Awards

The Nyumburu Cultural Center confers these two awards at the Annual University Student Leadership Awards program each year, recognizing and celebrating the outstanding achievements of our student leaders and scholars. 

The John B. Slaughter Outstanding Senior Award is named after Dr. John B. Slaughter who served as Chancellor (President) of the University from 1982 to 1988. The award is presented to a senior who has been active on the campus in support of the African Diaspora, has been an advocate for the needs of students, and has an outstanding academic career.

James Otis Williams served the university for 26 years, serving as the director of the Nyumburu Cultural Center for 25 years. Williams touched the lives of thousands of students, faculty, and staff, as a professional and friend during his long tenure at the university. The James Otis Williams Cultural Leadership Award recognizes a student who has demonstrated outstanding leadership, dedication to cultural awareness of the African Diaspora, and a commitment to higher education for students.