SGA hosted the Unity in Diversity Gala

By Alex Guia

The Unity in Diversity gala was an event organized by Stonehill’s SGA committee to celebrate the hard work of the affinity and OIA dialogue groups. The event invited 50 attendees, including faculty, affinity group members, and the diversity committee.  

The affinity and OIA groups received awards during the gala to recognize their hard work and excellence in making an impact on the Stonehill community. 

Through their dedication in supporting, connecting, and using diverse voices, these groups exemplify leadership and collaboration.   The Partnership Impact award was won by the Black Student Union, a club that promotes Black culture and history. 

The award was given to recognize the group's collaborations that inspire big change and leave an impact on communities. The award itself celebrates partnerships that positively impact the Stonehill community.   The second award was given to Brasa, a Brazilian Student association that celebrates Brazilian culture and community.  They received the Outstanding Leadership Award. This award was bestowed upon the group for demonstrating exceptional leadership and encouraging success and growth.

The Social Media Management Award was given to the Pan Asian Alliance group. This group focuses on sharing the many traditions and values of Asia and its culture. 

The award was given to recognize the group’s excellence in engaging audiences on social media, delivering impressive results, and boosting the group’s brand. The award is known for symbolizing an effective campaign by the social media manager in the Stonehill community.   The last award of the evening, the Innovative Programming Award, was presented to RISE. The Radiant Inspirational Sisters Empowered (RISE) is a group that inspires women of color at Stonehill to use their voices through group dialogue. 

This reward emphasizes a group's ability to drive change through new approaches and solutions. The RISE group exceeds expectations, interests audiences, and positively contributes to the community. 

The second annual Unity in Diversity gala highlighted the importance of diverse student groups and the unification of students and faculty to celebrate the many cultures and voices that help to inspire the Stonehill community. 

Stonehill hopes to celebrate more students and group leaders in the future through events like this one!