Our 2022 Award Recipients
Tina Patton, Sojourner Truth Award
“Tina Patton has dedicated a lifetime to breaking barriers, encouraging others, and lifting people up. One of her favorite sayings is, “You may not feel like you have a lot, but using what you have with the right attitude will get you places you never dreamed you could be. Tina Patton has also worked most of her adult life to be a voice for the voiceless in promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all people. This is demonstrated by her volunteer work with organizations dedicated to enriching the lives of those who are in need. Specifically, with the Urban League of St. Joseph County, as an advocate for social issues, where she specifically helped to implement a reading program for area youth to help close the education gap between African Americans and white children.” Tammie Wine
Alex Sejdinaj, Ella Baker Woman Arising Award
“Her number one goal is to bridge the gap in Technology education by offering scholarships, partnering with South Bend School Corporation, Robinson Community Learning Center, Summer Camps at various community centers in the area, teaching adults that are looking for a career change, or just helping mentor female and minority-owned businesses as they look to expand and grow. Alexandra has directly sought out diversity and inclusion in her work by trying to work specifically with communities that have historically thought that technology is not for them. Her goal is to be a visible manifestation of what a “coder” can look like to her students and clients.” David Mattingly
Linda Ontiveros, Youth Justice Award
“Linda is always involved in school clubs and activities that are inclusive of culture and promote enrichment between cultural backgrounds. She treats all her peers with great respect and attention. She is a good friend to all who approach her and is able to friend those that seem lonely or left out. She is one of the leaders of the Latino Student Alliance Club and is always willing to volunteer ideas and service to the club and to other school activities.”