🍀Celebration of Humanity 🍀
On Tuesday, Jan 20th, evening, a wonderful event that has started 37 years ago - The Rev. Dr Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration sponsored by a consortium of five colleges and universities in the Charleston area took place and I was part of it in a meaningful way- as an awardee.
I feel honored and deeply humbled to be selected as the 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Humanitarian Award by The Consortium’s MLK Humanitarian Award Committee.
This recognition of my advocacy on the
#Tigray war and its humanitarian consequences, my humanitarian service, and mentorship, within MUSC, near and afar communities, and my service to the research profession, means a great deal to me.
Dr. King reminded us that “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” His words remain profoundly relevant as communities across the world continue to face serious human rights violations, displacement, and barriers to dignity and safety.
As we reflect on his legacy, I invite colleagues, partners, students and fellow professionals to continue strengthening our collective commitment to equity, compassion, and principled action.
Whether through scholarship, mentorship, clinical service, or community engagement, each of us plays a role in advancing human rights and protecting the vulnerable.
Thanks to the Committee for this meaningful honor. I remain committed to carrying forward the ideals of service and humanity that Dr. King championed.
I would like to thank my mentees Courtney Jackson and Ralph Ward for their nomination (sweeter when recognized by your mentees) and Dr Florez of DPHS and Dr Santa Ana of HERO innovation Center of the Charleston VA for supporting the nomination.
I would like to thank my family, especially my late mom, who has been a cause for me to fight against injustice peacefully and my great friends, colleagues and mentors who came from near and far to share our celebration.
I would also like to thank Dr
@DantePelzer, President of the Consortium and MUSC MLK committee, for his leadership and MUSC for believing in my humanitarian work, the College of Charleston for hosting the event.
Last but not least, many thanks to the college students who served as ushers, choirs and a-cappella from the different colleges, the President of CofC
@CofCHsu (Dr Hau), President of Charleston Southern University (Dr Faulkner), Trident Tech President (Dr Wood) and their teams for gracing the event.
Special mention- Kiros Gebremedhin who travelled from Atlanta to be part of our joy! የቐንየለይ!!
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