Two Professors Receive Lifetime Awards at Black Faculty and Staff Dinner
Faculty members comprising Stockton University's Africana Studies program, which is celebrating its 40th year, received a Special Recognition Award at the dinner.
Galloway, N.J. —Two Stockton University professors with a combined 64 years of teaching were among the honorees at the Stockton Council of Black Faculty and Staff 39th annual Scholarship Award Dinner and Dance at the Carriage House on Nov. 2.
The council celebrated 51 years of service to Stockton and to date has awarded $273,500 in scholarships to both undergraduate and graduate students.
“The dinner was our first, post-COVID-19,” said Patricia Collins, the president of the Council of Black Faculty and Staff. “The event was filled with excitement as we celebrated our honorees and their successes, commitment to CBFS, Stockton University, students, community and the state of New Jersey. These scholarships are also key in helping support the academic success of our students.”
Stockton President Joe Bertolino acknowledged the significant contributions of the school’s Black faculty and staff and the group’s recognition as the longest established organization at the university.
“They are dedicated teachers, researchers, mentors and leaders, and they play a vital role in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for our campus community,” he said.
Janice Joseph, distinguished professor of Criminal Justice, and Beverly Vaughn, professor of Music and Stockton’s vocal/choral program coordinator, received lifetime achievement awards.
“They are shining examples of dedicated educators, with extensive experience in their field, celebrated among their peers for their expertise and passion for mentoring our students,” Bertolino said.
Donnetrice Allison, a professor of Africana Studies and Communication Studies, received a merit award, while the Africana Studies program, which is celebrating its 40th year at Stockton, received a Special Recognition Award.
Two graduates were presented with Distinguished Alumni Awards: Joseph E. Gaynor II ’99, a computer scientist at the William J. Hughes Technical Center in Egg Harbor Township; and Shedia R. Laguer, Ed.D. ’22, the manager of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
The Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Pi Chi Chapter was presented with the Outstanding Stockton Club or Organization Award.
— Story and photos by Mark Melhorn
