Mines recognizes diversity, inclusion and access efforts

Campus organizations, faculty members and staff have been recognized for their efforts to enhance diversity, inclusion and access at Colorado School of Mines, whether through working to eliminate bias, creating networks of support for underserved populations or raising awareness of mental health issues.

Mary Elliott, director of residence life and housing, received the Creating a Culture of Inclusion Award and was cited for supporting a robust vision for social justice and inclusion in professional and student staff training and resident programming.

“Mary consistently makes space for engaging conversations or challenges to the status quo, especially when it comes to doing our very best to serve all students and colleagues at Mines,” her nominator wrote.

Derrick Hudson, teaching associate professor of humanities, arts and social sciences, received the Inclusive Educator Award for his outstanding efforts to promote an environment free from bias and discrimination.

“In his classes, he practices and promotes student equality and discussion of their experiences, paths forward and potential futures,” his nominator wrote. “He also speaks with faculty regarding ways to avoid unintended bias in their interactions with students in classes and outside.”

The Employee Engagement Award was presented to Annette Pilkington, director of the Women in Science, Engineering and Mathematics Program and a leading voice in building communities of mutual support and encouraging men to join in support of women on campus.

“She identifies leaders outside of campus and works to bring them here to show our women students what success looks like and how women can be proud of their accomplishments, and proud role models in their community,” her nominator said. “All of this aids in retention and improves climate.”

Emilie Rusch, public information specialist, received the Raising Awareness Award for her work with the Every Oredigger initiative, which promotes mental health, champions resiliency and seeks to prevent suicide at Mines.

“Emilie’s daily, deliberate efforts have changed our campus narrative about mental health, helped normalize and destigmatize self-care and suicide prevention, elevated awareness of DI&A efforts, developed a culture of caring and awareness and led efforts to spread the word about the exemplary efforts of students, faculty and staff doing similar work,” her nominator said. “Her efforts have not only advanced the university’s DI&A strategic plan goals and helped retain students and employees, but they have also likely saved lives.”

The Supporting Student Success Award was given to Andrea Salazar Morgan, director of the Multicultural Engineering Program. “Andrea is one who walks by students’ side as they figure things out so they learn and grow knowing they’re support and cared for. It takes a strong and understanding person to walk this line as we all know,” her nominator said. “Solving problems for students is typically faster and easier than walking beside them through it all, but she knows how important this piece is and has perfected her role.”

The Employee Development Award went to EMPOWER, a women’s group that seeks to help members reach their personal and professional goals and create a strong professional network of empowered women. “The networking and community-building aspects of EMPOWER are important to welcoming new employees, retaining current employees and providing skills development,” according to their nomination.

The Mines section of the Society of Women Engineers received the Outstanding Outreach Award for holding numerous events on campus and beyond to support future generations of women engineers. “They interact with many young women with varied backgrounds from across Colorado, treat everyone as equals and empower them to find their passions,” their nominator said.