U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. – Several cadets and a faculty member were recognized for their individual and team efforts in support of the U.S. Air Force Academy’s diversity, equity and inclusion programs Aug. 16.
The diversity, equity and inclusion innovation awards recognize cadets, faculty and staff. Nominees are evaluated on their operational impact, innovation and inclusive leadership. Lt. Gen. Richard Clark, the Academy’s superintendent, presented the awards during the Tuesday ceremony in Mitchell Hall.
Cadet 3rd Class Camden Larsen, a geospatial sciences major from Grand Forks, North Dakota, is the cadet award winner; Dr. Sonia Esquivel, a Spanish language professor and advisor from Chihuahua, Mexico, took home the permanent party award; and the 29-member cadet wing diversity and inclusion program team received the team award.
“This award is an absolute honor and a charge to continue creating an inclusive culture at the Academy and across the Air Force,” Larsen said. “Inclusivity allows for unique perspectives that help create a more resilient force ready to defend the U.S.”
Of all his diversity-centered accomplishments, Larson said he’s most proud of his work with the Spectrum Club initiatives team.
“This work has been a tremendous honor,” he said.
Another accomplishment Larsen said he’s “particularly proud of” is working with cadets and staff across the base to increase awareness and understanding of Defense Department and Department of the Air Force policies and information concerning the school’s LGBTQ+ community.
Larsen calls diversity a “fundamental pillar to an effective military force.”
“We have an obligation to represent America and its diversity,” he said. “Our diversity allows us to be more effective, efficient and equitable not only in our jobs as military members, but also in the communities we call home.” . . . . (read the rest of the AFA press release)
Above photo: Lt. Gen. Richard Clark, the U.S. Air Force Academy’s superintendent (far left) and Dr. Joseph Looney, the Academy’s equity and inclusion officer (far right), pose for a photograph with award recipients during the diversity, equity and inclusion innovation awards ceremony, Aug. 16. The ceremony recognizes cadets, faculty and staff for their support of the Academy’s diversity and inclusion programs. Lt. Gen. Richard Clark, the U.S. Air Force Academy’s superintendent (far left) and Dr. Joseph Looney, the Academy’s equity and inclusion officer (far right), pose for a photograph with award recipients during the diversity, equity and inclusion innovation awards ceremony, Aug. 16. The ceremony recognizes cadets, faculty and staff for their support of the Academy’s diversity and inclusion programs.
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