Schoolteacher, martial arts academy winners of Mundelein's 2015 Diversity Award
The village of Mundelein Human Relations Commission announced the recipients of the 2015 Diversity Award in two categories - individual and organization.
The awards celebrate the actions of individuals and organizations for extraordinary efforts in recognizing and embracing cultural diversity. Village of Mundelein Mayor Steve Lentz presented the awards.
This year's individual recipient was Gretchen Garza, a teacher at Carl Sandburg Middle School, and the 2015 business recipient was Keumgang Martial Arts Academy/Masters Mike Bolotnikov and Chris Flodstrom. The academy opened its doors in Mundelein in September 2013.
Carl Sandburg Principal Mark Pilut praised Garza for her efforts to engage all students.
"Gretchen is an outstanding educator who models the effort teachers must put forth to reach all students and engage them in learning. She has a huge heart and is a great listener.
"She knows what her kids and families need and helps them overcome hurdles, enabling them to achieve success. She makes a positive impact on the lives of students and makes Carl Sandburg Middle School a great place to learn," Pilut said.
In addition to her many accomplishments in the classroom, Garza takes a leadership role on the bilingual team at the school and makes concerted efforts to engage Latino families. According to information on her nomination form, "She is a strong, effective, and impactful leader at her school and in the Mundelein community."
Keumgang Martial Arts Academy's variety of programs places a strong emphasis on respect, self-esteem, self-confidence, anti-bullying, cultural awareness, and self-control not only at the academy, but also at home and school.
The organization's mission and programming is closely aligned to the HRC's mission - to serve as a resource to foster understanding on the value of diversity and respect for everyone.
The academy demonstrates a strong ability to create and follow through with projects and programs, and strives to contribute to the Mundelein community through charity, education, and mentorship.
"Keumgang Martial Arts Academy Masters, along with their students, perform charity work each month as a way to give back to the community; thus, instilling the values of good citizenship," nominator Debra Sebek said.
The Human Relations Commission began the Diversity Award Program in 2011 to honor individuals, businesses, and organizations for extraordinary efforts in recognizing and embracing cultural diversity. The announcement was made at the Jan. 26 village board meeting. A reception was held before the meeting.
The purpose of the commission is to assure that all residents are afforded the opportunity for mutual respect, cooperation, and understanding and to acknowledge the value of diversity within the community.
"Mundelein is a growing community rich in diversity and culture. There are many outstanding residents and organizations that greatly contribute to our quality of life," Commission Chair John Ramer said.
This is the fifth year the village has presented this award.