Rooted in our Catholic social teaching and guided by the principles of inclusivity, St. Ambrose University is unwavering in its commitment to cultivating an environment that embraces and celebrates diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as fundamental values interwoven into every aspect of campus life.
To honor and acknowledge the individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and made significant contributions to advancing DEI within our St. Ambrose community, the DEI office annually awards nominated faculty, staff, and students. These awards serve as a testament to their tireless efforts in implementing policies, conducting research, developing initiatives, and executing programs that align with the University's core values of inclusive excellence.
Each year, three distinct awards are granted: the Impact Award, recognizing faculty and staff; the Promising Leader Award, celebrating students; and the Collective Impact Award, open to campus groups. This year, our winners have exemplified remarkable achievements and made substantial strides in fortifying our campus-wide DEI endeavors.
DEI Awards
To honor and acknowledge the individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication and made significant contributions to advancing DEI within our St. Ambrose community, the DEI office annually awards nominated faculty, staff, and students.
DEI Impact Award - Ann Garton
As the director of the St. Ambrose Institute for Person-Centered Care (IPCC), Ann Garton, DNP has exemplified the person-centered approach in her work. Her dedication and active involvement has positively impacted both the campus and broader community by fostering inclusivity, social justice, and equity.
Most notably, Ann presented the IPCC LGBTQ+ Toolkit for Healthcare Educators at the Iowa Public Health Conference and advocated for improved healthcare for the LGBTQ+ community at the St. Ambrose Francis at 10 conference.
Within the campus community, Ann actively participates in the Service and Social Justice and Sustainability Committees, both of which promote cultural competency and inclusivity. Her volunteer efforts are extensive and she continually utilizes her connections to create meaningful volunteer opportunities. In her nursing courses, Ann integrates inclusion and a service-oriented mindset by engaging students in mission trips and virtual care experiences through Global Brigades, a nonprofit organization that empowers impoverished communities worldwide through healthcare and education.
Beyond campus, Ann serves on the Board of Directors for Tapestry Farms, a local nonprofit dedicated to providing resources and addressing food insecurity for refugees in the Quad Cities.
DEI Promising Leader Award - Samantha Sancen
Samantha Sancen, has used her experiences as a first-generation student to make a significant positive impact on DEI through her various roles and initiatives. Samantha has actively contributed to combating climate change and promoting policy work in the region through her internship at Iowa Interfaith. Her dedication to environmental issues aligns with her position as the Laudato Si' Intern for the Diocese of Davenport, where she continues to advocate for sustainable practices and raise awareness about climate justice.
In addition to her environmental work, Samantha holds several leadership positions on campus. She serves as a Student Government Senator, College Democrats President, and Gray Matters Collective Leader. These roles allow her to advocate for marginalized voices, promote inclusivity, and foster a sense of belonging within the University community. Samantha's involvement in Model United Nations further demonstrates her commitment to global issues and the promotion of international cooperation.
One notable achievement spearheaded by Samantha was her leadership in organizing the Bee the Difference Day volunteer event in fall 2022. This initiative brought together students, faculty, and staff to engage in community service and make a positive impact on the lives of others. By fostering a culture of service and empathy, Samantha actively promotes social justice and equality.
DEI Collective Impact Award - PRISM
PRISM has made a remarkable and positive impact on DEI efforts, not only within St. Ambrose but also in the local Quad Cities community and at the state level. Their advocacy and actions have resulted in significant progress towards achieving DEI goals and values.
One notable achievement of PRISM is their successful campaign to ban conversion therapy in Davenport, making it the first city in Iowa to do so. Conversion therapy is a harmful practice that endangers the well-being of LGBTQIA+ individuals, and PRISM's efforts have played a crucial role in protecting the safety of young people and adults in the community.
Moreover, PRISM has been actively engaged in advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights, raising their voices from Vander Veer Park to the Iowa state capitol. Their involvement and activism go beyond the campus boundaries, striving to create safer, more affirming, and inclusive spaces not only within the institution but also in the wider community.
Learn more about St. Ambrose University's DEI efforts here.
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