The University of Michigan School of Dentistry’s Multicultural Affairs Committee (MAC) has received a major award from the University for its efforts to achieve a diverse and supporting environment at the School. 

MAC was one of five teams from the University’s campuses in Ann Arbor, Dearborn, and Flint to receive the Distinguished Diversity Leaders Award during ceremonies Oct. 16 at Palmer Commons on the Central Campus.  The award has been presented for the past four years to both individuals and teams by the Office of the Provost and University Human Resources.  Ten individuals also received the award.

Established in 1996, the Multicultural Affairs Committee works with students, staff, faculty, and patients from diverse backgrounds and cultures to help the School foster greater interpersonal awareness as well as achieve its multicultural and diversity objectives in education, patient care, and community service.

Dr. John Matlock, associate vice provost and executive director of the University’s Office of Academic Multicultural Initiatives, noted the MAC’s achievements, including establishing a subcommittee in 2001 to consider how to increase awareness in providing care for patients with special needs. 

He also mentioned that less than a year later, in January 2002, MAC began offering free continuing education noon-time courses that focus on providing care for patients with special needs. 

“It was so rewarding to know that the Multicultural Affairs Committee has been recognized outside the School of Dentistry for its contributions.  I’m proud of everyone in our group,” said Dr. Marita Inglehart, one of MAC’s co-chairs.  “It was also rewarding to hear about the contributions of the other University teams and the individuals.”

Cheryl Quiney, also a co-chair and dental care manager in the Office of Patient Services, said, “It’s encouraging to know that the programs and activities of the Multicultural Affairs Committee have been recognized.  The University’s acknowledgment of what we are doing will enable us to continue our many programs that include the Martin Luther King Day celebration, the Taste of Culture, cultural climate assessments, our education courses, and other initiatives.”

Individual recipients received a $1,000 award.  Each team award was $2,500.  Inglehart said the Committee may use the award to videotape future presentations and later post them on the School of Dentistry’s Web site where they can be viewed worldwide.