Ohio University Southern Legacy Awards nominations now open, awards honor those promoting Dr. King’s legacy

Each year, Ohio University Southern celebrates the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. throughout the month of January. As part of this celebration, the Ohio University Southern Council on Diversity and Inclusion is accepting nominations for individuals, businesses and non-profit organizations exemplifying the ideals espoused by Dr. King. These awards seek to honor those who promote Dr. King’s legacy and who capture his vision, spirit and leadership in ways big and small.

There are four award categories detailed below:

The “Drum Major” Award

Open to individuals (adult or youth), businesses and non-profit organizations, this award recognizes an individual or group who demonstrates a commitment to and engages in equity and inclusion efforts in the community through putting policies, programs or initiatives in place to improve access to opportunity and success for all people.

In a 1968 sermon, Dr. King Jr. said, "If you want to say that I was a drum major, say that I was a drum major for justice. Say that I was a drum major for peace. I was a drum major for righteousness. And all of the other shallow things will not matter.”

The Dr. Charles Jarrett Emerging Leader Award

Open to Ohio University Southern undergraduate and secondary high school students, this award recognizes students who demonstrate commitment to creating positive change in their campus, school district or community. Recipients must be in good academic standing and not be in violation of any university or secondary school district code of conduct standards.

The Emerging Leader Award is presented in memory of Dr. Charles Jarrett. In his 33-year tenure with Ohio University, Dr. Jarrett was guided by a deeply held belief in equality and dignity for all people. His life exemplified a powerful commitment to improving the quality of life in the Tri-State region, especially for young people.

Alumni Humanitarian Award

This award is presented to an Ohio University Southern graduate who embodies the spirit of volunteerism and sense of community. Nominees demonstrate honesty, dignity for others, integrity, responsibility and promoting the common good. Their leadership or service through volunteerism or their profession will have made a significant influence on the well-being of others.

Beloved Community Service Award

Celebrating the spirit and legacy of Dr. King Jr. as demonstrated through caring, compassion, understanding and tolerance for all people, this award is open to adults, youth, businesses and non-profit organizations. Nominations should include individuals or organizations making significant contributions to the community through programs and activities that help revitalize our community and make it a more desirable place to live.

Nominations may be made at ohio.edu/southern/about/diversity-inclusion/mlk/legacy through Dec. 1, 2023.

Award recipients will be selected by the awards selection committee based on information provided with the submitted nomination, and award winners will be honored during the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Celebration Reception on Jan. 30 at 5:30 p.m.