Personnel Cabinet
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 
Kentucky Personnel Cabinet
Office of the Secretary

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Crystal Pryor
502-517-6046

The Commonwealth Celebrates Black History Month
Eleanor Jordan and Dr. Timothy E. Findley, Named Louis H. Coleman, Jr. Torch Award Recipients

FRANKFORT, KY (February 17, 2009) – Today the commonwealth paid tribute to Black History Month during the “Making History by Serving the People” celebration hosted by the Personnel Cabinet, Office of Diversity and Equality. The event, which was held at the Transportation Cabinet Auditorium, featured keynote speaker Alvin Herring, CEO, Side by Side, and recognized two recipients of the Louis H. Coleman, Jr. Torch Award. 

This year marked the first annual Torch Award presentation. Recipients were announced for both public and private sector professionals. The awards are named after the late Louis H. Coleman, Jr. who dedicated his life to challenging public servants to uphold equal opportunity for all through inclusive policies and practices.

Recipients are recognized for exemplary advocacy efforts, as well as development and implementation of innovative diversity and equality projects in the workplace. Mrs. Etta Coleman, wife of late Mr. Coleman, was present to congratulate the award recipients. She received a letter from Gov. Beshear recognizing the establishment of the annual award and expressing appreciation for her husband's contributions to the commonwealth.

Eleanor Jordan, executive director of the Kentucky Commission on Women, was selected as the public sector recipient. She was recognized for her commitment to providing equal opportunity to all persons and for her courageous and inspirational leadership.

Timothy E. Findley, Ed.D., division director of Diversity and Inclusion at Norton Healthcare, was selected as the private sector recipient. Dr. Findley was nominated for his work developing and implementing diversity training at Norton and promotion of diversity initiatives in strategic planning, supply chain management and leadership performance objectives. 

“In honor of Rev. Coleman’s legacy advocating for justice and equality, we wanted to recognize those who protect our rights in the workplace,” said Michelé Lawlis, executive director of the Office of Diversity and Equality in the Personnel Cabinet. “These torch bearers have committed themselves to the daily pursuit of creating equal employment opportunities for all.”

A proclamation from Gov. Beshear recognized February 17, 2009 as “Black History Recognition Day” in the commonwealth.

For additional information on the Personnel Cabinet, Office of Diversity and Equality and the Louis H. Coleman, Jr. Torch Award visit http://personnel.ky.gov/diversity/. 

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