On Sunday, October 9, 2022, the Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) announced the establishment of a new award and its inaugural recipient. The Dr. H. Lawrence McCrorey Award recognizes a faculty or staff member of color who demonstrates a commitment to Inclusive Excellence for those from underrepresented and marginalized backgrounds and whose work shows a legacy of effort toward equity, justice, and inclusion. This year’s award was presented to Beverly Belisle, Director of UVM’s Mosaic Center for Students of Color.

Dr. Amer F. Ahmed, Vice Provost for DEI presented the award at the Andrew Harris Legacy Reception, an annual event named after UVM’s first African American graduate that honors the legacy and work of UVM community members who have inspired and strengthened diversity, equity, and inclusion on our campus. The 2022 reception specifically looked at the legacy of H. Lawrence (Larry) McCrorey, former UVM professor and dean whose influence and dedication to combating racism has had a lasting impact on the University community.

Belisle has been working at UVM since 2000. As the Director of the Mosaic Center for Students of Color, she facilitates the center’s mission to enable the holistic success of students of color in a predominantly white educational setting. Belisle also leads a staff of professionals who are devoted to developing culturally sensitive, equitable, and empowering practices that benefit the student of color community. Having known Larry McCrorey personally, this award was even more of an honor to Bev. “To be in anything in his legacy is just fabulous and fantastic,” Bev shared via video message during Sunday’s reception. “I thank you for thinking of me…it's just been a wonder and an honor to be part of the team here at UVM. That's meant everything.”

This annual award is made possible by the H. Lawrence McCrorey Endowment, which supports campus initiatives that focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Gifts to this fund can be made through the University of Vermont Foundation.