The NAACP highlighted the achievements and excellence of members of the LSU community Thursday night at the second annual Image Awards, held at the Cox Communications Academic Center for Student Athletes.
Shavon Magee, NAACP president, said the awards recognize those who may be overlooked for the strides they have taken.
“We have to provide our community leaders with encouragement and let them know their progress has not gone uncharted,” Magee said.
Ralph Johnson, NAACP parliamentarian and Image Awards chairperson, said the planning for the event took three months.
“This year, we decided to move our celebration to Cox Communication building in an effort to accommodate a larger audience with greater comfort,” Johnson said.
Up till Dawn, the Black Student Union, College Democrats and Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity were among the top organizations awarded.
Brandon Smith accepted an award for Outstanding Student Leader of the Year, and awards on behalf of BSU programming and events.
Bonnie Alford was awarded Outstanding Student Adviser based on her work with BSU.
Katrice Albert racked up at the ceremony, receiving awards on behalf of the Office of Multicultural Affairs’ diversity programming, as well as the Outstanding Black Faculty award.
“Since my arrival at this University, I have hoped to be honored with an Image Award,” Albert said. “I am now honored to be a recipient”
Councilwoman and Mayor Pro Tempore Lorri Burgess also attended and received the award for Local Government Official of the Year.
“When I found out I was the recipient of an Image Award, I was both honored and surprised,” Burgess said. “It’s a humbling experience when people acknowledge what you do from the heart.”
Burgess said her public service work has been the most rewarding and eye-opening experience.
“Government impacts the quality of life in so many ways,” she said. “I strive to be the elected official that works for the greater good and improve the entire community’s quality of life.”
Finally, the President’s Award, chosen by the NAACP president, was given to Randy Guire, director of special projects.
“Dr. Randy has been there for me through many of my leadership struggles,” she said. “He is always honest about race and diversity issues, and one of the best people to talk about leadership and student involvement.”