Cultural Center Director Named commonGround Ally Award Winner for 2010

Cultural Center Interim Director Michael Anthony was the recipient of this year’s commonGround Ally Award, presented to him by the members of the commonGround executive board at a September 23 Pride Week keynote address.

Past recipients of the award include University Provost Shirley Willihnganz, Vice Provost for Diversity and International Affairs Mordean Taylor-Archer, Women’s and Gender Studies Chair Nancy Theriot, and Student Activities Board Assistant Director Julie Onnembo.

Anthony was honored for his advocacy and support of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) students, said commonGround President Clay Berry.  “He exudes an aura of comfort, acceptance, and respect for everyone. He’s a safe haven for anyone who is struggling, questioning, or looking for help. In this way, he embodies the qualities of a true ally.  I feel privileged to know him.”

Although he was too overwhelmed to speak at the event, he later expressed his joy at being named an Ally Award winner this year.  “Being an ally to the LGBT community transcends my work at the university, and it is my opportunity to share in the struggles, successes, and victories of a powerful and caring community. The students within the LGBT community family have given me more than I could ever give them.”

Anthony has been the interim director of the Cultural Center since 2008, and in that time has opened up the center to LGBT programming and has sponsored numerous LGBT events and initiatives.  He is a member of the Bias Incident Response Team and a popular diversity trainer who frequently includes LGBT content in his workshops.

His advice for others who aspire to be allies? 

“I think it is important for faculty and staff across the campu to continue to take steps forward as active, concerned, and engaged allies to this community. You’ll be surprised by the change you will make, and the change you will experience.”