Trinity Recognizes Recipients of Catherine Yonker Award for Diversity
The Ethnic Diversity Committee recently named Cynthia Coffey ’13 of Robbins, Illinois; Alejandra Romo ’15 of Chicago; and Dr. Robert Rice, professor of history, as the recipients of the Catherine Yonker Award for Diversity during the College’s Celebration of Asia in April.
The award is given annually to members of the Trinity community who make contributions toward accomplishing Christian race relations and cross-cultural understanding.
Coffey is a psychology major who is a member of the committee and also serves as a diversity assistant to Don Woo, dean for ethnic diversity and multicultural programs. In this position, she has worked diligently to promote racial reconciliation on Trinity’s campus.
“Serving enables me to participate in God’s ultimate mission of reconciling the people of the earth as we all journey toward God’s new creation,” said Coffey.
Romo is a criminal justice major and a co-chair of Sabor Latino, a multicultural club for students. She was also a recipient of the Greater Chicago Christian Leadership Scholarship for her academic excellence, leadership, and Christian commitment.
“Alejandra exhibited leadership from the moment she came on campus,” said Woo.
Dr. Robert Rice is currently in his 33rd year as a professor of history at Trinity. He served several years as a member of the committee, some as the committee chair. Although he is no longer a member, Rice continues to support its members and counsel faculty in promoting diversity.