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The WOCI Atlanta Collaborative in Higher Education, a strategic alliance encompassing prominent institutions such as the Center for Women at Emory, Clark Atlanta University, Georgia Tech’s Office of Minority Educational Development (OMED), Emory University Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Spelman College Women Research and Resource Center, STEM Atlanta Women, Inc, Women’s Resource Center at Georgia Tech, and MiTek, comprises a comprehensive network dedicated to the advancement of women across industry, research, and higher education. Women of Color Initiative Awards are given each year to students, faculties, staff and community leaders who have made significant contributions towards social justice, advocacy, higher education, scholarly achievements, or and/or building communities. of upliftment. Nominees gathered at Georgia Institute of Technology to celebrate the tremendous achievements participants have done over within  Atlanta.

Associate Dean Beth Michel was honored to receive Women of Color Initiative (WOCI) Outstanding Atlanta Staff Impact Award. She noted that she did not receive this award alone but on behalf of the colleagues working with her. 

Dean Michel reflected on how wonderful it was to be among fellow women passionate about their work. One of her favorite experiences was the brunch communed by all the finalists and other participants of the event. Women ate and shared their effects in their communities, aspirations for growth, and methods of collaboration. Emory Alas de un Mismo Pájaro, a Latinx performing and education dance group, performed during the award celebrations.

Dr. Malinda Lowery, Cahoon Family Professor of American History, shares her time with Dean Michel, “Beth is a trusted and generous leader. I am beyond thrilled that she has received this long overdue recognition for her work at Emory and in the Atlanta community. It demonstrates her remarkable impact.”

The most important thing Beth wanted others to take away from her experience is the vitality of community. She did not arrive at the podium alone but alongside the effects of her department, colleagues, students, and many others who strive with like-minded goals of the future. Ms. Beth urges others to find those communities to build themselves and others up.