Multi-Ethnic Distinguished Service Awards

Mohammed Hirchi

Since arriving at Colorado State University in 1999, Dr. Hirchi has worked hard to promote an appreciation for diversity and multiculturalism on campus, in the community, and in his profession. Thanks to him, we have more opportunities to better understand the Islamic world, the Arab world and its diaspora, Africa, the Caribbean, immigration in France, and Arab women. Professor Hirchi developed the Arabic program at CSU. He has taught six different courses in Arabic, including a summer immersion course and "Arabic Language, Literature and Culture in Translation," a Global & Cultural Awareness course. The mix of Arab and non-Arab students in this discussion-based class allows Dr. Hirchi to help each group engage with the other's culture in a safe environment.

Oscar Felix

For almost twenty years Oscar has served individuals and groups across our campus and Fort Collins communities as well as throughout the state of Colorado. I would like to take this opportunity to provide the selection committee some compelling reasons why Oscar should be selected as this year's recipient. Rather than sharing only my opinion, I have asked several of Oscar's long-time colleagues to include their thoughts on not only how he serves in his professional role to empower under represented people but also how he was gone above and beyond this role to foster a climate of multiculturalism, acceptance, and understanding in majority- minority relationships.

Jennifer "Jan" Iron

Here at Colorado State University, Tyrone Smith, Director of Native American Student Services (NASS) said “Jan Iron has always been supportive of the NASS office and Native American students. She is a very important resource not only for Native students on campus but for the NASS office itself. I value her feedback and recommendations concerning the continuous improvement of the office. Jan is a very important resource for students and especially the Native women. She has served as an advisor for one of the Native student organizations, Native American Student Association, and as a mentor for the student pow wow planning committee”.