2024 Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership and Service Awards

Dr. Steve Bisese
John D. Morgan Award for Lifetime Service            

Dr. Steve Bisese has been named the 2024 Omicron Delta Kappa John “Jack” D. Morgan Award for Lifetime Service recipient. The award, named for Executive Director Emeritus Jack Morgan, celebrates a member of the Society who has rendered outstanding and sustained service to Omicron Delta Kappa throughout his or her life to promote the highest interests of O∆K.

Dr. Bisese is a 1982 initiate of the William and Mary Circle, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree.  Steve has had a 40-year career in student development, with nearly 29 years spent at the University of Richmond, where he served as the Vice President for Student Development since 2006.

Dr. Bisese has been an ardent supporter of O∆K. He helped charter the Georgetown College Circle. He went on to serve as the National Vice President for Extension from 1998 to 2006, where he helped to establish 51 new circles. Dr. Bisese also served as the National President from 2006 to 2010. His commitment to O∆K did not end there; he continued to volunteer in a variety of roles, including search committee chair and the Board Awards committee.  In 2014, Steve received the Cheryl M. Hogle Distinguished Service Award, which honors a member of the society who has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to O∆K. In 2018, he was inducted as a member of the Five Star Society. In 2019, Steve was named an emeritus trustee.

Dr. Mary Howard-Hamilton
Robert L. Morlan – Robert Bishop Outstanding Circle Advisor Award                

Dr. Mary Howard-Hamilton has been named the 2024  Robert L. Morlan – Robert Bishop Outstanding Circle Advisor Award recipient. This award, named for two past national presidents of O∆K, recognizes an outstanding faculty advisor or circle coordinator who has served for at least three years.

Dr. Howard-Hamilton is a 1986 initiate of the University of North Carolina Charlotte Circle and is the Coffman Distinguished Professor and Chair of the Indiana State University Department of Educational Leadership, and serves as the Faculty Advisor for the ISU Circle.

William Adu-Mensah, a past ISU circle president, had this to say of his former advisor: “Dr. Hamilton’s contributions to our circle of OΔK have been nothing short of exemplary. Her leadership style is characterized by a rare combination of vision, empathy, and tireless advocacy for student success. She has consistently gone above and beyond her role as a faculty advisor, guiding us with wisdom, encouragement, and genuine care. She possesses a remarkable talent for recognizing and nurturing the unique strengths of each member, creating an inclusive and supportive environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to excel. Under her guidance, our chapter has thrived, producing meaningful projects and initiatives that have made a positive impact on our campus community.”

Dr. Shannon Blanton
Eldridge W. Roark, Jr. Meritorious Service Award              

Dr. Shannon Blanton has been named the 2024 Eldridge W. Roark, Jr. Meritorious Service Award recipient. This award, given since 195 and named for Eldridge W. Roark, a 1953 initiate of the Samford University Circle, a long-time student affairs leader at SUNY Plattsburgh, and the national president of Omicron Delta Kappa from 1990 until 1994, recognizes service to the society by furthering the purpose and goals of the Society through active leadership in a circle.

Dr. Blanton is a 2022 initiate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham Circle and has served as the dean of the UAB Honors College since 2014. She has served as the faculty advisor to the ODK circle at UAB since its revival after the COVID-19 pandemic. My-Linh Nguyen, president of the UAB ODK circle, said in her nomination letter: “Prior to 2021, the circle had been dormant for several years. Without Dr. Blanton’s leadership, the UAB circle would not be as prolific as it is today. There are currently 159 inducted members, and the circle continues to grow each year, garnering more and more attention from students at the university. Despite her busy schedule, Dr. Blanton always found the time to plan and attend each event. Furthermore, she goes above and beyond the general circle requirements to ensure that all members are able to grow and connect with each other at each meeting.”

Kenneth Fuchs | Pillar of Leadership – Creative and Performing Arts

Dr. Kenneth Fuchs has been named the 2024 Pillar of Leadership – Creative and Performing Arts recipient. Created in 2014, the Pillar of Leadership Awards lifetime members and other civic leaders who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in one of the five pillars of campus life, all of which are essential components of the OΔK Idea.

