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Nearly 200 Ramblers walked the maroon carpet this May as Loyola’s Office of Institutional Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (OIDEI) hosted another memorable READI Awards Brunch and Celebration. The annual Oscar- and Emmy-inspired event recognizes the people and partnerships driving a more inclusive university.
“Recognition is not just about celebration,” said Dominique Jordan Turner, vice president of Institutional Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and chief diversity officer. “It is about pausing to acknowledge the care and intentional effort that strengthens our community every day.”
Rooted in the theme of gratitude, this year’s celebration opened with remarks from Patricia Findley, dean of the School of Social Work, who reflected on the value of Loyola’s recent campus climate survey. Findley emphasized that data becomes meaningful when it illuminates the lived experiences and needs of the community, enabling leaders to respond thoughtfully, strategically, and with care.
A highlight of the afternoon was the introduction of Gratitude Awards and Golden MVP Statues, giving colleagues a meaningful opportunity to recognize one another’s impact in personal and heartfelt ways. The room filled with laughter, reflection, and deep appreciation.
“In a time when this work is particularly meaningful, our presence, partnership, and persistence matter,” said Turner. “Thank you for all you do to build belonging across our campus.”
2026 READI Impact Award Winners
This year’s award winners included schools or units leading the way in strategy, collaboration, community outreach, and making a difference through policy change.
Ally in Action Award: The Office for Institutional Research and Analysis (OIRA) was presented with our 2026 Ally in Action Award, a special recognition for partners who have advanced, championed, and brought to life our mission in ways that help both our office and Loyola move from READI strategy to meaningful impact. OIRA has been an invaluable partner in the collection, analysis, and sharing of our campus climate survey data. Their expertise has helped transform information into insight and insight into action.
Catalyst Award: The Department of Residence Life received an award for implementing a meaningful policy change impacting our students. They reimagined their process through a more equitable lens, resulting in a new fee structure that removed a critical barrier to accessing on-campus housing.
Co-Conspirator Award: Scholars Programs was recognized for creating a strong ecosystem of support for Loyola’s first-generation students. Through intentional, university-wide collaboration, this team has strengthened coaching and academic support for scholars, resulting in graduation rates that exceed Loyola’s average by 20 percent.
Community Award: The Center for Urban Research and Learning received recognition for advancing equity and justice beyond Loyola’s walls through community work that directly engages our students. They have led and assisted with efforts to address housing stability, navigating the legal system, and expanding access to quality employment.
Contemplatives in Action Award: The School of Law was recognized for demonstrating a mission-aligned commitment to ensuring students, faculty, and staff feel valued, supported, and a true sense of belonging. They strengthen student success through innovative programming such as bar preparation support and more than 20 courses focused on systems of oppression.
For more information about the READI Awards and OIDEI’s work, visit the OIDEI website.
