3 student activists commended at social justice awards ceremony

Eastern Connecticut State University's annual Equity and Social Justice Awards recognized three student activists for their commitment to civil rights and advocacy for marginalized groups. The ceremony took place on Feb. 20 in the Fine Arts Instructional Center's Susan Sukman McCray Foyer.

President Karim Ismaili delivered opening remarks, stating that the awards were not ideologically or politically based, but founded on principles that apply in everyday life. 

“At Eastern, advancing equity and social justice is embedded in our culture,” said Ismaili. “What stands out about each of these students is not only what they have accomplished, but how they’ve gone about it. They have shown up, listened, and acted with care.” 

The ceremony was decorated with musical performances, including a rendition of Michael Jackson's "Man in the Mirror" by Eastern's United Voices of Praise and concluding with a live performance by jazz guitarist Asa "Ace" Livingston. 

Intercultural Center ambassador Nyla Graham '26 facilitated the ceremony and presented awards to each winner. “Equity and social justice awards are among the ways Eastern recognizes, uplifts, and celebrates the incredible social justice work being done by our students,” she said. 

“These are students who are not just talking about change but actively creating it within our campus and beyond.”

Senior health sciences major Mariangel Duran Galvis was presented with the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award. In her acceptance speech, she remarked that leadership is about service rather than authority. 

“To be recognized in the name of someone whose legacy represents courage, justice, and unwavering faith in humanity is deeply meaningful to me,” she said. “There were moments where I felt different, uncertain, and unsure,but those experiences shaped me.” 

Sophomore health sciences major Gabrielle Hendricks was presented with the Cesar Chavez Award. According to her, advocating for others means opening doors rather than waiting for opportunities. 

“Leadership isn’t always loud. Sometimes it’s quiet consistency, listening without judgment, and holding people accountable with care,” she said.  

Hendricks is inspired by occurrences like the ceremony as she looks to her future: “Beyond Eastern, I will continue doing the work I believe God has placed me here to do — to serve, to uplift, and to lead with purpose.” 

Senior criminology major Yeinmy Pinales won the Ella T. Grasso Award. Her advocacy is heavily influenced by her experience as an immigrant, and she dedicated her award to everyone who has entered the country hoping to make a difference. 

“I carry this award as motivation to continue fighting for dignity, access, and justice for immigrant communities,” she said. “This award belongs to every dreamer, every first-generation student, and every family who crossed borders with hope in their hands.”