photo courtesy of Laura Harwin
Edward Scott (center) poses with his YWCA Racial Justice Award at 23rd annual Racial Justice Awards luncheon on Oct 29. Scott was recognized in the education category for his Accounting Awareness Program.
Two Point Park officials received the YWCA’s racial justice award last week for their work in promoting diversity in the workplace.
The officials, Police Chief Jeffrey Besong and accounting professor Edward Scott, received the award at the 23rd annual Racial Justice Awards luncheon, where they were praised by members of the YWCA and the community, including Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto.
Peduto made a speech about the importance of talking about uncomfortable topics such as racism, saying part of the challenge is that “we’re sort of shy about issues with race.”
“We have to make sure [Pittsburgh] is a most livable city for everyone,” Peduto said.
The luncheon started at noon with a speech from Chaz Kellem, the master of ceremonies for the event and manager of diversity initiatives for the Pittsburgh Pirates, followed by a speech from the CEO of YWCA greater Pittsburgh, Magdeline Jensen.
Edward Scott, who is a George Rowland White Endowed Professor in Accounting, won an award in the education category.
Scott was introduced by Kellem as a dedicated educator with a great commitment to diversity. In his speech, Scott thanked the students in his Accounting Career Awareness Program, a summer camp for minority students who are interested in the field of accounting.
“The proof is in the pudding,” Scott remarked about his students.
Besong received the award in the category of Public Safety. Kellem introduced Besong, saying he ensures an equitable work environment that is safe and inclusive.
“It’s truly an honor to work with professionals who understand how and when to police, and know how to respect others,” Besong said in his acceptance speech. “I am humbled and I accept the award on behalf of the public safety department and Point Park University.”
The ceremony ended with a speech made by Dina L. Clark, Senior Director of Equity and Advocacy.
“The only thing that should be separated by color is laundry,” Clark said, ending the award ceremony.
