The Office of Human Rights, Equity and Accessibility (OHREA) is recognizing five “catalysts for change” to celebrate the 11th annual OHREA awards.

The OHREA Awards recognize and celebrate the contributions made by individuals and groups who work to advance human rights, social justice, inclusivity, employment equity, mental health, and accessibility at the University of Windsor.

“Your unwavering dedication and outstanding contributions have been the bedrock of progress. Fostering an environment that champions human rights, social justice, inclusivity, employment equity, mental health, and accessibility here at the University of Windsor,” Clinton Beckford, vice-president of people, equity, and inclusion, shared in a video virtually introducing the awards.

OHREA Awards are presented in the areas of:

• Accessibility
• Employment Equity
• Human Rights and Social Justice
• Mental Health Champion
• The OHREA Award (overall advancement of culture, diversity, and inclusivity)

This year’s recipients are:

• Laverne Jacobs, professor, Faculty of Law— Accessibility Award
• Debbie Kane, associate dean, Faculty of Graduate Studies — Employment Equity Award
• Kat Pasquach, Aboriginal outreach co-ordinator, Aboriginal Education Centre — Human Rights and Social Justice Award
• Mack Park, Lancers Recover program co-ordinator and UWin Pride co-chair, Office of Student Experience — Mental Health Champion Award
• BIDE Institute (Belonging, Inclusivity, Diversity, and Equity Institute), Office of Student Experience — OHREA Award

“We would like to extend our thanks to the University of Windsor community as we celebrate the contributions made by individuals and groups who advance human rights, social justice, inclusivity, employment equity, mental health, and accessibility,” Kaye Johnson, executive director of Human Rights, Equity, and Accessibility, said.

“OHREA would also like to thank the many committees who work throughout the year to create a more inclusive and welcoming learning environment.”

“This year’s awardees are truly inspiring, embodying our university’s commitment to inclusivity and community spirit. Through education, scholarship, research, and active involvement you have demonstrated the incredible possibilities achievable with innovative thinking, ingenuity, and creativity,” said UWindsor president Robert Gordon.

Videos featuring interviews with each of this year’s recipients will be launched weekly starting Friday, Jan. 26, through the UWindsor YouTube and social media channels.