The YWCA Syracuse and Onondaga County is seeking nominations for the 2009 class of the YWCA Academy of Diversity Achievers. Each Year the YWCA offers corporations and organizations an opportunity to nominate individuals in their organization or community that have demonstrated interest in promoting diversity and the elimination of racism, which embodies the YWCA mission.

“It is our hope that this year’s academy members, along with those inductees in the past and future years, will be identified as being among the most accomplished and valued members of their organizations,” said YWCA Executive Joan Durant.

“We believe that your participation in this event will also send a message to our community that your organization is committed to promoting diversity and eliminating racism in the workplace,” said YWCA Board President Debra Eck.

Awards will be presented at the YWCA’s Annual Day of Commitment Luncheon Thursday, April 23, 2009 beginning at noon at the OnCenter in downtown Syracuse. To receive a nomination form for YWCA Academy of Diversity Achievers Award, call or email the YWCA Syracuse & Onondaga County at 424-0040 or [email protected].

The deadline to submit nominations for the 2009 YWCA Academy of Diversity Achievers is February 13, 2009.

Award winners will join an ever-growing membership of honorees. Every year, each inductee into the YWCA Academy of Diversity Achievers will be chronicled in a commemorative booklet to be distributed at the luncheon.

To be eligible, these individuals should demonstrate or meet one or more of the following criteria:

1. Participated in programs to promote and embrace diversity

2. Support opportunities for Woman’s growth & leadership

3. Embody the spirit of peace, justice, freedom, and dignity

4. Working toward the elimination of racism

The YWCA operates nine Out of School Time sites (5-12 yrs) in three school districts, programs at Zonta House, and a Women’s Residence program. For information about any of our programs, please call the YWCA at 315-424-0040.