Unity in Diversity Gala honors student achievements

By Maddi Achtyl 

Photo Credit: scdiversity Instagram

Stonehill College hosted its first-ever Unity in Diversity Gala, a formal event celebrating the achievements of student-led affinity groups.

Organized by SGA’s Diversity Committee in partnership with the Office of Intercultural Affairs, the Gala was an evening of recognition, networking, and celebration of community impact. 

Forty-eight students, including Greg Wolfe, the director of purchasing, his wife, and a Stonehill alum, were in attendance.  

The event began with a three-course meal catered by Bon Appétit followed by an awards ceremony. Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in a raffle supporting La Colaborativa, a Massachusetts-based organization dedicated to empowering the Latinx community. 

The Gala featured several awards, recognizing student organizations that have made significant contributions to the Stonehill community and beyond. Five award categories were presented, and four student-led affinity groups won awards.  

The first award presented was the ‘Partnership Impact Award,’ which recognizes outstanding collaborations that drive meaningful change and create lasting value. Black Student Union received the award for its dedication to fostering meaningful collaborations that drive positive change on campus and beyond.  

Black Student Union also won the ‘Social Media Management Award’ for its innovative strategies in engaging audiences and elevating brand visibility. 

Pan Asian Alliance was presented with the ‘Community Impact Award,’ which is awarded to a student organization that has made a significant difference in Stonehill's community through impactful initiatives, service, and positive change.  

The ‘Outstanding Leadership Award’ was presented to an executive board that demonstrates exceptional leadership, collaboration, and strategic vision. This award celebrates the board's ability to drive success, navigate challenges, and inspire growth and impact. LatinX was the recipient of this award. 

Photo Credit: Maddi Achtyl

The final award presented was the ‘Innovative Programming Award,’ given to RISE for organizing unique and forward-thinking programs, pushing boundaries, engaging audiences, and delivering exceptional impact. 

The evening highlighted the tremendous work student-led affinity groups are doing to foster inclusivity, create meaningful connections, and drive positive change within the Stonehill community and beyond.