Students win awards for promoting diversity in residence facilities

March 30, 2006

George Smith, a junior psychology major from Memphis, Tenn., and Ana Metallo, a graduate health administration major from Tampa, Fla., were selected as the Department of Housing and Residence Education Multicultural Student Award recipients for 2006.

Both students were chosen based on their contributions to promoting diversity and multiculturalism within UF residence facilities. The UF Department of Housing and Residence Education Multicultural Student Award recognizes and honors student leaders in residence facilities from various cultures including African-American, Hispanic, Native-American and Asian-American who actively support UF’s commitment to promoting diversity and multiculturalism by providing quality programs to residents.

Smith, a resident assistant in Rawlings Hall, was an active committee member for The Writing on the Wall Project and took on the most challenging and demanding tasks including monitoring the wall during overnight shifts and brick moving. According to nomination materials, Smith was the true heart of the project and was the most articulate about why he chose to be involved. On an ongoing basis throughout the year, Smith educated his residents about multicultural issues through role modeling, bulletin boards and programs.

Metallo, Weaver Hall director, was nominated for her work with residents living in the International House at Weaver Hall. Through her work ethic and devotion to multiculturalism, Metallo implemented programs such as the Chinese New Year and the bi-annual International People Extravaganza, programs that educate and socialize the Weaver community. Metallo’s programs have flourished beyond expectations, and she has proved that it is possible for one person to create a multicultural and inclusive community for UF students.

Nominees for the award may be undergraduates, graduates, or professional students living in UF residence facilities who have excelled and significantly contributed to the housing community. The Annual University of Florida Multicultural Awards Ceremony was held March 29 in the Grand Ballroom of the Reitz Student Union.