Award Winners Promote Humanitarianism, Social Justice, Tolerance

(LEBANON, Ill., January 22, 2016) - McKendree University presented its annual Humanitarian Awards on Jan. 21 in Bothwell Chapel, honoring the spirit and legacy of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Shaquille Armstrong, a sophomore from East St. Louis, and Roger “Mitch” Nasser, Jr., director of residence life, were recognized for their outstanding work to promote understanding and diversity. The award honors those in the campus community who demonstrate understanding, tolerance, and humanitarian principles and ideals.

Armstrong is dedicated to helping and inspiring others, often donating his time and money to others with less privilege and volunteering at the St. Vincent de Paul Center and local nursing homes. On campus, he is vice-president of McKendree’s Black Student Organization, a student ambassador for the Social Justice and Equity Committee, an event coordinator for the Lyn Huxford Center for Community Service, and a worker in the student affairs department. He is pursuing a degree in sociology-criminal justice, with minors in legal studies and leadership studies. After he graduates in 2019, Armstrong plans to enter law school and eventually become a public defender.

Nasser, an O’Fallon resident, was described as a quiet, ethical leader who confronts intolerance, injustice and inequity. He has facilitated social justice training and education for the past 16 years. Since 2007 he has served as director of residence life at McKendree, where he teaches two courses and advises the Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity. He is scheduled to complete his doctorate in higher education administration from Saint Louis University in May.

The MLK event included music and a dramatic interpretation of excerpts from Dr. King’s speeches by the Reverend Ranodore Foggs, director of public safety at McKendree and pastor of New Horizons Church in East St. Louis.

McKendree University 2016 Humanitarian Award winners Shaquille Armstrong and Roger “Mitch” Nasser

 

McKendree University 2016 Humanitarian Award winners Shaquille Armstrong and Roger “Mitch” Nasser