"Nia Awards 2023" (Nia is a swahili word meaning "purpose"). Text is over a teal, red, and yellow gradient circle and sand-colored background.

Nia Awards 

The Nia Awards recognize NYU community members for their efforts in promoting inclusion, belonging, and social justice at NYU and beyond. Each year, the Center for Multicultural Education and Programs (CMEP) invites students, staff, administrators, faculty, and alumni to honor the award recipients who exemplify Nia, a Swahili word meaning 'purpose.'

We received a host of nominations and are excited to announce this year's awardees. Please join us in congratulating the following recipients of the 2023 Nia Awards:

Community Building and Advocacy Student Award

Iván Brea, College of Arts and Science

Aiyana J. Coard, School of Professional Studies

Creating Inclusion and Belonging Staff and Administrator Award

Richeleen Dashield, Silver School of Social Work

Teaching for Social Change Faculty Award

Adedamola Osinulu, Liberal Studies

Michael Parkes Distinguished Alumni Award

Andy C. Ng, Liberal Studies, College of Arts and Science


Join us for the ceremony!

2023 Nia Award recipients will be honored at a ceremony on Thursday, April 20, at 5:00 p.m. ET. Come celebrate in community and register to attend!

Two people holding a clear glass diamond shaped award, smiling against a gold and white drapery backdrop.

2017 Nia Awards Ceremony