East Stroudsburg University honored Dr. Patricia Graham, professor emerita of intercultural and interdisciplinary studies, as ESU’s recipient of the second annual Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Keepers of the Flame Award from Pennsylvania’s State System of Higher Education (PASSHE).
The award recognizes an individual from each of the 14 State System university campuses for their contributions to creating and promoting diverse, equitable and inclusive environments that cultivate a sense of belonging. The award recipients were announced during PASSHE’s annual DEI Summit held at Shippensburg University.
“Each recipient of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education’s Keepers of the Flame award embodies the best in humanity – demonstrating a commitment to raising awareness about important issues and advocating for ‘doing the right thing,’” said Dr. Denise Pearson, vice chancellor and chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) officer at the Office of the Chancellor. “PASSHE university communities have long understood the intersection between academic excellence, DEI and student success. This year, we are truly pleased to celebrate the contributions of Dr. Graham and the other recipients, and we lift them up as role models to emulate. It is a privilege to honor them.”
Graham made substantial strides in advancing the promise of diversity, equity, and inclusion through her academic work and in the community as an ESU faculty member from 1977 to 2013.
As an educator, she is dedicated to inclusive teaching practices. Her classroom was a welcoming and safe space for students of all backgrounds, fostering an environment where every student felt valued and heard. Graham also mentored numerous students, athletes, coaches and faculty, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. Her guidance, support, and advocacy propelled many of her mentees to remarkable success in their education and careers.
Among her many accomplishments, Graham is renowned for her efforts to develop ESU’s scholarship program for Prince Hall Elementary School students in Philadelphia who demonstrate outstanding academic performance and strong civic engagement.
In retirement, Dr. Graham continues to support ESU’s diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. Her contributions have significantly advanced the cause of creating inclusive environments for the campus and the surrounding community.
More information about the commitment of the State System and its universities to cultivating diverse, equitable and inclusive environments is available on the PASSHE website.