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MLK Humanitarian Awards Honor Faculty Leaders

Lebanon, IL (02/04/2021) — Each year McKendree University recognizes student and faculty leaders who demonstrate humanitarian qualities and the philosophy of nonviolent social change advocated by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Faculty members honored in 2021 are Dr. Pamela Manning, associate professor of education; and Dr. Martha Patterson, professor of English, who dedicated her award to Dr. J.L. Simmons, professor of psychology.

The MLK Humanitarian Award recipients show increased understanding and tolerance for all people; embrace humanitarian principles and ideals; and lead or participate in programs or service which reflect these ideals. These include racial harmony, socio-economic empowerment, religious understanding, social justice, and generosity and hospitality, reflecting an attitude of acceptance of differences.

The awards were presented in a recent ceremony organized and conducted by Brent Reeves, Director of Equity and Inclusion, and Rev. Tim Harrison, chaplain. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the awards presentation was recorded for viewing online here.

Dr. Pam Manning teaches graduate students in evening classes but she is highly involved in the lives of undergraduate students as well. She shows up regularly to support student-sponsored events and activities and makes sure their voices are heard and respected.

While Manning supports all McKendree students and their wellbeing, she has a special affinity for creating community among students of color. She helped students start ELITE, a chapter of the National Association of Colored Women's Clubs. It celebrates their accomplishments and connects them with the broader community of Black women who came before them and helped pave the way forward. Manning is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta sorority, a sisterhood of predominantly Black, college educated women devoted to public service.

A stalwart member of the SJEC since its inception, Manning has led several conversations on campus about diversity, inclusion and social justice, eloquently speaking her mind about issues of fairness and equity. She believes in the dignity of each person and tries to use her voice and actions to raise others. She wants all students, faculty and staff members to feel respected, heard and valued as members of the McKendree family, and forges personal relationships with a wide variety of people in her effort to build community.

Dr. Martha Patterson seeks out opportunities for underrepresented groups as the university's coordinator of prestigious scholarships and fellowships. Behind the scenes, she is a tireless advocate for resources to allow students to succeed.

She is a scholar of the extraordinary and often unsung accomplishments of African American writers, mentors and activists. Her latest book project, "The Harlem Renaissance Weekly," examines the work of African American writers who were published in popular black newspapers in the early 20th century. Sharing her passion for African American literature with her students, she pushes them to grapple with the complicated history of race in America. She has co-taught honors classes that explored East St. Louis and introduced students to its notable figures, such as poet Eugene Redmond.

Patterson dedicated her award to Dr. J.L. (Kemp) Simmons, professor of psychology, in recognition of her promotion of diversity and inclusion on campus and throughout the region; her selfless dedication to her colleagues and students; and her years of community service in Belleville, Cahokia and East St. Louis schools. Simmons has devoted her personal and professional life to mentoring young people, particularly African American youth. Quoting several of Simmons' former students, Patterson noted how influential the psychology professor has been in recruiting and retaining African American students at McKendree, building their confidence and self-esteem, and inspiring many to pursue advanced degrees.

Simmons admitted she had to be convinced to accept Patterson's award but was clearly touched by the gesture. "It's a good thing when your colleagues give you accolades," she said. "I've never, ever had someone give to me something that was awarded to them. How selfless. That is such a wonderful gift. We need that in this country today."

Media Attachments

Dr. Pamela Manning (left) and Dr. Martha Patterson (center) received the 2021 McKendree University MLK Humanitarian Award winners. Dr. Patterson dedicated her award to Dr. J.L. Simmons (right) for her commitment to diversity and inclusion, her service to the university and region, and her devotion as a mentor to young people.

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