Dr. Fuchs is a 1977 initiate of the University of Miami Circle, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Music. He also earned a Master of Music and Doctor of Musical Arts degrees from The Juilliard School. He is a Professor of Music Composition at the University of Connecticut.

He is a Grammy award-winning composer and the first living composer to have his music recorded by the Sinfonia of London. Dr. Fuchs composes music for orchestras, bands, voice, chorus, soloists, and chamber ensembles and is recognized globally.

Judith Segura
Pillar of Leadership – Communications

Dr. Judith Sequra has been named the 2024 Pillar of Leadership – Communications recipient. Created in 2014, the Pillar of Leadership Awards lifetime members and other civic leaders who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in one of the five pillars of campus life, all of which are essential components of the OΔK Idea.

Dr. Segura is a 1991 initiate of the California State University, Fullerton, where she earned her bachelor of science degree in Mechanical Engineering and Physics. She also earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering from Stanford University.

Since 2008, she has worked as a thermal architect for Apple, Inc., helping to build products such as the iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, AirPods, and more. These products have literally changed how we communicate and consume information.  She also serves on the Board of Directors for NPR, “an independent, nonprofit media organization founded on a mission to create a more informed public.”  In addition, Dr. Segura has been an active advocate and mentor for young female engineers and students of color.

David Thrasher
Pillar of Leadership – Service to Campus and Community

Dr. David Thrasher has been named the 2024 Pillar of Leadership – Service to Campus and Community recipient. Created in 2014, the Pillar of Leadership Awards lifetime members and other civic leaders who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in one of the five pillars of campus life, all of which are essential components of the OΔK Idea.

Dr. Thrasher is a is a 1971 initiate of Auburn University, where he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Wildlife and Fisheries Biology. He then went on to medical school at the University of Alabama Medical Center, where he focused on pulmonary medicine. Currently, he is on the faculty at The Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Throughout his life, Dr. Thrasher has been committed to his community, including serving on the board of directors of the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, Boys and Girls Club, and Boy Scouts of America as well as serving as the president of the Alabama Wildlife Federation. In February of 2020, Dr. Thrasher began studying COVID-19. Within a month, his medical Group, Montgomery Pulmonary Consultants, saw their first COVID-19 patient. Although he had planned to retire, Dr. Thrasher postponed it to help with this critical situation. His nominator wrote, “he is credited with saving thousands of lives from COVID-19. Moreover, his efforts to push antibody infusions saved the hospitals in Central Alabama from being overrun at the very peak of the crisis. In addition, his media appearances and writings helped to communicate to thousands of people the facts about COVID-19 in the face of the misinformation then being spread among unwary citizens.” He became a recognized expert, appearing on NBC-TV, CNN, MSNBC, WSFA-TV, and ABC-TV, as well as numerous radio stations, and was widely quoted in print media.

Howard Smith | Andristine M. Robinson Champion Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity

Dr. Howard Smith has been named the 2024 Andristine M. Robinson Champion Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity recipient. The award is named in honor of emerita trustee and former National Vice President Andristine Robinson. It is presented annually to an individual, circle, institution, or program that has demonstrated or fostered a welcoming and inclusive environment that promotes diversity and inclusion within O∆K circles or nationally.

Dr. Smith is a 2020 initiate of the University of Lynchburg Circle where he earned his Doctor of Medical Services degree. He recieved his Bachelor of Science from Hahnemann University and his Master of Physican Assistant Students – Family Medicine.  Dr. Smith currently serves as the Chief of Pediatric Medicine at the Southwest Community Health Center in Bridgeport, Connecticut.

His nominator said, “His care to patients is outstanding, his commitment to the community, as demonstrated by working his total professional career in an FQHC, serving underserved and vulnerable populations throughout the US, speaks to his core values as a human and health care provider. He is multilingual, empathic and a caring individual. He has worked with local, state and federal agencies on diversity and equity. As Chief of Pediatrics at Southwest CHC, he mentors, trains, and recruits a diverse staff. All patients love his care and his colleagues respect him.”

