Sconyers, Chval recognized for exemplary contributions

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Officials from the University of Missouri’s Division of Inclusion, Diversity and Equity have selected two MU students, one faculty member, one staff member and one organization to receive 2016 Mizzou Inclusive Excellence Awards. The Mizzou Inclusive Excellence Awards are given to individuals or groups who have made exemplary contributions to any area of diversity within the past two years, including but not limited to issues of gender, racial-ethnic background, language, religious belief, sexual orientation, abilities and disabilities, national and geographical origin, and economic strata.

Diversity and inclusion are not just about demographics. Inclusion is crucial to carry out the university’s mission of providing all Missourians with a world-class research university through better teaching, research, public service and economic development. Excellence in inclusion can be seen through individual support of community members and influence in systemic changes that benefit our campus as a whole. It is reflected in the classroom through curriculum, research and intellectual discussion as well as campus climate, recruitment and retention of students, faculty and staff.

Ta’janette Sconyers is a doctoral candidate in the counseling psychology program in the College of Education. Born in Chicago and raised in Howardville, Mo., Ta’janette takes pride in her identity as a first generation student of color from a low-income background. It is because of this identity that she knows first-hand how it feels to be “othered” or excluded; thus, it is her everyday goal to promote and practice inclusion in her academic, personal and professional roles. Sconyers is now a graduate assistant with The Bridge, a new diversity and equity initiative in the College of Education which seeks to give all students a better understanding of social justice perspectives and obligations.

Kathryn Chval is the acting dean of the College of Education and a professor of mathematics education. Prior to joining MU in 2003, Chval was the acting section head for the Teacher Professional Continuum Program at the National Science Foundation (NSF). She has directed or co-directed research teams that received nearly $21 million in funding and has been the recipient of the prestigious NSF Early Career Award. Chval’s research utilizing innovative head-mounted cameras has informed the use of strategies to influence social processes and outcomes for Latino/a English language learners.

Other College of Education nominees included Ambra Green, Jonathan Butler, The Bridge and Norma Jackson.

MU News Bureau release on the awards ceremony