Derrick bell legacy award

“Courage is a decision you make to act in a way that works through your own fear for the greater good as opposed to pure self-interest for what you believe is right.”

— Derrick A. Bell

Ethical Ambition: Living a Life of Meaning and Worth

The Derrick Bell  Legacy Award honors critical race theorists (CRT), critical race studies scholars, and progressive educators-activists committed to advancing social justice and educational race equity through their teaching, research, writing, and/or direct community action. Positive actions that illuminate our insight into racial injustice and the human condition require courage and commitment and are worthy of respect and acknowledgement. This award recognizes individuals whose career accomplishments demonstrate personal courage and professional commitment to supporting and advocating for the “faces at the bottom of the well.”

Awardees

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Awardees -

Awardees

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Awardees -

2025 📍Detroit, MI


Dr. Cheryl E. Matias

2023 📍chicago, IL


Dr. Erica Davila

2022 📍Edwardsville, IL


DR. WILLIAM A. SMITH

DR. ROBIN L. HUGHES

DR. T. ELON DANCY

2021 📍newark, de


Dr. DENISE TALIAFERRO BASZILE

Dr. JAMEL K. DONNOR

Dr. MICHAEL A. OLIVAS

2019 📍LOS ANGELES, CA


Dr. MARY LOUISE FRAMPTON

Dr. LINDSAY PÉREZ HUBER

2018 📍NEW MEXICO


DR. KEVIN JOHNSON

DR. CHARLES MILLS

2016 📍Denver, CO


DR. CHRISTINE ZUNI CRUZ

2015


DR. DOLORES DELGADO BERNAL

DR. ADRIENNE DIXSON

2014


DR. OSAMUDIA JAMES

2013


DR. LAURENCE PARKER


2012

DR. DAVID GILLBORN

DR. GLORIA LADSON-BILLINGS

DR. KIMBERLE W. CRENSHAW

DR. RICHARD DELGADO

DR. MARI J. MATSUDA

DR. WILLIAM RICHARDSON

DR. MARVIN LYNN