Francis Samonte
O∆K Community Commitment Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity

Dr. Francis Samonte has been named the 2024 O∆K Community Commitment Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity recipient.  The award honors those individual members who consistently promote an inclusive campus and/or community; demonstrate an ongoing commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusivity; and show an appreciation for the fact that diversity is integral to healthy and productive communities.

Dr. Samonte is a 2012 initiate of the Johns Hopkins University Circle, where he attended an Advanced Academic Program Certification. He earned his Bachelor of Arts at Boston College and Hebrew University of Jerusalem. He received his Doctor of Medicine degree from De LaSalle University and his Doctor of Philosophy from the University of the Philippines. Dr. Samonte is currently a Cognitive-Behavioral Research Scientist at Boston University’s School of Public Health.

His nominator wrote, “Over the past several years, I have had the chance to work closely with Dr. Samonte in the community in the Philippines where he has served with tremendous distinction in helping indigenous communities develop a sustainable plan to address the critical needs in neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative conditions. As you know these areas of expertise are lacking not only in the US (where he resides) but especially here in the Philippines where there is a tremendous gap in healthcare and treatment resources.”

Baili Park
O∆K Emerging Advocate Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity

Baili Park has been named a recipients of one of the 2024 O∆K Emerging Advocate Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity. The award recognizes the contributions of young, under the age of 40, members of Omicron Delta Kappa who promote the need for a more just, diverse, equitable, and inclusive world.

Baili is a 2023 initiate of the University of Maryland, College Park Circle where she earned her Master of Arts in Higher Education, Student Affairs, and International Education Policy. She recieved her Bachelor of Arts in Justice and Peace Studies at Georgetown University.

Her nominator wrote, “Baili’s commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive educational environment is evident through her collaborative efforts with the College of Education’s Chief Diversity Officer to establish affinity groups for graduate students. These affinity groups provide a space for students to connect, share experiences, and support one another, contributing to a sense of belonging and community within the College of Education. Furthermore, in her role at Bias Incident Support Services within the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, Baili goes above and beyond to address biases and promote inclusivity on campus. She conducts trainings, such as “Stop the Hate” sessions, to educate students, faculty, and staff on recognizing and preventing biases and bias incidents.”

Royale Randall
O∆K Emerging Advocate Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity

Royale Randall has been named a recipients of one of the 2024 O∆K Emerging Advocate Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity. The award recognizes the contributions of young, under the age of 40, members of Omicron Delta Kappa who promote the need for a more just, diverse, equitable, and inclusive world.

Royale is a 2023 initiate of the Agnes Scott College Circle where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Sociology/Anthropology. She is currently pursuing her Master of Arts in Teaching in Elementary Education at Mercer University.

Her nominator wrote, While at Agnes Scott College, Royale consistently shows innovation and an unconditional dedication in both creating inclusive environments and promoting diversity. Rue’s commitment in ensuring individuals from all backgrounds are represented earned her a position as a Youth Leader for the NAACP, and a position on the student advisory board for the 100 Dream Fund where she organizes events to provide scholarships for womxn of all origins. Identifying as a black woman from a low-income background, Royale has brought her lived and work experience to champion for the needs of students in meetings with the ODK National Board of Trustees. Most recently, she has been working on an initiative to make ODK fees financially accessible to all students.

Justin Ian Sia
O∆K Emerging Advocate Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity

Justin Ian Sia has been named a recipients of one of the 2024 O∆K Emerging Advocate Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity. The award recognizes the contributions of young, under the age of 40, members of Omicron Delta Kappa who promote the need for a more just, diverse, equitable, and inclusive world.

Justin is a 2016 initiate of the Emory University Circle, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. He recieved his Juris Doctor degree from Loyala University Chicago School of Law. Justin is an attorney practicing nonprofit corporate law at a civil rights law firm in Chicago.

Justin has a proven track record of advancing LGBTQ+ inclusion in our society through active policy advocacy. For example, he advocated for gender-inclusive multi-stall restrooms across Illinois, which were banned.  As a result, HB 1286 was signed into law in 2023. In addition, he helped lead the campaign to create Chicago’s first Asian American majority ward for representation on the Chicago City Council.