Dr. Abebe Teklu joined the School of Social Work and Human Services with the Faculty of Professional Studies on August 2, 2011, and was with the department until his death on January 9, 2013. Abebe was a model of self-determination, a value held highly in social work. He had completed his doctoral studies in less than 3 years; he was fluent in seven languages; he was a poet, a musician, and a philosopher. Abebe had overcome huge obstacles in his life. He was blinded at nine years of age due to smallpox. He was tortured and imprisoned for over a year. He fled his home in Ethiopia in 1985, leaving a teaching position, and walked about 2100 km to Sudan to escape the brutality of the military junta, the Dergue. Peace, harmony, and respect for human rights is a legacy that Abebe Abay Teklu lived and died by. He was a man filled with Grace. He “walked his talk”. The Dr. Abebe Abay Teklu Leadership Award is grounded in the African philosophy of Ubuntu which focuses on the allegiances and interconnectedness of all peoples.
AMOUNT: $250
AVAILABLE TO: The successful candidate will need to demonstrate the following:
- be enrolled within the School of Social Work and Human Services
- have a minimum GPA of 3.00
- supply verification of a disability through UFV's Disability Services office
- provide commentary outlining their passion in social justice in their walk and talk
- provide references demonstrating their enabling of positive living and overall inspiration to their community
HOW TO APPLY: Leadership Award Application form is available online at MyUFV, click on Student Information, click on Student Services, then the tab for Financial Aid.
DEADLINE: May 10