The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis bestowed a National Award of Merit to Maryville University during its annual recognition event on June 1.
The National Award of Merit is given to businesses or individuals who have provided outstanding support to local clubs or to their mission.
The university received the award for its long-term dedication and commitment to the children of the community, according to Turan Mullins, assistant dean for diversity and inclusion at Maryville University.
“Winning the award makes us feel we are valued in the community and our efforts are appreciated,” says Mullins.
Congrats @MaryvilleU for being awarded the National Merit Award from @bgcstlouis! pic.twitter.com/uqLxGAxr4I
— Turan (@Mr_Mullins19) June 1, 2017
Maryville has partnered with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis on multiple projects throughout the past decade. These projects have included College and Me, Post-Secondary Readiness Program Overview and the Young Friends of the Club.
“The goal of the Post-Secondary program is to provide students from grades 5th through 12th with the foundation, tools, and resources to be successful in their post-secondary endeavors whether it be attending college or university, attending a trade school, joining the United States military, or entering the workforce,” says Mullins. “To ensure preparedness of each student, BGCSTL has established and implemented a framework to guide each club with developing programs and events that meet one or all of three outcomes.”
The College and Me program offers club members tours of Maryville University and activities while the Young Friends of the Club offers young professionals a chance to gather with peers who are dedicated to raising money and support for the club.
Maryville’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion also works with Girls Inc., Diversity Awareness Partnership, College Bound and other local groups.
“It is important that we as a university serve students in the region to help them understand their true potential and help them access resources to achieve their goals,” says Mullins. “We like to partner with organizations like these because of their ability to achieve student success and their holistic approach.”