FOCUS Pittsburgh Director to Keynote Sold-Out Spirit of Diversity Dinner

For the second consecutive year, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion (ODI) will host a sold out Spirit of Diversity Dinner and Scholarship Benefit.

The event, slated for Friday, April 28, honors University students who are committed to academic excellence, diversity and inclusion. The Spirit of Diversity event also provides an opportunity for members of the campus community and region to listen to and engage in discussion about current multicultural and social justice issues.

The Rev. Paul Abernathy, director of FOCUS Pittsburgh, an Orthodox Christian non-profit focused on human development in the Hill District, will deliver the keynote address at the dinner. “He (Abernathy) is widely respected and recognized by many for his positive spirit, his collective efforts and the impact he has had on our region,” said Jeff Mallory, director of diversity and inclusion.

Abernathy is highly regarded for his work in revitalizing surrounding communities. During his tenure at FOCUS Pittsburgh, the non-profit has distributed hundreds of thousands of dollars in food, clothing, furniture, transportation assistance, identification and emergency relief to the Greater Pittsburgh Community, including a Back Pack Feeding Program that provides food to 2,500 children every weekend during the school year.

“The Spirit of Diversity Dinner and Scholarship Benefit is a significant occasion for our office and the University as it relates to the many wonderful partnerships and relationships we are privileged to have and be a part of,” explained Mallory.

The event kicks off with a reception at 5 p.m., followed by dinner at 6 p.m. The proceeds will help provide scholarship funds to University students.

“It’s important that we remain mindful of diverse perspectives among us and that we continue to find ways to highlight and uplift them,” said Mallory. “We are deeply excited for this event and humbled by our ability to bring a variety of different individuals together.”

For more information, email satterwhitea@duq.edu.or or call 412.396.1117.