Tapestry of Diversity and Inclusion Award
The Tapestry of Diversity and Inclusion Award is the highest distinction accorded to any employee or group of persons based on their contributions in fostering our institution’s mission as it relates to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The award celebrates the values of DEI on our campus by recognizing individuals or groups who have made exceptional contributions through their leadership, service and/or support activities at SUNY Oneonta.
Commissioned in the Spring of 2010, the artist, Ms. Haifa Bint-Kadi, described the Tapestry of Diversity Sculpture as, “… seven separate mosaic poles representing the unique cultures and races of the seven continents of the world, united by the larger mosaic pole sculpture.” It invites engagement, dialogue, and contemplation as one walks through the seven mosaic poles and the main pole. Banded with tapestry and weaving patterns from around the world, the central pole provides multicultural narratives acknowledging the core values of the TDIA as envisioned by the OEI and PCOD.
2025 Tapestry of Diversity Award Winner
Dr. Penina Kamina
On May 8, 2025, Dr. Kamina received a Tapestry of Diversity and Inclusion Award.
She is very grateful to her nominators, Shirley Clark, Loraine Tyler, and the UCOD subcommittee who made this possible. Also, she would like to thank the Office of Equity and Inclusion who organized a great celebration jointly with that of her role model and fellow awardee, Gretchen Sorin.
As a mathematics educator, she would like to give a shoutout to all who taught her diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice.
Past Recipients:
- Dale Capristo
- Trudy Thomas Smith
- Caridad Sousa
- Bernadette Tiapo
- Zanna McKay
- Maria Christina Montoya
- Emmanuel Woodland
- Pathy Leiva
- Melinda Brenna
- Maria Chaves Daza