Armstrong State University recognized individuals for their contributions to Armstrong and the community, as well as in advancing the university’s African-American student population, at the fifth annual Martin Luther King Jr. Awards Dinner on Feb. 23. A highlight of Black Heritage Month, the Awards Dinner also paid special tribute to Armstrong’s 1960s alumni.
 
City Council Alderman Van R. Johnson served as the keynote speaker at the event. The following individuals were recognized at the awards dinner:

Exceptional Service & Leadership – Linda M. Bleicken, Armstrong President

Outstanding Faculty – Maya Clark, Ph.D., Armstrong Rehabilitation Sciences Director

Outstanding Staff – Tobe Frierson, Armstrong Director of Admissions

Outstanding Student Organization - Armstrong NAACP

Outstanding Student Leader – Chelsea Sawyer

Outstanding Greek Organization - Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Sigma Tau

Outstanding Alumni – Latoriya Young, Armstrong Financial Aid Assistant

The Spirit of MLK – Oraleethia Morgan, Armstrong student

Outstanding Legacy – Nashia Whittenburg, Armstrong Director of Multicultural Affairs

Outstanding Service to the Community – Shirley James, Savannah Black Heritage Festival Coordinator
 
“It’s an honor to be recognized alongside these incredible people and organizations,” said Armstrong Director of Multicultural Affairs and Outstanding Legacy Award recipient Nashia Whittenburg. “We will continue to work together to celebrate diversity and create new opportunities for our students.”
 
Black Heritage Month is held throughout the month of February every year and includes dozens of events including lectures, movie screenings, activities and performances. Sponsored by Armstrong’s Office of Multicultural Affairs, all events celebrate diversity and inclusiveness.