University staff members and students were recognized at a ceremony Feb. 28 as recipients of this year’s Black Girls Rock Awards, honoring staff and faculty of color for their significant contributions to the Westfield State community and beyond.
Those receiving plaques are either Black or identify with their African American ancestry and have gone above and beyond the call of duty. This year’s plaque recipients are: Monique Lopez of the Office of the Registrar, Sarah Lazare of the Banacos Academic Center, Associate Professor of Communication Shirley Acquah, Ph.D.; seniors Zuleyka Contreras-Joubert, Kiara Dade, and Miriam Opare; and junior Ebone Donawa.
In addition, at the ceremony several students received certificates of appreciation as rising stars for their student leadership efforts. Those recognized were: Allianna Agbanyo, Beverly Appiah, Rebecca Brice,
Divine Builou, Kymberlee Cameron, Sharissa Darkoah, Emmanuela Frimpong, Rose Claire Guillaume, Destiny Hernandez, Benedicta Kwade, Simone Laplant, Alexis Lee, Chinanu Onuoha, Sidilene Pereira Da Veiga, and Priscilla Rucks-Smith.