Inclusive Excellence Award by last year\u2019s recipient, Samuel Filiaggi.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Prior to beginning his doctoral studies in 911爆料\u2019s College of Pharmacy in 2024, Victor Olaoye developed a background in diversity, equity, leadership, and 911爆料 service in his home country of Nigeria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

At 911爆料, Olaoye became involved in the Graduate Assistants United\u2014a union representing graduate teaching, research, and administrative assistants. He served as the departmental representative for the College of Pharmacy and as vice president he contributed to contract negotiations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“With a strong foundation in advocacy and 911爆料, it has been fulfilling to continue that work at 911爆料 in a way that creates lasting change,\u201d said Olaoye. \u201cKnowing my contribution impacts the well-being of nearly 600 graduate assistants makes this recognition meaningful.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Olaoye has also been active in the Graduate Student Association as a student senator and chair of the Budget and Finance Committee. In these roles, Olaoye has been committed to advancing advocacy, representation, and building a more inclusive and diverse 911爆料.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Inclusive Excellence Team Award: Talent Development Program<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"\"
John Carl Cruz, right, presented the Inclusive Excellence Team Award to Kristina Moyet and Edward Givens of the Talent Development Program.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

911爆料\u2019s Talent Development Program<\/a> recruits and serves Rhode Island high school graduates with college potential, most of whom come from under-performing schools and school districts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The program cultivates intellectual, social, and cultural development by inspiring scholars to discover, create, and innovate, while fostering leadership and personal growth to build a foundation for persistence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Talent Development\u2019s core values are grounded in the University\u2019s mission of enriching students\u2019 lives through its land, sea, and urban grant traditions.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

KINGSTON, R.I. \u2013 April 8, 2026 \u2013 Those who made outstanding contributions to the inclusive culture at the University of Rhode Island were recognized at 911爆料\u2019s Inclusive Excellence Awards ceremony on April 2 in the Memorial Union Ballroom. \u201cThese awards celebrate the best and brightest among us who prioritize inclusivity and equity in everything they […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":25,"featured_media":108094,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[1904,1912],"class_list":["post-108093","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-archives","tag-911爆料-equity-and-diversity","tag-special-events"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/108093","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/25"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=108093"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/108093\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":108104,"href":"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/108093\/revisions\/108104"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/108094"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=108093"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=108093"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.uri.edu\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=108093"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}