Honoring the Work of Faculty, Students, and Allies of the Native Community at the University of Oregon
The award was originally conceptualized by Leilani Sabzalian in her role as the Native American Retention Specialist at CMAE in 2014. At that time, they were called the STAR award which stands for Service, Tradition and Academic Recognition award. In 2015 when Stephanie Tabibian was hired in the role, the name changed to Proudly Recognizing Indigenous Devotion to Education Awards. This award celebrates the outstanding work being done by our Native students, faculty, staff, and community members both on and off campus. It also allows us to honor the work of our allies, as we work collectively to empower our students on their educational journeys. To date, there have been over 100 individuals celebrated.
Artwork
Every Year a call for art is put out for Native or Indigenous students currently enrolled the University of Oregon to submit art to be used at the award artwork. Any medium or format is accepted. Artists are encouraged to make a piece that shares their personal voice, heritage, and motifs that are important to them and their community. The Call for art is announced every Winter Term and can be accessed here. Students are compensated with a prize for the use of their images.
Nominations
Students, faculty, staff, or community members are encouraged to nominate other Students, faculty, staff, or community members they feel have made a significant contribution to the support of the Native Community here on the University of Oregon campus. These can be individuals that have helped you or others in your pursuit of educational success at UO, have been personally involved cultural programming or education, or had exhibited commitment to their peers and community. To nominate you need the individuals name and a reason for their nomination. The Nomination form opens every Winter term and can be accessed here.