On Nov. 11, Vice President for Diversity, Inclusion and Strategic Initiatives, Dr. David Pilgrim, received the Rhae-Ann Booker Award for Inclusive Excellence.
The presentation of the award was hosted at the JW Marriott in Grand Rapids, in the Grand Rapids Chamber, during an event highlighting leadership within the field of diversity and inclusion.
Pilgrim is the vice president of Diversity, Inclusion and Strategic Initiatives at Ferris State University. He is best known as the founder of the Jim Crow museum and his published works on social justice. He briefly mentioned why he thinks his work was specifically selected for this award.
It was presented because of the work establishing the Jim Crow museum and his role as Ferris State’s vice president for Diversity, Inclusion and Strategic Initiatives.
Pilgrim expressed his excitement to be a part of Ferris State’s journey. When asked about his work at Ferris State, he reflected on what the founders of the university initially started.
“We didn’t build this university – we inherited it,” Pilgrim said. “I just happen to be a part of that story.”
Pilgrim further explained that our founder set out to create a place that welcomed people from many backgrounds, and we are simply carrying that work forward.
Pilgrim receiving this award continues the shaping of a university where belonging isn’t just something that is talked about but something that shows up in our decisions, policies and how we treat each other every day.
Pilgrim elaborated on what the award means to him personally and professionally.
“It inspires me to advance equity, speak up even when it’s hard, and help build spaces where everyone is heard and valued,” Pilgrim said.
Pilgrim expressed that being connected to Dr. Booker’s legacy is an honor and a responsibility he carries with pride and purpose.
He explained what the award specifically celebrates to him personally. He also recognized that the recognition he receives reflects the commitment and dedication of many others involved at the university.
“This award to me celebrates the important diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging work that so many people at Ferris are involved in,” Pilgrim said. “I was honored, in large part, because that award is named after Dr. Rhae Ann Booker, whose life exemplified courage, integrity and a steadfast commitment to justice. In a world that is not always kind, she led with genuine warmth and compassion.”
When talking about his plans for continued work in diversity, equity and inclusion, he remained adamant about the future.
“We are committed to keeping our DEI and belonging work moving forward at Ferris State,” Pilgrim said.
Pilgrim also mentioned that by strengthening our culture of belonging, we are creating more opportunities for learning and dialogue and making sure our policies and practices reflect the inclusive community Ferris was built to be.
He expanded on what the award means for the rest of the community and what he thinks it will bring.
“What I hope to gain from this award is simply the opportunity to bring more visibility to the DEI and belonging work we’re doing at Ferris,” Pilgrim said.
The message Pilgrim hopes students and the Ferris community take from him receiving this award is to support DEI. He also hopes that people keep creating a safe and welcoming environment for all.
“In recent years, it didn’t take much courage to say you supported diversity, equity, inclusion and civil rights,” Pilgrim said. “Now, we are called to support not to convenience, but to conviction.”
He expressed how all of us need to work together to create spaces where every member of the Ferris community is welcomed.
Pilgrim is excited to continue his work at the university, upholding the core values of DEI.