The Alumni of Color Network is thrilled to invite you to the 5th Annual Evening of Celebration and Recognition on Monday, May 18, a gathering for alumni, parents/guardians, faculty, staff and students. The event honors an employee who has made an impact on DEB efforts and the Calhoun community at large.

We are excited to announce that this year's Lavern McDonald Award for Advocacy and Mentorship in Diversity will be presented to Upper School Coordinator Caroline Garcia-Then! The program also includes recognition of graduating students of color and DAB students (Diversity and Accountability Board), an alumni keynote address and performances.

6pm: Childcare Begins
6:30-7:30pm: Program (81st Street Theater)*
7:30-8:30pm: Refreshment and Reception (81st Street Commons)

RSVP

*Childcare provided during program for ages 3+

Alumni Keynote Speaker
Odetty Tineo '08
Director, Office of City Legislative Affairs

A self-described Harlem girl, Odetty understands the value of advocating for change in the city where she grew up. She currently serves as the Director of City Legislative Affairs under the Mamdani administration, a position she assumed in January.

Her work first began in the labor movement, interning with 32BJ SEIU's Youth Brigade while at Wesleyan University, where she majored in Latin American Studies, and returning as a coordinator. She later held key roles at the New York State Nurses Association, where she became the organization's downstate political director and helped nurses win a major victory in the battle for more favorable staffing levels. She spent four years serving as political and legislative director of District Council 37, where she helped secure the first major labor contract agreement reached under the Adams administration, which set an $18 minimum wage and locked in future raises.

About the Lavern McDonald Award

The Lavern McDonald Award for Advocacy and Mentorship in Diversity honors Calhoun employees past or present who have consistently contributed to the promotion of understanding critical issues related to diversity and equity in teaching and the mentoring of students. This includes (i) furthering Calhoun's DEI work and carrying out Calhoun's mission in this area that is central to our values; (ii) being an advocate and mentor for students with historically marginalized identities at Calhoun; and (iii) supporting Calhoun's community of color at large, in their lives both in and outside of the school walls. Nominations come from alumni, students and parents.

Questions? Contact Morgan Jenkins at morgan.jenkins@calhoun.org